SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 23:00 Min.
Initially broadcast by The Cartoon Network on April 7, 2010, Michael Chang directed this Paul Dini-scripted episode. In the unrelated pre-credits opening sequence, Batman teams with a fellow Justice Leaguer, sorceress Zatanna Zatara, to thwart Abra Kadabra’s devious museum heist.
In the main storyline, Batman finally closes in on Joe Chill’s identity re: the thug who murdered his parents in cold blood years before. Observing Batman’s nightmarish obsession, the Spectre and the Phantom Stranger, meanwhile, conduct an enigmatic wager. Does Batman pursue lethal vengeance, or will he opt for another form of fitting justice?
Not only does Batman pursue a decrepit Chill, but what happens after the Dark Knight’s enemies realize who unwittingly inspired his never-ending war on Gotham City’s criminal underworld?
Batman: Diedrich Bader
Phantom Stranger: Kevin Conroy
Spectre: Mark Hamill
Zatanna Zatara: Jennifer Hale
Lew Moxon: Diedrich Bader
Joe Chill: Peter Onorati
Dr. Thomas Wayne: Adam West
Martha Wayne: Julie Newmar
Bruce Wayne (child): Zachary Gordon
Abra Kadabra: Jeff Bennett
REVIEW:
In terms of Batman’s animated history, “Chill of the Night!” serves up brilliant storytelling in this rare exploration of the Dark Knight’s origin. The guest presence of Bat-veterans Kevin Conroy, Adam West, Julie Newmar, & Mark Hamill alone makes watching this insightful episode special. Hence, adult fans won’t be disappointed.
Parents, however, need to beware that this episode’s surprisingly dark content is inappropriate for pre-elementary school kids. Specifically, multiple inferences re: cold-blooded-murder and lethal vigilantism/retribution should have merited a parental advisory.
Though “Chill of the Night!” utilizes the program’s kiddie TV animation – its plot is strictly PG-13 material. In that sense, this episode is something of a deception, given the obvious primary target audience.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 9 Stars (for adults & teens)
