SUMMARY:
Produced by Mattel, this limited-edition figure was released in approximately 2013 — prior to the 1966-68 TV series’ fiftieth anniversary. This 6-inch figure represents Adam West’s distinctive likeness as the iconic Caped Crusader. All the trademark costume details are present, down to the squiggly light blue eyebrows on the darker blue mask. A matching dark blue fabric cape attached to his neck can be adjusted as necessary.
In terms of articulation: 1. Batman can nod and turn his head slightly left or right. 2. The arms have 360-degree rotations, as do his wrists. His waist also turns 360-degrees below the utility belt. 3. His torso slightly bends, which creates the effect of Batman staring down or hunched over. 4. The elbows, knees, and ankles are jointed for additional mobility. 5. The arms and legs are relatively nimble to simulate running (even the splits), swimming, sitting, or even some Bat-climbing action. 6. For display stands it might fit, this Batman has the necessary peg holes in the bottom of his skinny feet.
Trivia Note: West’s TV series popularized Batman’s yellow-and-black bat insignia, which had recently been introduced by DC Comics.
REVIEW:
As impressive as this figure is (at first glance), the obvious concern are its flimsy elbow and knee joints, which matches the figure’s disappointingly lightweight frame. If this Batman’s easily-breakable joints had been made even a little thicker, the odds of long-term durability would improve before it’s time for super-glue. Otherwise, as its packaging states, this figure isn’t built for kiddie playtime. At least, this Batman can easily stand up in long-term display poses. For nostalgia collectors, it’s been a long wait re: quality Batman 1966 merchandise, and this novelty figure’s faithful look justifies its place in any Bat-collection.
Note: A fun variant exists — it’s the wacky ‘Surf’s Up’ Batman sporting a pair of colorful yellow-and-white Bermuda shorts over his Bat-costume, along with a surfboard accessory to go catch some Bat-waves. Further, this Batman and Burt Ward’s Robin were also released as a hard-to-find deluxe set with a Mattel Batmobile.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
An extra is a collector’s trading card. Research indicates that the figure also evidently comes packed with an exclusive display stand, though this reviewer doesn’t recall seeing one in its box.
PACKAGING:
The well-manufactured box includes an image of the Dynamic Duo in their familiar Bat-climbing pose upside a Gotham City skyscraper.
BRIAN & ROSCOE’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars
