BTAS - Christmas with the Joker

If the last episode was steeped in dark realism, then this episode is the exact opposite. It's a perfect example of the "fun" side of BTAS, even if it goes a bit far.

Here, the Joker makes his first appearance, and attacks Gotham with his most evil plan yet: hosting an evil Christmas TV special.  He's captured three of Batman's friends and allies, and will drop them into a tank of acid—on live TV—unless Batman and Robin can somehow manage to hunt down the Joker in his hideout while simultaneously disarming a plethora of deadly disasters that he has set up all over the city.

This is Robin's first appearance, and he gets absolutely no introduction. It's not really a problem, though, and he will eventually get a great two-part origin story later in the show.

Kevin Conroy has the definitive voice for Batman, and Mark Hamill is the definitive Joker. Hamill's maniacal laughter is captivating, and his tone is absolutely perfect. There's really no way to accurately explain it in words; if you haven't seen a DCAU episode with the Joker, go out and find one. You'll be happy you did.

Overall, this episode wasn't exactly perfect, but it's one of my favorites, if only for the fun factor.

7.5/10