Here’s the Guide Used to Write Batman: The Animated Series

Among the iconic 1990s animated series, Batman is one of the most beloved. Treating the character as a more serious, noir-esque detective, rather than the cartoonish treatment given by the original Adam West television series and the later 1990s Joel Schumacher films like Batman Forever and Batman and Robin, the show was able to not only reach a whole new audience of young people, but also made for a television show that teens and adults could enjoy, as well.

Not only was it loved by fans, it actually influenced the future of the Batman character and franchise. The character of Harley Quinn, which has gone on to become one of the most popular figures in the world of comics--so much so that much of the hype of the upcoming Suicide Squad movie is based around excitement for Harley Quinn on the big screen--originated on the animated series. Furthermore, Mark Hamill, who voiced the Joker on the show, has become the definitive voice of the Joker in the minds of many fans.

I mean, seriously, how badass is the intro alone?

It turns out that the tone of the series was very, very well-defined and incredibly calculated, as documented by this unearthed writers' guide for the series.

The whole thing is incredibly interesting as a perspective into the world of writing a series, as it breaks down the structure of how episodes were written and assembled, and gives information about who the character was intended to be. Of particular interest to me, and this is especially interesting given the approach most comic book movie adaptations have gone, is that they steadfastly refused to make any episodes about the origins of Batman. The show was to focus on the character as he was, rather than introduce anyone to him. Another point that's brought up that's pretty cool is the idea that it is actually Bruce Wayne who is the disguise, with Batman representing his true identity. Now that I know that was the intent, I can completely see how this character has become the definitive representation of Batman for many, including myself. He's Batman at his core, at all times, rather than a man who dresses up in a suit to punch a clown sometimes.

Check the whole guide out here, it's a really fascinating glimpse into one of the most beloved cartoons of a generation.