Batman: The Animated Series: 5 underrated episodes to watch on Batman Day

3. Almost Got ‘Im

Episode: Season 1, Episode 35

The worst – or “best” depending on how you think of it – of Gotham City’s criminals are sitting around a table playing cards when the subject of Batman comes up. It subsequently starts an argument as the crooks discuss who’s come the closest to defeating him. There is bragging, embellishments and over-the-top descriptions as each villain makes the case for why they almost got the Bat.

It all comes to an end during Joker’s story, with Batman proving that almost doesn’t cut it as he is the one who ultimately gets them in the end.

This is easily one of the funniest episodes of the series. It wasn’t just the stories that made it comical. It was the playful dynamics between the villains and the way interacted with each other. There were plenty of cynical comments and snide remarks, especially between Two-Face and Poison Ivy as the two alluded to their history in the series.

2. Joker’s Favor

Episode: Season 1, Episode 22

Ever have a bad day? Charlie did. After being cut off in his car one too many times, he decided the next person who wrongs him is getting a piece of his mind. He did just that. Fist waving and insulting. Slowly, though, he realizes that it was the Joker in the car. This interaction ends with Charlie owing Joker a favor.

This episode has one of the best endings of the series as a tormented Charlie gets the last laugh, making even The Joker think that he had pushed him too far. It’s a punchline that even gets a chuckle from The Dark Knight. For once, the little guy defeated the Joker.

1. Trial

Episode: Season 2, episode 9

District Attorney Janet Van Dorn didn’t like Batman. She felt that he created the criminals in Gotham City. However, things turn around when The Joker, Two-Face, Poison Ivy, and more kidnap her and put Batman on trial in Arkham Asylum. They then tell their stories and plead their case, suggesting that Batman created them. And, in a strange twist of fate, Janet is the one who has to represent Batman, proving that he did not in fact create them.

This was an interesting take on Batman and what he represents. He is actually breaking the law; District Attorney Janet Van Dorn was right with that point and it’s doubtful that even Bruce would disagree. The end of the episode has a nice lesson in it, though, as D.A. Van Dorn vows to keep fighting for a world in which Gotham doesn’t need Batman. The Dark Knight simply replied, “So will I.”

Batman Day takes place on Saturday, September 18.

What do you think? Are there there underrated episodes of Batman: The Animated Series you’d add to this list? Let us know in the comments below.