Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Holy Batmania, bat fans! It's official! To understand the importance of this DVD set... A few years ago a number of blogs took polls and asked fans of classic TV what programs have not yet been released to DVD that fans are begging for. THE WONDER YEARS, WKRP IN CINCINNATI and BATMAN were among the top three. This year, 2014, those goldmines are being excavated from the Batcave. Of course, many of us knew it was coming not just because official BATMAN (TV series) merchandise has been released to the market, but celebrities were leaking advance word. Months before Conan O'Brien leaked word that BATMAN was finally coming out on DVD, and Warners had to confirm (but could not provide a street date at the time), Julie Newmar (CATWOMAN herself) was at the Mid-Atlantic Nostalgia Convention in Maryland in September 2013. When asked during a Q&A panel on stage why the BATMAN TV series had not yet come out on DVD, she remarked, "I wouldn't know since I don't own the property... but I can tell you that I recently recorded audio commentary for many episodes for an upcoming DVD release..." And the fans in the room shouted and cheered. Many announced what they heard on Facebook and Twitter but like anyone posting such news, it was assumed to be gossip... until Conan O'Brien. Adam West and Burt Ward since acknowledged participation with the DVD release (most likely audio commentary) and this set is supposed to be LOADED with bonus extras. Screen tests, audition films, bumpers and promos... you name it. The only question that still remains: legal holdouts always prevent certain purifications. Are all the music cues and scenes going to be intact? Remember that WKRP IN CINCINNATI years ago came out on DVD (Season One) with most of the music replaced and fans were angry. But every music cue had to be licensed and paid for... causing the price to go up. (TV reruns work under the original 1960s contracts and the terms of those contracts are perpetual. For DVDs, new contacts have to be signed and there's usually someone who thinks they don't have to sign unless they are being promised millions.) So if you are shaking your head and questioning why the expensive price for BATMAN, remember that the more expensive the set -- the more complete, intact and uncut the series will be on DVD. Fans have stated that they don't mind paying more for a perfect set. And after all, isn't that what we want? Amazon.com also promises the lowest price so if the price lowers between now and the November release, you'll pay less.