Batman: The Animated Series
Episode 15 & 16
The Cat and the Claw Part 1 and Part 2
We’re not breaking this up because the two episodes tones are so consistent they deserve the same review.
This was actually the first episode to air on TV but the 8th created. It’s quite the introduction to the character. We meet Catwoman for the first time and learn she’s Selina Kyle. She’s a cat burglar that manages to trick Batman just enough to regularly get away.
The basic plot is some type of terrorist conspiracy involving Red Claw. Batman is trying to stop it. Selina Kyle is causing problems for the terrorist via her environmental lobbying. Her alter ego Catwoman is causing problems via her robberies. We get a heavy showing of the difference between wholesome Bruce Wayne and tough as nails Batman. Selina Kyle is way into Batman but thinks Bruce is just a nice guy and totally friend-zones him.
The cliffhanger is the ultra bad guy Red Claw’s goons learn Selina Kyle is Catwoman.
Red Claw causes shenanigans, kidnaps Catwoman’s best friend Maven. (Is Maven her lesbian girlfriend, lesbian best friend)? Our guess is yes. Catwoman goes to save her friend, Batman finds the same location through his detective skills. Massive fights take place. Batman stops a big virus from being unleashed on Gotham. Catwoman defeats Red Claw.
Batman tracks Catwoman back to her apartment and arrest her for her criminal activity. He totally wanted to bone her but Batman doesn’t tolerate crooks.
There are better episodes in the series but for what became an intro episode it’s not bad. It’s not a particularly exciting two-parter. Some episodes just don’t have enough time when you have two villains and are trying to develop a romance. Catwoman’s design is based on Michelle Pfeiffer from Batman Returns which actually turned out really nice. She’s a brunette in the comics but it’s a nice change to have her as a blonde in the show.
Written by
Joseph Ammendolea
Owner/President
“I Like To Play With Toys” Productions®
ILikeToPlayWithToysProductions@Yahoo.com
