Common Sense Media Review
A dark, violent comic book comes to life.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
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Batman: The Animated Series
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 18 parent reviews
Based on 48 kid reviews
Kids say this show is a classic with superior animation, compelling storylines, and strong voice performances, making it a favorite among both children and adults. However, many reviews caution that its darker themes, moderate violence, and occasional mature content make it unsuitable for younger viewers, particularly those under eight.
- dark themes
- moderate violence
- suitable for teens
- classic animation
- strong storytelling
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES follows the adventures of Bruce Wayne and his alter ego, Batman. This cartoon version, which originally ran from 1992-1995 (it still airs in syndication and is available on DVD), closely mirrors most other takes on the Dark Knight: Bruce comes from one of the most affluent and generous families in Gotham City. As a child, he witnessed his parents' murder -- an event that ultimately leads him to become Batman. As an adult, Bruce (voiced by Kevin Conroy) is left carrying the responsibility of the family mansion and the family business, Wayne Enterprises; but most of all, he's left carrying guilt, since he blames himself for his parents' deaths. With the help of servant-turned-father figure Alfred (Efrem Zimbalist Jr.), Bruce creates Batman to get his revenge on all the criminals in Gotham. Later on, he's joined by sidekick Robin (Loren Lester).
Is It Any Good?
Overall, this complex, well-made series is further proof (if anyone still needs it) that animation isn't always automatically kid friendly. Batman: The Animated Series is a fairly violent cartoon. Guns, knives, and other weapons make frequent appearances, and all of the characters -- including Batman himself -- handle conflicts with their fists rather than their conversational skills. Also, some episodes focus heavily on Bruce's would-be playboy image, which includes some tame womanizing.
Most concerning, though -- at least for parents of young children -- is the show's overall grim quality: Bruce's melancholy and anger are the driving force behind the entire series, and some of the show's dark, intellectual plot twists could easily scare some younger kids.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Batman: The Animated Series compares with other Batman TV shows and movies?
What are the responsibilities of being a hero? What is a hero? Is Batman a hero, a martyr, or both? Why is Batman so grim? Why does he feel responsible for the citizens of Gotham?
How does Batman demonstrate courage in Batman: The Animated Series? Why is this an important character strength?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 5, 1992
- Cast : Efrem Zimbalist Jr , Kevin Conroy , Loren Lester
- Networks : Boomerang , Disney XD , Discovery Family Channel
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- Topics : Superheroes , Adventures
- Character Strengths : Courage
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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