The DTV That Could Have Been – “Batman: Asylum”
Countless projects are shut down at various stages of production. Whether it’s just after the initial idea pitch or early into design work, etc., some productions just aren’t able to make it for one reason or another. This is a brief look at Batman: Asylum, a Direct-To-Video feature that could have been.
After the success of the 1998 direct-to-video feature Batman & Mr. Freeze: Sub-Zero, Warner Bros. Animation commissioned a new Batman DTV. Boyd Kirkland was slated to produce and Steven E. Gordon (X-Men: Evolution) was set to work on character design. The movie was dubbed Batman: Asylum. What made this project unique was that Kirkland was able to convince Warner Bros. Animation to allow all the characters to be redesigned from scratch for the project.
However, Batman: Asylum was eventually canceled and scrapped in lieu of the Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker DTV. Thankfully, the character design work is available to view on Steve E. Gordon’s website. Below are two images of two of the redesigns Gordon did for the canceled movie. Click on the images below for a closer look.
For more Batman: Asylum images, head over to the official Steven E. Gordon website.
Thanks to Steven E. Gordon for his assistance.
The DTV That Could Have Been – “The Batman Versus Hush”
Countless projects are shut down at various stages of production. Whether it’s just after the initial idea pitch or early into design work, etc., some productions just aren’t able to make it for one reason or another. This is a brief look at The Batman Versus Hush, a Direct-To-Video feature that could have been.
It’s no secret that Jeff Matsuda, one of the lead creators behind The Batman, is friends with comic book scribe Jeph Loeb. It’s also no secret that Matsuda has talked to Loeb on more than one occasion about introducing the character Hush into The Batman mythos. Who’s Hush? Hush was a character Loeb introduced in the popular Batman comic book storyline “Hush” in the early 2000s. After the success of the The Batman Versus Dracula DTV, it seemed like another The Batman DTV was inevitable. And, actually, there was a second The Batman DTV in early pitching stages, a DTV which would have focused on Hush. Believing in the tremendous wealth of material from Batman’s comic roots, Matsuda thought a DTV focusing on Hush would be something the fans could really enjoy.
However, Warner Bros. Animation wanted to keep the The Batman DTV franchise going as a “The Batman Versus Another Monster” series, so the The Batman Versus Hush (tentative title) idea never went beyond the pitching stage. Whether we’ll see future The Batman DTVs remain to be seen. Until then, Matsuda has recently released his The Batman Versus Hush pitch artwork for the fans to see. A thumbnail of the promotional image created by Matsuda is available below.
Thanks to Jeff Matsuda for the image and additional information.
No New Episodes of “The Batman” and “Legion” In January 2008
New episodes for both series will likely begin in February 2008, but nothing is confirmed at this time.
Stay tuned for further updates.
“Batman: Gotham Knight” Novelization Coming April 2008
The novelization will adapt the six short stories slated to be featured in the highly anticipated direct-to-video feature. The six short stories, taking place between 2005’s Batman Begins and the upcoming 2008 film The Dark Knight, will be written by Josh Olson, David Goyer, Brian Azzarello, Greg Rucka, Jordan Goldberg, and Alan Burnett. Each segment, featuring a different distinct anime-influenced animated style, will be directed by Bruce Timm.
Batman: Gotham Knight is slated for a June 2008 video release.
WHV Announces New “Sub-Zero” / “Mask of the Phantasm” Combo Release
Warner Home Video (WHV) and DC Comics will release the Batman Double Feature DVD which contains two feature length animated made-for-video movies to DVD for one value price a first time for Batman! The Batman Double Feature DVD will be available on February 12, 2008 for $14.97 SRP. Order due date is January 8, 2008.
Batman and Mr. Freeze: Sub Zero is a breathtaking animated adventure that explodes into action when the villainous Mr. Freeze kidnaps Batgirl. Now, racing the clock, Batman and Robin face off against Mr. Freeze in the iciest showdown of the century. Batman Mask of Phantasm was called one of the most imaginative films of the past year by Chuck Rich (Westwood One). Only here will you discover all-new revelations about Batmans past, his archrival the Joker and the most grueling battle of Batmans life the choice between his love of a beautiful woman and his vow to be the defender of right.
Happy Holidays from The World’s Finest
While 2007 passed by quickly, it was a busy year here for all of us. New movies, new television series (more of both to come in the coming years, by the way), new comics, all of it has kept us both busy and talking. But, now that the holidays are here, things can finally slow down just a little bit so we can take it all in. We can relax just a little bit as the news slows down just before the New Year.
Still, it’s been an excellent year for The World’s Finest with the site revamp, the addition of new sections and the new DVD-themed spin-off, The WF DVD Report. It’s been a blast on our side and we hope you’ve been enjoying it as well. New and Updates will slow down a little bit over the next couple of weeks, but once 2008 arrives, we’ll be roaring back with a plethora of stuff that will, undoubtedly, keep everyone talking. Oh, before I forget, if you have any site updates you’d like to see, please PM or email Bird Boy and/or myself. We’ll get to them quicker that way! Okay, now where was I?
Oh yes! So, as the year comes to a close, Zach, myself, and everyone who lends a hand here at The World’s Finest, would like to wish everyone the best in the coming holiday season. Why not pop in Justice League’s “Comfort & Joy,” or Batman: The Animated Series’ “Christmas with the Joker” and “Holiday Knights” to celebrate this festive time? And why not crack open some of the holiday-themed Batman Adventures comics? There’s some great stories to be read there.
But in the spirit of the season, I, as well as everyone involved with The World’s Finest, would again like to wish everyone here a great holiday season! Id also like to thank the strong creative teams of our favorite programs, movies, and comics for providing a year that had all of the DC Animation fans talking! It’s been a great year here and we’d like to thank everyone who has made stopping here for a few minutes apart of their daily ritual. We strive to do our best, even when it seems like there’s too much on our plate and not enough hours in the day, we strive to keep and retain our status as the No. #1 largest DC-Animated themed site on the net. There’s a lot more to come in 2008, so stick around!
So, to all, Happy Holidays!
-James Harvey-Richardson
-Zach Demeter
World’s Finest Online: A Comprehensive Guide to the DCAU
World’s Finest Online, a premier resource for fans of the DC Animated Universe (DCAU), is a site that truly understands and values your passion. We offer a wealth of information, news, and updates about the beloved animated series and movies based on DC Comics’ iconic characters. Since its inception, World’s Finest Online has been dedicated to providing detailed content about the DCAU, making it a destination for enthusiasts like you.
Origins and Evolution of World’s Finest Online
Dcanimated.com began as a fan-driven project dedicated to documenting the DCAU. The site has grown significantly, offering comprehensive coverage of all aspects of the DC Animated Universe. It features detailed episode guides, character biographies, and behind-the-scenes insights, making it an invaluable resource for fans.
Extensive Coverage of DCAU Series and Movies
World’s Finest Online provides in-depth information on all major DCAU series, including classics like Batman: The Animated Series, Superman: The Animated Series, and Justice League. Each series is explored thoroughly, with episode summaries, reviews, and notable quotes. The site also covers DCAU movies, such as Batman: Mask of the Phantasm and Justice League: The New Frontier, offering detailed analyses and production notes.
Staying current with the latest developments in the DCAU is easy with World’s Finest Online. The site regularly updates its news section with announcements about new releases, upcoming projects, and special events. Fans can stay informed about voice cast reunions, special edition releases, and convention appearances related to the DCAU.
Exclusive Interviews and Insights
World’s Finest Online features exclusive interviews with key figures behind the DCAU. Creators like Bruce Timm, Paul Dini, and Alan Burnett share their insights and experiences, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the making of these iconic shows and movies. These interviews provide valuable context and deepen the appreciation for the creative efforts that brought the DCAU to life.
World’s Finest Online Community Engagement and Fan Contributions
The site fosters a vibrant community of DCAU fans. Visitors can participate in forums, share fan art, and contribute to discussions about their favorite shows and characters. World’s Finest Online also highlights fan projects and provides a platform for fans to showcase their creativity and passion for the DCAU.
Comprehensive Episode Guides and Character Biographies
One of the standout features of dcanimated.com is its extensive episode guides. Each episode of the DCAU series is meticulously cataloged, with summaries, key moments, and notable quotes. Additionally, the site offers detailed biographies of major and minor characters, providing background information and character development insights.
World’s Finest Online boasts a rich collection of archival content, including video clips, image galleries, and soundtracks from various DCAU series and movies. The site also features special sections dedicated to unique aspects of the DCAU, such as iconic moments, crossover episodes, and thematic explorations.
Where to Watch the DCAU
World’s Finest Online provides information on where fans can watch their favorite DCAU series and movies. The site includes links to streaming platforms like HBO Max and details about physical media releases. This makes it easy for fans to enjoy the DCAU’s extensive content library.
World’s Finest Online is an essential resource for any fan of the DC Animated Universe. With its comprehensive coverage, exclusive content, and active community, the site continues to celebrate and preserve the legacy of the DCAU. Fans can rely on World’s Finest Online for accurate information, engaging content, and the latest updates in DC animated storytelling.
About the World’s Finest Online Creators
World’s Finest Online was created by dedicated fans of the DCAU. Their passion and commitment have made the site a trusted source of news and information. By providing detailed and engaging content, they have ensured that the DCAU’s legacy continues to thrive.