41. The Writers
Comic book writers are known to flit from line to line, label to label and pretty much anyone whos anyone in the field of Comics has had a run on Batman at one point or another. From golden and silver-age legends like Bill Finger and David Vern Reid; through bronze-age giants such as Alan Moore, Frank Miller and Jeph Loeb; Batman traditionally and still to this day enjoys a steady stream of some of the most supremely talented writers in the field.
42. The Artists
Batmans look has changed considerably over the years. Originally created by hall of famer Bob Kane, its a constantly re-adjusting legacy that changes in aesthetic dependent on era and artist. With names like Tim Sale, Frank Miller (again), Brian Bolland, Andy Kubert and the mighty Alex Ross in Batmans artist canon its little wonder that hes been worked over the years into one of the most aesthetically revered costumed heroes of them all.
43. Batman Live
The many failings of Bonos Spiderman: Turn Off The Dark Broadway debacle were well publicised but it clearly got DCs creative heads thinking. Not long after, the Batman Live world tour was announced to the puzzled delight of fans worldwide. I had the pleasure of attending one of the Liverpool performances and while it certainly wasnt as dark as some of my favourite storylines (being a family show and all) it was still a gratifying spectacle that served only to validate my fondness of the character.
44. Adam West & Burt Ward
The 1960s T.V adaptation of Batman is cause for much debate amongst fans. We can all agree that its corny but while some of us cant bear its camp sensibility, some of us myself included - argue that it has inherent kitsch value. What cant be denied is that today, Adam West & Burt Wards old school interpretations of the much loved Batman and Robin have worked their way firmly into pop iconography. And if you ask me, pop iconography can always use more Batman.
45. There's Always A Way Out
I wouldnt say this is a catchphrase per se, but Batman is caught in supposedly inescapable situations with such regularity that its a constantly repeated sentiment throughout the ongoing story. And theres only one thing that Batman knows for sure about inescapable situations: they dont exist.
Theres a wealth of satisfaction to be had from seeing how Batman will come to escape from his foes latest scheme, but arguably even more to come from what he inevitably does to the perpetrator.