Written by Gary Collinson, the founder and editor of UK film site FlickeringMyth.com, Holy Franchise, Batman! Bringing the Caped Crusader to the Screen traces the entire screen history of the Dark Knight Detective, providing a comprehensive insight into the history and genesis of one of the most recognisable characters of all time.
Holy Franchise, Batman! is published by Robert Hale and is available now via Amazon.co.uk
Read extracts here, here and here.
Official Blurb…
Since
the Caped Crusader first made the leap from comics to silver screen in
the early 1940s, generations of audiences have been captivated by the
screen adventures of Batman, establishing the celebrated comic book hero
as a true icon of popular culture. Now, Gary Collinson traces the
entire screen history of Bob Kane’s Dark Knight Detective, providing a
fascinating insight into one of the most successful media franchises of
all time. Beginning with the early movie serials of the 1940s, Holy Franchise, Batman!
charts the development of Batman’s many exploits across both
live-action and animation, presenting a comprehensive overview of his
illustrious screen career. From the classic 1960s television
series starring Adam West and Burt Ward to the hugely successful
blockbuster feature films from directors Tim Burton (Batman, Batman Returns), Joel Schumacher (Batman Forever, Batman & Robin) and Christopher Nolan (Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, The Dark Knight Rises),
as well as early Saturday morning cartoon outings through to the
acclaimed ‘DC Animated Universe’, this book explores the evolution of
Batman – a journey that has taken him from ‘camp’ crime-fighter to Dark
Knight.
Reviews…
Blogomatic3000 – “A very interesting book, especially for Batman fans… Worth picking up if you want to expand your knowledge of the Batman of the movies.“
Blueprint: Review – “If you just can’t get enough of the Dark Knight at the moment, then this is well worth shelling out for and shouting at the top of your voice, “Holy Franchise Batman!”
ComicBookMovie – “Hands down this is by far the most comprehensive guide to Batman on screen available… Even if you are just a casual Batman fan I would highly recommend it, but if you love The Dark Knight then it is essential.“
Comics Code Weekly – “Whether you’re a fan of the landmark ’60s TV series, the ’90s animated universe or director Christopher Nolan’s Hollywood blockbusters they’re all here; including projects that never made it out of the Batcave (DarKnight and Batman Triumphant) and the loosely connected Catwoman movie… Holy Franchise Batman! is a well written tome that provides a handy overview of the Caped Crusader’s screen career.“
CultBox – “Holy Franchise, Batman! makes the bold claim of being ‘the Caped Crusader fan’s bible’, and lives up to its assertion… Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Caped Crusader or an enthusiastic sidekick looking to further their Dark Knight knowledge, the wealth of information here means you’d have to be some kind of joker not to consider picking this up.“
MidnightReview – “Although Holy Franchise, Batman! is definitely directed in Batman fans (and actually, true Batman geeks), I personally enjoyed reading it more than I had suspected I would. It is interesting, well written and even in its objectiveness, you can feel the heart and soul of the author who wrote it. A must have for every Batman fan.”
MovieFarm – “Gary Collinson’s passion for the Dark Knight is evident throughout. Writing enthusiastically, engagingly and, perhaps most importantly, informatively, Collinson weaves interesting facts and tidbits into the wider history he describes… The perfect accompaniment to any Bat-fan’s collection.“
Pissed Off Geek – “For people interested in the history of Batman this book is obviously a must buy… It examines the phenomenon of Batman and what has made it a success, and what will arguably make it a success in the future… a must read for all fans.“
Total Film – “Gary Collinson’s exhaustive look at Batman on-screen spans his first showing in a 1943 serial up to (but not including) The Dark Knight Rises. He’s a passionate guide, even if he apparently thinks The Animated Series (1992-95) top-trumps Nolan.”
Turning The Page: Holy Franchise, Batman! – “If you are looking for a primer in regards to the numerous cinematic and televised incarnations of Gotham City’s favourite crime fighter then Holy Franchise, Batman! Bringing the Caped Crusader to the Screen will be indispensable reading material.“
WhatCulture – “The book feels a lot like the space where fandom and film criticism meet – the sheer weight of information and dedication to the smallest details comes from an obvious genuine passion for the characters and adaptations… the book doesn’t feel like a eulogy to bygone films – as some critical texts can – instead it urges you to go back and rediscover the joys of earlier Batman films.”
Interviews…
Exepose – Parts one, two and three.
Midnight Review
Novel Thoughts
Robert Hale Book Blog
Miscellaneous Press…
