Episode six of Batman: Caped Crusader diverges from its thus-far grounded narrative to explore elements of DC’s Dark Universe. As a thief reigns terror against Gotham’s most vulnerable, Batman faces forces beyond this realm.
The episode opens with two officers on a late-night armored truck delivery. Their conversation about the fall of the factory industry and the blue-collar job market is interrupted by a ghoulish Paul Revere-like character. The haunting gunman manages to escape with funds before riding off into the distance.
The subject of finances continues between Bruce Wayne and his trusted attorney, Lucius Fox (Bumper Robinson). After updating Bruce on his healthy wealth portfolio, Fox asks about the alleged “ghost robberies.” Bruce scoffs at the idea of a ghost needing money in the first place, deducing that it’s simply a “lunatic in a costume.” Pennyworth joins the conversation, with him and Lucius exchanging quips over familiar literature. Bruce seems surprised the two have such a causal rapport, to which Lucius responds, “I was raised to treat the staff like people, Bruce.” Before leaving, Lucius mentions his recent purchase: Heritage Hill. He plans to redevelop the acres with a park, housing, and other amenities.
Speaking of new purchases, mayoral candidate DA Harvey Dent is accused of trying to buy the election by incumbent Mayor Jessup. The press paints Dent as out of touch with commoners as he loses support from the working class. Rupert Thorne offers to help boost Harvey in the polls, telling him “You’ve got morals. But you can’t save anyone unless you win.”
Later, the thief strikes again, targeting working citizens riding the transit home from work. Dent is present during the ordeal, but avoids being robbed. Batman arrives to chase the jockeying thief but he vanishes through a wall. Puzzled, Batman deduces three important facts: the ghost targets the underprivileged, is obsessed with the 18th century, and wears a specific code of arms.
After some research at Gotham Library, Batman discovers the specific crest belonged to a founding family of Gotham, the Craddocks. James Craddock was an aristocrat who squandered his wealth gambling. But, he blamed his misfortune on democracy citing his wealth as an innate right. He resorted to stealing from the less fortunate until he was arrested and hanged for his crimes.
As Batman progresses with his case, Fox meets with the current owner of Heritage Hill to finalize the purchase. The man’s name is Russell Craddock, a descendant of James. James, known as the Gentleman Ghost, appears. Angry that his family’s plot is being sold to someone like Fox, he chases the duo across the estate. Batman intercedes but is no match for the ghost. James retires but promises Batman will not be so lucky if they’re to cross paths again.
Realizing his resources will not suffice, Batman seeks assistance from someone familiar with the supernatural. He enlists the help of Linton Midnite (Cedric Yarbrough). The Haitian deals in voodoo and educates Batman on how to rid this world of the being. For the ritual, Batman must obtain Heritage Hill’s original deed and the blood of a nobleman. For payment of services, he must bring something back to Linton.
Batman begins the ritual, exorcising Craddock’s ghost into a blue flame. But the plumes possess Pennyworth, forcing him to attack Batman. Once the deed is fully destroyed, the ghost flees Alfred’s body and Batman traps it in a test tube. As promised, Batman returns Craddock to Linton.
The episode closes with a frustrated Dent. Finding himself fifteen points down in the polls and losing union support, Harvey has no choice but to call Throne.
This episode was a thrilling ride both thematically and narratively. The thread on wealth and class throughout was expertly written and grounded the universe with real-life problems. We saw how harmful too much wealth can be, from manipulating an election to validating one’s bigotry. The moments between Lucius and Bruce, and later between Batman and Alfred, helped shine a light on the subject of the haves and have-nots. Batman may forget at times that it’s Bruce’s wealth that allows him to exist.
Storywise, the use of supernatural characters expanded the series’ scope while incorporating lesser-known characters from DC and Batman lore. Gentleman Ghost isn’t a new foe, having first appeared in the comics as a villain of the Flash. His most recent appearance in mainstream media was the animated series, Batman: The Brave and the Bold. Linton Midnite aka Papa Midnite, was a great addition as well. Originally a foe of Constantine, the character comes from DC’s Dark Universe which focuses on characters who deal in magic and the undead. Hopefully, we see more of these characters appear in future episodes.
Rating: 9/10