So, like every Batman series that has come out since the '92 Dini-verse, 'fans' have come out of the woodwork to tell everyone how terrible this show is. Between the CGI, the lack of known villains, the different take on Alfred... It's horrible just like The Batman & The Brave and the Bold.
Except, it's not...
The animation is fine. It's not the Dini version, nor the CGI Dini version (aka, Green Lantern), and it's not the hammy tB&tB, nor is it the overstylized 'The Batman' animation. It's its own thing, and it grows on you.
The characters were a little bit more difficult to swallow, especially the elder statesman major domo Alfred. However, in both the comics and the Batman: the Animated Series, they have toyed with the idea of Alfred being former MI-6, so, it's hardly out of canon. It is an interesting take, and one not fully explored before.
Using Katana as a partner did put me off at first, but as the stories have progressed, it makes it seem that they're aiming at assembling the Outsiders, a team thus far never brought together on the big or small screen. Again, the writers are thinking outside of the box, so kudos to them!
The final bit that is putting off a lot of 'fans', is the rogue's gallery. No Joker, no Riddler, no Catwoman. Instead, we're getting a "Who's Who" of "Who in the heck is that?" They've dug deep into the DC vaults for some D-listers to use as the bad guys, characters that I, as a reader of the DCU for my entire life have to go look up--and it works. There's no expectation of how the characters are supposed to act, the characters just 'are'. They can be written in any way the writers wish, which is a GREAT strength of the show.
In summation, if you're expecting any of the previous Batman incarnations, you'll be disappointed. If you are looking for something that is actually reasonably fresh, and can surprise you, then by all means, tune in!
Oh, and don't judge by a single episode or two... as of this writing, the show is a whole six episodes in, and it has be hooked. Hopefully, only better things to come!
