dc - What time period is "Batman: The Animated Series" set in?

I've been re-watching "Batman: The Animated Series" (still as awesome as ever!) and I'm confused on what time period it's set in. The cars, buildings, and clothing imply that it's mid-twentieth century but Batman has advanced technology in the bat cave which makes me think that it's more modern. Is there an official answer?

Answer

Batman the Animated Series (September 5, 1992) was inspired by a variety of previous animated series including the famed Max Fleischer's, Superman produced by Fleischer Studios in the 1940s and based on the artwork of producer and artist Bruce Timm. Timm was also inspired by the various Batman series, both animated and live action. You can see his homages in his depictions of the Batmobile, the Batcave and the technology used by Batman.

Batmobile Launching

A homage to the live-action Batmobile launching sequence, complete with the flame jet and fins.

Considering its influences, it was designed to have a relatively timeless appearance with the automobiles having a rounded 1940-1950s look but having more modern looking trains. There are dirigibles and helicopters, so it mixes and matches technology from a range of modern eras ranging from the 40s to the 90s.

The look even coined its own name, "Dark Deco" which was a mix of retro-modern appearance and intentionally obfuscates what era it is meant to depict. This look was perpetuated in the later Superman the Animated Series and the Justice League Animated Series spin-offs. The look is designed to represent a relatively modern time period without giving too many hints of the era of its origin literally creating a cartoon outside of time.

Take a look at the Max Fleischer Superman and you will be amazed at how forward-thinking those images appear today.

Comments

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