"Smack in the Middle" is the follow up to "Hi Diddle Riddle", letting us see Riddler preparing a "Robin costume" for Jill Jt. John's Molly to disguise herself so she could sneak into the Batcave and kill Batman. This would not be the case as Batman knew that Molly was wearing a false disguise, with her fleeing into a Nuclear reactor which works as the source for powering the Batcave's mechanical systems. While Robin remained held captive, Riddler awaits Molly's return but would be welcomed by Batman instead. A bulletproof glass keeps Batman from arresting Riddler, and the dynamic duo will need to follow the riddle prepared by their nemesis, as a Robin playing possum overheard him. Gorshin mocking Batman behind the bulletproof glass, the use of a giant elephant as a Trojan horse to foil Riddler's attempt to confiscate a priceless elephant exhibit from Muldavia, and Molly's death (quite a tragedy within such an innocuous comic show) due to her attempt to get away from Batman all provide highlights in this busy episode. The laughing gas, the weapon used to make a gathering of locals attending the elephant statue ceremony hosted by the Muldavia dignitary first giggle and then collapse, provides a colorful "send off" to the Riddler until he would return later to give Batman, Robin, and Gotham further grief. You get those wonderful sets like the Molehill Mob hideout, the Batcave, and the Gotham underground which allow for plenty of eyepopping comic goodness to enjoy. But, to me, Gorshin is the whole show, and he is allowed to giggle maniacally to his heart's content, a live wire seemingly nudged to go all out.
Review of Smack in the Middle
