Hopefully no supervillains were harmed in the making of this road safety video featuring “Batman” actor Adam West. It was filmed in London’s Kensington neighborhood in May, 1967.
This long-lost clip shows the Caped Crusader teaching young British kids how to cross the street. Adam West donned his cape and flew to London for the short film, which was never screened outside of the U.K.
“I’m taking a holiday from crime-fighting,” Batman says from the banks of the River Thames, with Big Ben over his shoulder. Naturally, he’s brought along his nifty Batcamera to capture some memories. “No rest from danger, though, because all around us is that deadly, daily danger — traffic!” Cue the “POW!” effect as a double-decker bus zooms by.
“I admire the way all you British children triumph over this danger,” West says in his inimitable voice.
Batman then gathers five young children and teaches them the Green Cross Code. “Look right, look left, look right again,” he instructs. Then he gets a little face time with a blond moppet.
The clip was screened for TV professionals and scholars this past weekend at Birmingham City University. Kaleidoscope surveyed 1,000 folks in the British television industry to compile a list of the most sought-after footage from bygone television. Episodes of Doctor Who, Top of the Pops and The Avengers.
Below are some photographs of Adam West dressed as “Batman” for the filming of a road safety advert for children on 7th May 1967.
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
When Batman Isn't Saving Gotham, He's Helping These Adorable Kids Cross the Street!
