The Dark Knight’s a little too angsty (not to mention violent) for comic-loving kids. So what’s an underage Batfan to do? Cartoon Network’s hoping they’ll tune in Friday nights this fall (parents in tow) for the new animated series, Batman: The Brave and the Bold. According to the sci-fi folks at io9 reporting from Comic-Con this weekend, it’s “the goofiest, most kid-friendly Batman since the 1970s.”

Don’t expect the usual small screen setup. This Batman is sans Alfred. He’s Commissioner Gordon-less. And he’s not even in Gotham. The show stays true to the old “Brave and the Bold” comics, in which Batman’s constantly switching up locations and sharing quips with new hero sidekicks. (Look for Green Arrow, Aquaman and Blue Beetle to make appearances.)

We’re not saying this looks like a show which will teach your kids how to play the piano or get them all hyped up about algebra, but kicky, action-packed fun? We’re guessing yes.

Catch a glimpse here.

Faithful readers of Smart News will know although we recommend the animated show Franny’s Feet to other parents, we like to pretend the TiVo in our own home isn’t able to record it. Don’t get us wrong — it has a fabulous concept. (Girl transported on magical adventure each time she tries on shoes in grandpa’s cobbler shop.) We love cobbler shops. But the show is just a wee bit precious for our own personal tastes. (Are there really any kids out there who say, “Applesauce!” when things don’t go their way? And parents who encourage it?)

But like we said, we’re in the minority here. Franny’s Feet just got picked up for an additional season on PBS KIDS. As did Ni Hao, Kai-Lan on Nick Jr. And we just received word that Wow, Wow Wubzy! (another Nick Jr. animated show) is coming to DVD this fall for the first time.

Do you see where we’re going here? Just because a show is dubbed a “good” show for kids doesn’t mean you have to love it, too. Or do you? (This is like one of those voice-over questions Carrie asks on an ep of Sex and the City, although not as, well, sexy.)

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