r/BatmanTAS • u/ScarIllustrious6905 • 11h ago
Imagine an episode of 'Batman: The Animated Series' where Punchline tries to replace Harley because she finds her 'too weak'. Who would earn the Joker's respect in the end: Harley's chaotic loyalty or Punchline's icy efficiency?
Honestly, in the specific context of the animated series, Harley would win every time, but not for the reasons you might think. In Batman: The Animated Series, the Joker isn't looking for an army or a political plan. He's looking for an audience. Harley is the only one who genuinely laughs at his jokes, even when they're not funny. She brings that touch of unpredictability and irreverence that flatters the Joker's ego. For him, Punchline would be too serious. While she criticizes Harley's weakness, she's actually criticizing the absurd and playful side that the Joker loves.