Ep 31. Dreams In Darkness

Batman: The Animated Series season 1 episode 31, titled "Dreams In Darkness," is a thrilling episode that sees Batman at the mercy of his own fears. The episode opens with Commissioner Gordon receiving a call from Arkham Asylum - they have a patient who claims to know Batman's true identity. When Gordon goes to investigate, he is attacked by the patient, who has been driven insane by a powerful hallucinogenic gas.

The gas, which was created by the villainous Scarecrow, has been released into Gotham's water supply, causing anyone who drinks from it to experience terrifying hallucinations and nightmares. As Batman goes to investigate, he too is exposed to the gas and finds himself trapped in Arkham, where the inmates have taken control.

The episode is particularly notable for its exploration of Batman's psyche, as the Caped Crusader is forced to confront his own greatest fears and insecurities. Through a series of vivid hallucinations, Batman is confronted by the people he has failed to save - including his parents - and forced to face his own mortality.

Meanwhile, Gordon and the rest of the police force race against time to find an antidote to the gas and save the citizens of Gotham before it's too late. The tension builds to a heart-stopping conclusion as Batman, locked in a padded cell and barely conscious, must use all of his wits and resources to escape and stop Scarecrow's plan before it's too late.

Overall, "Dreams In Darkness" is an excellent episode of Batman: The Animated Series that showcases the series' strengths in storytelling, character development, and animation. It's a must-watch for any fan of the Dark Knight and a standout episode in an already impressive first season.