"The Zeta Project" (2001) TV series 2001-2003

Creator:

Bob Goodman

Seasons:

1 | 2

Release Date:

27 January 2001 (USA)

Genre:

Animation | Action | Sci-Fi

Plot:

A robot rebels against its creators, refusing to kill, and goes on the run.

Plot Keywords:

Robot | Android | Futuristic | Spin Off | Shape Shifter

Awards:

5 nominations

Cast

Julie Nathanson	...	Rosalie Rowan (26 episodes, 2001-2002)
Diedrich Bader	...	Zee / ... (13 episodes, 2001-2002)

Runtime:

USA:30 min (26 episodes)

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Color:

Color

Certification:

USA:TV-Y7

Company:

Warner Bros. Animation

Quotes:

Zeta: My name is Zeta. I was built as a weapon to destroy, but I will not destroy anymore.

Movie Connections:

Spin off from "Batman Beyond" (1999)

Zeta was a-Greata

As a spin off for a character introduced in Batman Beyond, this cartoon series went beyond the scope of adventure. Zeta was an experimental infiltration robot equipped with weaponry and a holographic self-projector that allows it to assume any identity. However, negating his own programming, he refused to kill. He fled his employers merely attempting to find his creator to prove that he is acting on his own free will. The government doesn't know that, and hunt him down as they think he is rogue. Along the way Zeta hooks up with Ro, a teenage girl, and they assist each other in their treks.

Diedrich Bader (The Drew Carey Show) lends his voice to the peaceful, naive and near-human robot, sounding the least bit threatening and true to Zeta's nature. The friendship between the child-like Zeta and Ro is genuinely portrayed. The supporting characters who chase him are great, including the government agents, and a young genius whom at one point reprogrammed Zeta. The Zeta Project is indeed a combination of Short Circuit and The Fugitive, balanced out by fantastic action, excellent characterization, and plenty of comedic moments.

In one episode, Batman Beyond even makes a cool guest appearance. Sadly, KidsWB canceled this exceptional show, leaving Ro and Zeta's quest hanging.