Absolute Batman Introduced: Is Absolute Joker Next?

Absolute Batman has emerged as one of DC’s most significant comic book launches in recent years. The inaugural issue soared to the top as the best-selling comic of 2024, and the series has consistently dominated sales charts. This resounding success underscores readers' enthusiasm for this bold and often surprising reinvention of the Dark Knight.

With the conclusion of their first story arc, "The Zoo," creators Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta took a moment to share with IGN how Absolute Batman challenges the conventional Batman narrative. Delve into their insights on crafting a physically imposing Batman, the profound impact of Bruce Wayne having a living mother, and the looming threat of the Absolute Joker.

Warning: full spoilers for Absolute Batman #6 ahead!

Absolute Batman #6 Preview Gallery

11 ImagesDesigning Absolute Batman

The Absolute Universe's Batman is a formidable presence, characterized by his bulging muscles, shoulder spikes, and a redesigned Batsuit that sets him apart. His striking appearance earned him a spot among the 10 greatest Batman costumes of all time. Snyder and Dragotta shared their approach to creating this imposing version of the Dark Knight, designed to reflect a Batman without the traditional wealth and resources.

"Scott's vision was clear from the start: he wanted a larger-than-life Batman," Dragotta revealed to IGN. "Initially, I drew him significantly larger, but Scott pushed for even more size, suggesting we venture into Hulk-like dimensions."

Dragotta elaborated, "The goal was to embody boldness and iconicity, reflecting the essence of this Batman. Every element of his suit, down to the emblem, is a weapon. This design philosophy will continue to evolve."

For Snyder, the need for a colossal Batman was driven by the absence of Bruce's financial power. "The traditional Batman uses his wealth as a superpower to intimidate," Snyder explained. "Without those resources, this Batman relies on his sheer physical presence and the utility of his entire suit to strike fear into his enemies."

Snyder further noted, "His adversaries believe they're untouchable due to their resources. Batman must be a force of nature, proving that size and violence can be as effective as wealth."

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

The inspiration from Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns is evident, especially in a splash page from issue #6 that pays homage to Miller’s iconic (and surprisingly divisive) Dark Knight Returns cover, depicting Batman leaping against a backdrop of lightning.

"Miller and Mazzucchelli’s Batman from Year One have been monumental influences," Dragotta admitted. "Their storytelling style and narrative layout inspired us to include this homage."

Giving Batman a Family

Absolute Batman introduces significant alterations to the Dark Knight's lore, including the revelation that Bruce's mother, Martha, is alive. This change transforms Batman from a solitary figure into one with deep familial connections and vulnerabilities.

"Introducing a living parent was a decision I debated extensively," Snyder confessed. "Choosing Martha over Thomas felt more compelling. Her presence has evolved into the moral compass of the series, influencing Bruce's journey profoundly."

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

Snyder continued, "Martha adds both strength and vulnerability to Bruce. Her existence in the world creates a new dimension to his character, becoming a core element of the story."

Additionally, the series establishes Bruce's childhood friendships with future villains like Waylon Jones, Oswald Cobblepot, Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, and Selina Kyle. These relationships will play a crucial role in shaping Bruce's path to becoming Batman, as teased by Snyder.

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

"Without global training, Bruce's education comes from these characters," Snyder explained. "Each friendship contributes uniquely to his skills and understanding of Gotham's underworld. These relationships form the heart of the narrative."

In "The Zoo," Batman begins to assert his presence in Gotham as new villains emerge. The focus is on Roman Sionis, aka Black Mask, leader of the nihilistic Party Animals. Snyder and Dragotta considered introducing a new villain but ultimately chose to reinvent Black Mask.

"Black Mask's aesthetic and nihilism fit perfectly with our story," Snyder stated. "We treated him like a creator-owned character, maintaining his core as a crime boss while making him fresh and unique."

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

The climactic battle in issue #6 sees Batman storming Sionis' yacht, delivering a brutal beating. Despite the violence, Batman refrains from killing, leaving Black Mask defeated and severely injured. This fight underscores Batman's underdog status in the Absolute Universe.

"These lines weren't in the original script, but they became the thesis of our Batman," Snyder remarked. "He uses the world's impossibility as fuel to prove his impact."

The Threat of Absolute Joker

The series teases an inevitable clash with the Absolute Joker, introduced in issue #1 as Batman's wealthy, well-trained, and humorless counterpart. "The Zoo" concludes with a chilling glimpse of Joker, hinting at his sinister plans involving Bane.

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

"In our inverted system, Batman disrupts order while Joker embodies it," Snyder explained. "Joker is already a terrifying figure before meeting Batman, and their dynamic will evolve throughout the series."

Dragotta added, "This Joker has a powerful presence, with clues like JK Industries and Arks hinting at a larger plan."

Issues #7 and #8, illustrated by Marcos Martin, introduce a horror-infused Mr. Freeze. "Mr. Freeze reflects Bruce's internal struggle," Snyder noted. "In this universe, we're exploring darker paths for beloved villains."

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

Snyder teased, "Bane will be a formidable opponent, designed to make Bruce's silhouette appear smaller."

As the Absolute line expands with titles like Absolute Flash, Absolute Green Lantern, and Absolute Martian Manhunter, Snyder hinted at future interactions among the characters. "By 2025, you'll see how these characters influence each other within the Absolute Universe," he said.

Absolute Batman #6 is available in stores now. You can preorder the Absolute Batman Vol. 1: The Zoo HC on Amazon.