Absolute Batman's Counterpart: The Absolute Joker Unveiled

The launch of Absolute Batman has been nothing short of spectacular, marking one of DC's most significant comic book releases in recent years. The debut issue soared to the top as the best-selling comic of 2024, and its continued dominance on sales charts underscores the enthusiastic reception from fans eager for this bold and often surprising reinvention of the Dark Knight.

Following the conclusion of their first arc, "The Zoo," creators Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta shared insights with IGN on how Absolute Batman reimagines the iconic character. Dive into the details of designing a more muscular Batman, the profound impact of having a living mother on Bruce Wayne, and the looming threat of the Absolute Joker.

Warning: full spoilers for Absolute Batman #6 follow!

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Designing Absolute Batman

The Absolute Universe's Batman is an imposing figure, with his muscular build, shoulder spikes, and a Batsuit adorned with various enhancements. This unique design earned a spot on our list of the 10 greatest Batman costumes of all time. Snyder and Dragotta revealed the inspiration behind this hulking Batman, emphasizing the need for a larger-than-life presence to compensate for the absence of Bruce Wayne's traditional wealth and resources.

"Scott's vision was to create the biggest Batman yet," Dragotta explained to IGN. "When I first drew him, Scott pushed for even more size, leading to a design that's almost Hulk-like. The goal was to make him an iconic, weaponized figure, where every part of his suit serves a utility purpose."

For Snyder, the necessity of an enormous Batman stemmed from the need to intimidate Gotham's criminals without relying on wealth. "Classic Batman uses his wealth as a tool of intimidation," Snyder noted. "But in this universe, Batman's size and physicality become his primary weapons. He confronts villains who believe they're untouchable, proving them wrong with his sheer force."

The influence of Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns is evident in Dragotta's art, particularly in a homage to Miller's iconic (and surprisingly divisive) Dark Knight Returns cover, showcasing Batman's silhouette against a lightning bolt.

Giving Batman a Family

Absolute Batman reshapes Batman's mythology, notably with the revelation that his mother, Martha, is alive. This change transforms Batman from a solitary orphan into a hero with much to lose, adding new layers to his character.

"Introducing Martha was a decision I debated extensively," Snyder admitted. "Having her alive shifts the dynamics dramatically. She's the moral compass of the series, providing Bruce with strength and vulnerability. This relationship adds a core element to his character and the narrative."

Another significant alteration is Bruce's childhood friendships with future rogues like Waylon Jones, Oswald Cobblepot, Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, and Selina Kyle. These relationships influence his journey to becoming Batman, as teased by Snyder for future issues.

Absolute Batman vs. Absolute Black Mask

In "The Zoo," Batman confronts the nihilistic gang leader Roman Sionis, aka Black Mask. Snyder and Dragotta chose to revamp this villain, seeing potential to mold him into a symbol of nihilism fitting their narrative. "We wanted a villain who epitomizes the idea that the world is beyond saving," Snyder said. "Black Mask embodies this with his death mask, leading a hedonistic gang amid Gotham's decay."

Their confrontation in issue #6 culminates in a brutal showdown on Sionis' yacht, where Batman, despite not killing, leaves Black Mask severely injured. "These moments showcase Batman's determination to prove he matters," Snyder emphasized. "He uses the world's doubts as fuel to fight on."

The Threat of Absolute Joker

The series teases the inevitable clash with the Absolute Joker, who embodies the opposite of Batman's struggle. Introduced in issue #1 and briefly seen at the end of "The Zoo," the Joker is depicted as wealthy, worldly, and terrifyingly composed.

"In this inverted world, Batman is the disruptor, while Joker represents the system," Snyder explained. "Their dynamic is crucial, even when Joker isn't directly involved. He's already a formidable villain before facing Batman, and their relationship will evolve throughout the series."

What to Expect From Absolute Mr. Freeze and Absolute Bane

Issues #7 and #8 introduce Mr. Freeze in a horror-infused arc by Marcos Martin. "Mr. Freeze's story mirrors Bruce's internal struggles," Snyder said. "It's a darker, twisted take on the character, fitting our universe's unique tone."

Bane's looming presence promises a physical challenge for Batman. "Bane is massive, making Batman's silhouette look smaller," Snyder teased, indicating a formidable opponent who will test Batman's limits.

As part of the broader Absolute line, Absolute Batman will begin to intersect with other series in 2025, hinting at a larger interconnected narrative. "Bruce is aware of events in other parts of our Absolute Universe," Snyder revealed. "We're planning how these characters and their villains will interact in the coming years."

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