Absolute Batman's Counterpart: The Absolute Joker Unveiled

Absolute Batman has emerged as one of DC's most significant comic book launches in recent years, capturing the attention of fans and critics alike. The debut issue, hailed as the best-selling comic of 2024, has maintained its position at the top of the sales charts, a testament to its bold and often surprising reinvention of the Dark Knight.

Following the completion of their first story arc, "The Zoo," creators Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta shared insights with IGN on how they've reshaped the traditional Batman mythos. Their discussion delved into the design of the impressively muscular Batman, the transformative impact of having a living mother on Bruce Wayne, and what readers can anticipate as the Absolute Joker steps into the spotlight.

Warning: Full spoilers for Absolute Batman #6 follow!

Absolute Batman #6 Preview Gallery

11 ImagesDesigning Absolute Batman

The Batman of the Absolute Universe is a formidable presence, characterized by his imposing physique and enhanced Batsuit features like shoulder spikes. This unique design earned Absolute Batman a spot on our list of the 10 greatest Batman costumes of all time. Snyder and Dragotta explained their approach to crafting this larger-than-life Dark Knight, focusing on a Batman without the usual wealth and resources.

“Scott's vision was to make this the most imposing Batman we've seen,” Dragotta told IGN. “Initially, I drew him quite large, but Scott pushed for even more. We ventured into Hulk-like dimensions to emphasize his sheer physicality and presence.”

Snyder emphasized that in the classic Batman universe, wealth is a superpower. Without it, this Batman relies on his physicality to intimidate Gotham's criminals. “The classic Batman uses his wealth as a tool for intimidation,” Snyder explained. “In the Absolute Universe, his size and the utility of his suit become his primary weapons, making him a force of nature against his adversaries.”

The influence of Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns is evident, particularly in a striking splash page from issue #6, which pays homage to Miller’s iconic Dark Knight Returns cover.

Giving Batman a Family

Absolute Batman introduces significant changes to the Dark Knight's mythology, notably the revelation that Bruce Wayne's mother, Martha, is alive. This development transforms Batman from a solitary figure to one with familial ties and vulnerabilities.

Snyder admitted the decision to keep Martha alive was a pivotal one. “It was a complex choice, but it added depth to Bruce's character,” he said. “Martha serves as the moral compass of the series, providing Bruce with strength and vulnerability.”

Another key change is Bruce's childhood friendship with future villains like Waylon Jones, Oswald Cobblepot, Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, and Selina Kyle. These relationships will be explored further in upcoming issues, revealing how they shaped Bruce's path to becoming Batman.

Snyder highlighted the importance of these relationships, saying, “These friendships ground Bruce and add layers to his character. They're integral to understanding his journey and the essence of the series.”

Absolute Batman vs. Absolute Black Mask

In "The Zoo," Batman confronts a new generation of villains, with Roman Sionis, aka Black Mask, taking center stage. Initially considering a new villain, Snyder and Dragotta chose to revamp Black Mask, aligning his nihilistic worldview with the series' themes.

“We wanted a villain who embodied the idea that the world is beyond saving,” Snyder said. “Black Mask's aesthetic and philosophy fit perfectly with our narrative, allowing us to explore him in a fresh, creator-owned manner.”

The climactic confrontation in issue #6 sees Batman storming Sionis' yacht, delivering a brutal defeat while maintaining his no-kill rule. This fight underscores Batman's underdog status in the Absolute Universe, showcasing his determination to make a difference despite the odds.

The Threat of Absolute Joker

The series hints at a looming confrontation with the Absolute Joker, introduced as Batman's antithesis. Unlike the traditional Joker, this version is wealthy, worldly, and devoid of humor, setting the stage for a unique dynamic.

Snyder explained, “In this inverted world, Batman is the disruptor, while Joker represents the established order. Their relationship will evolve significantly as the series progresses.”

What to Expect From Absolute Mr. Freeze and Absolute Bane

Issues #7 and #8 introduce Mr. Freeze, reimagined as a horror-inspired villain by artist Marcos Martin. Snyder expressed excitement about this detour, noting its thematic relevance to Bruce's struggles.

“Mr. Freeze's dark path mirrors Bruce's own challenges,” Snyder said. “We're taking a bold approach with these villains, crafting a darker, more twisted universe.”

As for Bane, Snyder teased that he would be a physically imposing adversary, designed to dwarf even the massive Batman. “Bane is big. We wanted him to make Bruce's silhouette look smaller,” he stated.

Finally, Snyder hinted at future interconnectivity within the Absolute Universe. “As we move into 2025, you'll see how these characters and their villains start to influence each other,” he said, emphasizing that the series would remain separate from the main DC universe.

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