We've Met Absolute Batman, but What About Absolute Joker?

DC's *Absolute Batman* is a monumental comic book launch, achieving best-selling status in 2024 and maintaining its top spot ever since. Readers clearly embrace this bold and surprising reimagining of the Dark Knight.

Following the conclusion of their first arc, "The Zoo," creators Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta spoke with IGN about their radical departure from the traditional Batman mythos. This discussion delves into the design of the impressively muscular Batman, the profound impact of Bruce Wayne having a living mother, and the looming threat of Absolute Joker.

Warning: This article contains full spoilers for *Absolute Batman* #6.

Absolute Batman #6 Preview Gallery

11 Images

Designing Absolute Batman

The Absolute Universe's Batman is undeniably intimidating—bulging muscles, shoulder spikes, and a redesigned Batsuit. His inclusion among the 10 greatest Batman costumes of all time is well-deserved. Snyder and Dragotta explain their design choices, reflecting a Batman lacking the usual wealth and resources.

Dragotta explains Snyder's initial direction: "Go big." He initially drew a large Batman, but Snyder's response was, "Bigger!" The design aimed for a bold, iconic figure, emphasizing that this Batman is a weapon. Every element of his suit is functional, evolving and changing as the story progresses.

Snyder highlights the significance of Batman's wealth in the traditional portrayal. This Batman compensates for the lack of resources with sheer physical presence and intimidation. His size and the brutal efficiency of his fighting style become his key assets. He faces villains with greater resources, necessitating his transformation into a force of nature.

The influence of Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns is evident, particularly in a splash page reminiscent of Miller's iconic cover. Dragotta acknowledges the inspiration, citing Miller and Mazzucchelli's storytelling as major influences.

Giving Batman a Family

Beyond the lack of wealth, Absolute Batman significantly alters the Dark Knight's mythology. The most impactful change is the revelation that Martha Wayne is alive. This eliminates Batman's solitary, orphaned status, giving him much more to lose.

Snyder explains the decision to keep Martha alive, noting that exploring her relationship with Bruce was more compelling than focusing on Thomas. Martha acts as the moral compass, balancing Bruce's idealism and providing both strength and vulnerability.

The introduction of Bruce's childhood friends—Waylon Jones, Oswald Cobblepot, Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, and Selina Kyle—as an extended family is another key alteration. These future villains are integral to Bruce's training and development into Batman. Snyder teases further exploration of these relationships in upcoming issues.

Absolute Batman vs. Absolute Black Mask

"The Zoo" arc introduces a new generation of villains, with Black Mask as the primary antagonist. Snyder explains the choice of Black Mask, highlighting his nihilistic nature and the malleability of his character for this reimagining.

The confrontation between Batman and Black Mask culminates in a brutal fight, showcasing Batman's underdog status and his determination to defy expectations. While he stops short of killing Sionis, the fight leaves Black Mask severely injured. Snyder emphasizes Batman's defiance of those who underestimate him.

The Threat of Absolute Joker

Joker's presence is heavily implied, teased from the end of issue #1. This Joker is the inverse of Batman—wealthy, worldly, and devoid of laughter. Snyder describes him as the embodiment of the system, in contrast to Batman's disruptive force.

The arc ends with a brief Joker appearance, showcasing his power and awareness of Batman. Snyder and Dragotta hint at Joker's pre-existing villainy, independent of Batman's influence.

What to Expect From Absolute Mr. Freeze and Absolute Bane

Issues #7 and #8 feature Mr. Freeze, reimagined with a horror-infused approach by artist Marcos Martin. Snyder describes Mr. Freeze's arc as reflecting Bruce's struggles and showcasing a twisted version of the iconic villain.

Bane's future appearance is also teased. Snyder confirms Bane's imposing size, ensuring he remains a formidable threat even against this larger Batman.

Snyder hints at future interactions between the characters within the Absolute Universe, emphasizing that the focus will be on the characters' growing impact on each other rather than crossovers with the main DC Universe.

Absolute Batman #6 is available now. Pre-order Absolute Batman Vol. 1: The Zoo HC on Amazon.