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

Absolute Batman has become a landmark series for DC Comics, capturing the attention of fans and critics alike. The debut issue soared to become the best-selling comic of 2024, maintaining its position at the top of the sales charts. This success is a testament to the series' bold and often surprising reinvention of the Dark Knight, which has resonated deeply with readers.

Creators Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta have concluded their first story arc, "The Zoo," and recently shared insights with IGN on how they've transformed the traditional Batman mythos. Dive into the details behind the design of this impressively muscular Batman, the profound impact of Bruce Wayne having a living mother, and what to anticipate as the ominous Absolute Joker steps into the spotlight.

***Warning:** full spoilers for Absolute Batman #6 ahead!*

Absolute Batman #6 Preview Gallery

11 ImagesDesigning Absolute Batman

The Batman of the Absolute Universe is designed to be an imposing force, with his hulking muscles, shoulder spikes, and enhanced Batsuit features. This redesign earned its place among the 10 greatest Batman costumes of all time. When asked about the inspiration behind this new, larger-than-life Batman, Snyder and Dragotta revealed their vision to IGN.

“Scott’s initial directive was to go big,” Dragotta explained. “He wanted this to be the biggest Batman yet. When I first drew him, I thought I had captured that essence, but Scott pushed for even more size, saying, ‘Nick, I want to go bigger.’ We ended up with a Batman that rivals the Hulk in stature.”

Dragotta elaborated, “The design philosophy was to make him bold and iconic, reflecting his role as a weapon. Every element of his suit, from the emblem to the utility belt, is designed to be a tool of combat. This approach will continue to evolve and refine the character’s appearance in future issues.”

For Snyder, the decision to make Batman larger was crucial. “Traditional Batman uses his wealth as a superpower,” he noted. “But without those resources, this Batman must rely on his physical presence to intimidate Gotham’s criminals. When he confronts villains like the Riddler in advanced suits, his sheer size and readiness for violence become his primary weapons.”

Snyder added, “In this universe, Batman faces villains who believe they are untouchable due to their resources. As he encounters more formidable foes, his need to be a force of nature becomes even more critical. He must show them that he can and will reach them, no matter their power.”

The influence of Frank Miller’s Miller’s iconic (and surprisingly divisive) Dark Knight Returns cover is evident in Absolute Batman, particularly in a striking splash page from issue #6. Dragotta acknowledged this homage, saying, “Miller and Mazzucchelli’s Batman from The Dark Knight Returns and Year One inspired us, not just in art but in storytelling. It felt necessary to pay tribute to their work.”

Giving Batman a Family

Beyond the physical transformation, Absolute Batman reimagines Bruce Wayne’s life in profound ways, notably by keeping his mother, Martha, alive. This change shifts Batman from a solitary figure to one with a family, adding new dimensions to his character.

Snyder admitted, “Introducing Martha was a significant decision. We explored different dynamics, but having her alive brought a fresh perspective. She became the moral compass of the series, providing Bruce with strength and vulnerability. Her presence adds depth to his character and the narrative.”

Additionally, issue #1 introduced Bruce’s childhood friendships with future rogues like Waylon Jones, Oswald Cobblepot, Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, and Selina Kyle. These relationships are crucial to his development as Batman, as Snyder explained, “Without global training, Bruce learned from his friends. Oswald taught him the underworld, Waylon the art of combat, Eddie the logic and detection, Harvey the city’s politics, and Selina... well, that’s a story for later. These relationships are at the heart of our series, shaping Bruce’s journey into Batman.”

Absolute Batman vs. Absolute Black Mask ---------------------------------------

In "The Zoo," Batman confronts Roman Sionis, aka Black Mask, the leader of the nihilistic Party Animals gang. Snyder and Dragotta initially considered a new villain but chose to reinvent Black Mask, appreciating the character's potential for transformation.

Snyder said, “We wanted a villain embodying nihilism, believing the world is beyond saving. Black Mask's skull aesthetic fit perfectly with our theme of a world in chaos. We treated him like a creator-owned character, staying true to his core as a crime boss but making him uniquely ours.”

The climax of their conflict in issue #6 sees Batman storming Sionis’ yacht, delivering a brutal beating while proclaiming, “Tell me again how I don’t matter! I love it!” Despite not killing Black Mask, Batman leaves him severely injured, reinforcing the underdog theme of the Absolute Universe.

Snyder emphasized, “Those lines weren’t in the initial script but emerged from the art. They encapsulate our Batman’s spirit—he thrives on proving the world wrong, using their doubts as fuel. His resolve will be tested in future issues, but at his core, he refuses to accept the impossible.”

The Threat of Absolute Joker

As Batman rises, the looming presence of the Absolute Joker is introduced. Unlike the traditional Joker, this version is wealthy, worldly, and never laughs. The end of "The Zoo" hints at his terrifying nature, as he orders Bane to handle the Batman problem.

Snyder explained, “In our inverted system, Batman disrupts order, while Joker represents the system. Their relationship is always at the opposite ends of the spectrum. This Joker is already a terrifying force before meeting Batman, and their encounters will further evolve his character.”

Dragotta teased, “Joker has been here, and he’s powerful. The clues we’ve planted, like JK Industries and Ark-M, hint at a master plan. His storyline is coming, and we want readers to be intrigued and eager for more.”

What to Expect From Absolute Mr. Freeze and Absolute Bane ---------------------------------------------------------

Issues #7 and #8, illustrated by Marcos Martin, introduce a horror-infused version of Mr. Freeze, reflecting Bruce’s struggles with his new role as Batman. Snyder shared his excitement, “Marcos captures the emotional heart of the story. Mr. Freeze’s dark path mirrors Bruce’s challenges, offering a twisted take on the character.”

As for Bane, Snyder confirmed, “He’s really big. We wanted someone who makes Bruce’s silhouette look smaller. Bane’s physical presence will challenge Batman in new ways.”

Finally, the broader Absolute line, which includes Absolute Wonder Woman and Absolute Superman, will expand in 2025 with titles like Absolute Flash, Absolute Green Lantern, and Absolute Martian Manhunter. Snyder hinted at future interactions within the Absolute Universe, saying, “You’ll see how these characters affect each other and their villains. We’re planning for more interconnected stories in 2025 and beyond.”

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