Absolute Joker: The Untold Story Unveiled

Absolute Batman has emerged as one of DC's most significant comic book launches in recent years. The first issue, acclaimed as the best-selling comic of 2024, has continued to dominate sales charts, a testament to the series' captivating reinvention of the Dark Knight. This bold reinterpretation has clearly resonated with fans, offering fresh takes on familiar themes and characters.

Following the completion of the first story arc, "The Zoo," creators Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta sat down with IGN to delve into the innovative aspects of Absolute Batman. They discussed the striking redesign of Batman, the pivotal role of his living mother, Martha, and the looming threat of Absolute Joker. Dive into their insights on crafting this new universe, including the design process behind the impressively muscular Batman, the impact of his maternal relationship, and what fans can anticipate as the series progresses.

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 figure, characterized by his massive physique, shoulder spikes, and an array of enhancements to the classic Batsuit. This distinctive look earned him a spot on the 10 greatest Batman costumes of all time. Snyder and Dragotta shared their creative process, emphasizing the intention to craft a Batman who compensates for his lack of wealth with sheer physical presence.

“Scott's initial vision was to go big,” Dragotta explained to IGN. “He wanted this to be the largest Batman we've seen, pushing the boundaries to almost Hulk-like proportions. The design reflects his weaponized nature, with every aspect of his suit serving a utilitarian purpose, embodying the themes of the character.”

For Snyder, the oversized Batman was a necessity, highlighting that traditional Batman's superpower is his immense wealth. Without this advantage, the Absolute Batman relies on his size and combat prowess to intimidate Gotham's criminal underworld.

Snyder elaborated, “Classic Batman's presence is bolstered by his resources and technology. But in the Absolute Universe, Batman's sheer physicality and the potential threat of every piece of his suit become his tools of intimidation.”

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)Drawing inspiration from Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns, Dragotta paid homage to its iconic imagery, notably recreating the memorable cover of Batman leaping against a lightning bolt in issue #6.

Dragotta said, “Miller's work, particularly The Dark Knight Returns and Batman: Year One, profoundly influenced our storytelling. The homage felt necessary and right for our narrative.”

Giving Batman a Family

Absolute Batman introduces significant changes to the Dark Knight's lore, including the revelation that Bruce Wayne's mother, Martha, is alive. This alteration transforms Batman from a solitary figure into one with familial ties, adding layers of vulnerability and strength.

Snyder admitted, “Deciding to keep Martha alive was a challenging decision. It shifts the dynamic, making her the moral compass of the story, while Bruce navigates his youthful idealism and vulnerabilities. Her presence adds a new dimension to Batman's character.”

Another notable change is Bruce's childhood connection to future villains like Waylon Jones, Oswald Cobblepot, Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, and Selina Kyle. In this universe, they form an extended family, influencing Bruce's journey to becoming Batman.

Snyder teased, “Without global training, Bruce learns from these childhood friends. Each imparts unique skills and insights, shaping his path to becoming Batman. Their relationships are central to the series, grounding and complicating his mission.”

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

In "The Zoo," Batman confronts the emerging threat of Roman Sionis, aka Black Mask, leader of the nihilistic Party Animals gang. Choosing Black Mask as the primary villain allowed Snyder and Dragotta to explore themes of nihilism and chaos.

Snyder stated, “Black Mask's skull aesthetic fit our theme of a world beyond redemption, where partying amidst destruction is the only response. We reimagined him to fit our narrative while staying true to his essence as a crime boss.”

The climactic battle in issue #6 sees Batman storming Sionis' yacht, delivering a brutal beating while emphasizing his resolve against those who doubt his impact.

Snyder noted, “Batman's lines in this issue encapsulate his spirit. He thrives on being underestimated, using it as fuel to prove his difference-making potential.”

The Threat of Absolute Joker

The series teases the inevitable confrontation with Absolute Joker, portrayed as Batman's wealthy and well-trained antithesis. Introduced in issue #1, and briefly seen at the end of "The Zoo," the Joker is aware of Gotham's new protector but delegates dealing with Batman to Bane.

Snyder explained, “In this inverted system, Batman is the disruptor, while the Joker represents the established order. Their dynamic is central to the series, even when not directly interacting.”

The Absolute Joker is already a formidable psychopath, independent of Batman, hinting at a complex evolution as their paths cross.

Snyder hinted, “This Joker is terrifying before meeting Batman, and their relationship will evolve significantly.”

Dragotta added, “We've planted clues about his power and influence, with JK Industries and the Arks hinting at a larger scheme. The upcoming issues will delve deeper into his storyline.”

Art by Nick Dragotta. (Image Credit: DC)

Issues #7 and #8 introduce Mr. Freeze, with Marcos Martin taking the artistic reins. This arc promises a darker, horror-infused take on the villain, paralleling Bruce's struggles with his newfound responsibilities as Batman.

Snyder expressed excitement, “Marcos Martin brings an emotional depth to these issues. Mr. Freeze's dark path mirrors Bruce's internal conflicts, offering a twisted yet compelling narrative.”

Issue #6 also sets the stage for a confrontation with Bane, raising questions about how his physicality will compare to the hulking Batman.

Snyder confirmed, “Bane will be a formidable presence, designed to make Batman's silhouette look smaller. His size and strength will challenge Batman in new ways.”

Finally, as the Absolute line expands with titles like Absolute Flash, Absolute Green Lantern, and Absolute Martian Manhunter in 2025, Snyder hinted at future interconnectivity within the Absolute Universe.

Snyder said, “While currently standalone, we're planning for these characters to start influencing each other's stories in 2025, creating a more interconnected narrative.”

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