Absolute Joker: The Ultimate Villain Unveiled

Absolute Batman has emerged as one of DC's most significant comic book launches in recent years. The debut issue became the best-selling comic of 2024, and the series has consistently topped sales charts, a testament to its appeal and the readers' enthusiastic response to this bold and often surprising reinvention of the Dark Knight.

With the completion of the first story arc, "The Zoo," creators Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta took time to discuss with IGN how Absolute Batman challenges the conventional Batman narrative. Dive into their insights on crafting a more muscular Batman, the impact of Bruce Wayne having a living mother, and the looming threat of Absolute Joker.

Warning: Full spoilers for Absolute Batman #6 follow!

Absolute Batman #6 Preview Gallery

11 ImagesDesigning Absolute Batman

In the Absolute Universe, Batman's design is an imposing force, characterized by his massive muscles, shoulder spikes, and various enhancements to the traditional Batsuit. This distinctive look earned Absolute Batman a spot on our list of the 10 greatest Batman costumes of all time. Snyder and Dragotta shared the creative process behind this formidable vision of the Dark Knight, emphasizing a Batman without the usual wealth and resources.

"Scott's vision was to go big," Dragotta explains to IGN. "He wanted the biggest Batman we've seen, and when I initially drew him large, Scott pushed for even larger, almost Hulk-like proportions."

Dragotta elaborates, "The design's essence is boldness and iconicity, reflecting who this character is. Every element, from his emblem to his suit, is a weapon, transforming the utility belt into an entire arsenal. This concept will continue to evolve."

For Snyder, making Batman physically imposing was crucial. Unlike the classic Batman, whose wealth is a superpower, this Batman relies on his sheer size and presence to intimidate Gotham's criminals.

"The classic Batman's wealth is part of his intimidation factor," Snyder notes. "But without that, this Batman's size, physicality, and the utility of his suit become his tools to confront villains who believe they're untouchable."

The influence of Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns is evident, particularly in a striking homage in issue #6 to Miller’s iconic (and surprisingly divisive) Dark Knight Returns cover, where Batman is depicted leaping through the air against a lightning bolt.

"Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli's storytelling deeply influenced me," says Dragotta. "The homage to Dark Knight Returns felt necessary and fitting."

Giving Batman a Family

Absolute Batman redefines many aspects of the Dark Knight’s mythology, most notably by revealing that Bruce Wayne's mother, Martha, is alive. This alteration transforms Batman from a solitary figure into one with a family, significantly raising the stakes for him.

"Deciding to keep Martha alive was a major decision," Snyder admits. "It adds a moral compass and a vulnerability to Bruce, enriching the character and the story. Her presence influences Bruce's actions and adds depth to the narrative."

Another significant change introduced is Bruce's childhood friendship with characters like Waylon Jones, Oswald Cobblepot, Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, and Selina Kyle, who are traditionally his adversaries. In this universe, they form an extended family that shapes Bruce's journey to becoming Batman.

"These relationships are central to the story," Snyder explains. "Bruce learns the underworld from Oswald, fighting from Waylon, logic from Edward, politics from Harvey, and more from Selina. It's a core element of his development."

In "The Zoo," Absolute Batman establishes his presence in Gotham as new supervillains emerge. The arc focuses on Roman Sionis, aka Black Mask, leader of the nihilistic Party Animals. Snyder and Dragotta considered creating a new villain but chose to revamp Black Mask, highlighting his nihilistic worldview.

"Black Mask's aesthetic and ethos fit perfectly with our story," Snyder says. "We molded him into a fresh character while staying true to his crime boss roots."

The confrontation between Batman and Black Mask in issue #6 escalates as Batman storms Sionis' yacht, delivering a brutal beatdown. Despite not crossing the line into murder, Batman's victory is emphatic, underscoring his underdog status in this universe.

"Batman's defiance and determination are central to his character," Snyder comments. "He uses others' doubts as fuel, pushing against the notion that change is impossible."

The Threat of Absolute Joker

As Batman rises, the looming presence of Absolute Joker is felt. Teased since issue #1, this Joker embodies everything Batman traditionally represents - wealth, global training, and a serious demeanor.

"In this inverted system, Batman disrupts while Joker represents order," Snyder explains. "Their dynamic is always at the core of any Batman story I write."

Absolute Joker is already a terrifying figure by the time he meets Batman, hinting at a complex evolution as their paths cross more directly.

"This Joker has been terrifying from the start," Snyder hints. "His relationship with Batman will evolve significantly."

"Joker's power and master plan are already in motion," Dragotta adds. "His storyline is one to watch."

Issues #7 and #8 introduce Mr. Freeze to the Absolute Universe, with Marcos Martin taking the artistic reins. This arc promises a darker, horror-infused take on the iconic villain.

"Marcos brings an emotional depth to Mr. Freeze's story," Snyder says. "It mirrors Bruce's struggles with his identity and survival, offering a twisted perspective on Freeze."

Bane is another looming threat, with Snyder confirming his imposing size: "Bane is really big, making Bruce's silhouette look smaller."

Looking ahead, the Absolute line, which includes Absolute Wonder Woman and Absolute Superman, will expand with new titles in 2025. Snyder hints at future interactions among the Absolute Universe characters, promising a more interconnected narrative.

"We're planning how these characters will interact and affect each other," Snyder says. "Expect more of that in 2025."

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