Nah nah nah BATMAN
It’s time to return to Gotham with issue #2 of Absolute Batman, and it certainly doesn’t miss!
Minor Spoilers Ahead
This issue brings a bit more variety to the table, with plenty of action, quieter moments, and even some humor. As we move deeper into the five-issue “Zoo” arc, we’re getting to know not only Batman himself, but also his friends and family. There’s something very strange about seeing Bruce Wayne playing poker with his rogue’s gallery.
Batman is a total menace here. In some panels, you can actually see knives sticking out of his back as he fights the Party Animals gang. Not brutal enough? How about him burning his enemies’ feet with hydrochloric acid? This Batman has no restraints. He’s also without the wealth and fame we’re used to, so seeing him rely on his ingenuity to get by is really cool. It reminds me a lot of Robert Pattinson’s take on Batman.
The story introduces several plot threads that will likely be expanded in later issues, but it’s done tastefully. The dynamic between Bruce and Alfred is especially intriguing—it’s a big departure from the traditional Batman mythos, and I’m curious to see if we’ll eventually get Alfred as the classic butler or something entirely different.
I have to mention the Batmobile in this universe—it’s absolutely brilliant. Please, DC, turn this into a Lego set.
My one complaint is that DC didn’t do a good job binding these comics. Both of my copies of Absolute Batman have had the staples come loose from the middle pages. I’ve never had this issue before, and it’s pretty infuriating, especially for a $4.99 comic. DC, do better, please.
Another fantastic issue from Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta that is worthy of picking up. The Absolute universe is building quickly and is the most exciting thing from DC in years.
Check out my reviews for the other Absolute titles!
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