There are many stories that have attempted to put a new spin on the mythology of the Dark Knight. Absolute Batman #1 is notable, however, in that it changes enough of the classic formula to truly qualify as a new take. Yet enough of the core character remains to be easily identified as Batman.
The action of this issue centers around soldier of fortune Alfred Pennyworth. Dispatched by his employers to observe a group of masked criminals called the Party Animals, he is told to watch out for a new player tracking the same gang. This mystery party is quickly revealed as the Absolute Batman, whom Pennyworth determines is 24-year-old civil engineer Bruce Wayne.
Through Pennyworth’s eyes, we learn how Absolute Batman differs from the classic Dark Knight. The biggest difference is that Bruce Wayne is a working-class hero of humble origins. He is no longer a billionaire playboy and scion to two of Gotham’s richest families. In the Absolute Universe, Thomas Wayne is a teacher, and Martha Wayne is a social worker. Martha Wayne is also very much alive, a widow following her husband’s death during an active shooter situation.
Absolute Batman still the Dark Knight deep down
The changes Scott Snyder presents in Absolute Batman #1 offer a new perspective on the World’s Greatest Detective. It changes Bruce Wayne’s mission considerably when he has to think of his mother waiting for him at home. He also has to be more careful with his resources, having no Batcave or Batmobile. Indeed, he doesn’t seem to own an ordinary car. He also trains in a local gym and favors weight-training over acrobatics. This alters how he fights, depending on a battle axe (or is that Bat-Tle Axe?) over Batarangs.
There are other changes from the classic mythology, like Jim Gordon being Mayor of Gotham City and Bruce being friends since childhood with some of his potential rogues. The core of Batman remains untouched, however. He is still a genius in a bat costume who uses non-lethal force and creative inventions to protect his city, even if his reasons for dressing as a bat are slightly different.
The artwork by Nick Dragotta proves as familiar as the story. Much has been made about the new Absolute Batman design, from his odd emblem to his heavier build. This is explained through the story, however. The Gothic aesthetic of Gotham City remains untouched, and the action sequences are truly breathtaking.
Absolute Batman #1 manages the impossible, reinventing the wheel into something new while still rolling forward in a familiar fashion. I am not sure where Snyder and Dragotta will go from here. However, I am quite excited to be along for the ride.
Grade: 5/5
Absolute Batman #1 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
