Absolute Batman #1 Review: An Absolute Blast

In the endless stream of Batman stories, Absolute Batman #1 stands out as a fresh and intriguing Elseworld take on the Caped Crusader. This debut issue deftly weaves familiar characters into unexpected roles, creating a series of surprises that will keep even the most seasoned Batman fans on their toes.

**Warning: Spoilers Ahead**

What was most striking to me reading this first issue was how writer Scott Snyder decided to completely reshape Bruce Wayne‘s classic origin story. Instead of Bruce’s parents getting gunned down in the dark crime alley on that fateful night, the murder happens in broad daylight in a public zoo. Thomas Wayne is a school teacher taking his class on a field trip, of which Bruce is one of his students, and in a poignant reflection of the chaos that has become all-too-common in America, he sacrifices himself to protect the children from an active shooter.

Martha Wayne remains alive and raises Bruce instead of Alfred, who has no relation whatsoever with the Wayne family. Alfred Pennyworth is reimagined as an independent agent and assassin, willing to use lethal force, creating a stark contrast with Batman’s no-kill policy.

Bruce maintained his morals raised by a single mom and finds himself in the company of childhood friends who, in other universes, would become his greatest foes. Harvey Dent, Edward Nygma, Selina Kyle, Oswald Cobblepot, and even Waylon Jones, who carries around reptiles as the owner of the Croc’s Gym, where Bruce trains. Needless to say, this reimagining of relationships sets the stage for potentially complex dynamics as the series progresses.

While Bruce’s friends haven’t yet donned their alias counterparts, Batman is making his debut in Gotham as a hulking beast to be feared. While adhering to a no-kill rule, he’s portrayed as a brutal force, willing to seriously injure and even dismember his opponents. His costume is packed with lethal ingenuity, featuring a cape with wing-like claws that double as grappling hooks, detachable Batarang ears that double as blades, and a chest emblem that transforms into a formidable axe.

Bruce’s preparation for his role as Gotham’s protector goes beyond mere physical training. He’s worked various jobs throughout the city, including construction and city planning, to gain intimate knowledge of how Gotham operates.

Gotham itself faces a terrifying new threat in the form of the Party Animals, a gang led by a grotesquely reimagined Black Mask. These criminals, wearing imposing black skull masks, are on a random and senseless killing spree. The tension in Gotham is palpable, with Jim Gordon – now the city’s mayor after being a former cop – struggling to address the crime wave.

The issue builds to a dramatic showdown between Batman and the Party Animals outside the courthouse, where Mayor Gordon is giving a speech. This set-piece not only showcases Batman’s combat prowess but also highlights the public’s growing desperation for a solution to the city’s crime problem.

In a twist ending, Alfred confronts Batman at his hideout—not the traditional Batcave but an open skyscraper construction site high above the clouds. I can’t help but see his aerial base of operations as a symbol of Batman’s elevated position as Gotham’s watchful guardian.

The epilogue delivers perhaps the most tantalizing tease of all: The Joker is reimagined as a billionaire who never laughs, operating under various aliases. Perhaps with all the money in the world, the only thing left to have fun doing will be committing crime.

This debut issue boldly departs from the traditional Batman narrative, offering readers a fresh perspective on beloved characters and dynamics. While purists may balk at some of the more drastic changes, the issue succeeds in creating a compelling alternate universe that begs to be explored further.

For those who enjoy Elseworlds tales or are simply looking for a new take on the Dark Knight, Absolute Batman #1 is an absolute must-read. With its unique blend of familiar elements and startling innovations, it promises to be a series that will keep readers guessing and coming back for more.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Batarangs