Review: Absolute Batman #2

Wepppaaaaaaa….Since the beginning, Absolute Batman has provoked the most attention not only from ardent batman followers but also the comic book fraternity as a whole. With a story penned down by Scott Snyder, Nick Dragotta as the illustrator, and Frank Martin as the colorist, this particular issue continues the grim reimagining of Gotham, as we are offered a more exclusive view of the relationships that Batman has and his continued battle against the Black Mask Gang.

In this updated/modern version, Batman is set against the protagonist’s nemesis or enemies who are famous name from Gotham but in a new appearance. What supports most exposition in this tale is the relationship that exists between Bruce Wayne and his former teacher Alfred Pennyworth even though in the circumstance he is the antagonist. As we progress writing, we realize that Batman’s ruthless methods of fighting crime have escalated hostilities not only between him and his opponents such as Masquerade and Black Mask but him and his allies as well including Alfred. That is a viewpoint that reinforces the curse of a violent Gotham where the distinction between hero and villain is impossible and readers have to be concerned about the meaning of justice within such a city.

In this conflict, Batman faces his mentor and loyal ally: Alfred. Furthermore, it enables them to witness his internal conflict in a way that transforms the essence of what it means to be Batman beyond recognition. What is especially interesting in this context is Alfred’s moral diametrical relation with MI6 in connection with Batman’s unyielding quest for justice.

This is extended through the use of flashbacks of Bruce‘s childhood; capturing the moments of grief and anger which have driven him to his current state. Their scenes together are remarkably emotional, placing Alfred‘s calculated strategy in stark contrast to Batman‘s brutal methods.

At the same time, beta Bruce Wayne’s social circles which include these major events in Gotham like that of the Jim Gordon & Martha Wayne provide great amount of perspective: suggesting how Martha visiting Gordon explaining the situation which relates to their worries regarding Bruce’s excessive usage of brutality, while the scenes of Bruce when he was young helps visualize the reasons why he never gives up. Oswald Cobblepot, Edward Nygma and Harvey Dent are back as friends in this very strange card game. It’s a proper flaunting and reboot as well for these characters put them into a very different world filled with hostage and treachery.

Dragotta‘s artistry takes this issue to the next level by setting a cinematic experience through the panel structures. His rapid-fire, compact panels almost have a great effect in relaying the constant pace in which Batman works, with elements reminiscent of The Bourne Identity, with fast cuts and disorienting flow. Contrasting panels like these were wide-framed expansive shots that really gave oomph to key moments, like Batman dramatically appearing atop a flaming skyscraper, revealing the formidable Absolute Batmobile.

The coloring work by Frank Martin is instrumental in setting the tone. His palette glides seamlessly from a rich, brooding set of tones into stark, vibrant colors to enhance a scene’s emotional load. Most striking perhaps is Bruce’s flashback with a whole range of blood-red to tie in with traumatic memories and their after-effects. Additionally, Martin plays with the warm and cool tones: the intense orange of a blazing building in a dark Gotham skyline allows the high-stakes drama in this issue to soar.

Scott Snyder‘s script in Absolute Batman #2 moves at a breakneck pace. He blends exposition and action organically in a way that the urge of urgency is relayed. Throughout this story, it leaps to and from between flashbacks and present-day events, which places the readers in the middle of the intensity of Batman‘s inner turmoil. With this kind of quick pacing, Snyder achieves a distinctive rhythm-a reflection of the disorganized and crazy nature of Gotham and the frenetic determination of Batman in tearing down organized criminal networks.

At the heart of the issue is Batman’s growing brutal methods. Snyder casts Batman as an avatar willing to do whatever it takes to eradicate crime-a deeply profound question of ethics and morality. This interpretation, a more brutal one, of Batman places him closer to the very criminals he hunts, eliminating the barrier between justice and vengeance. Snyder’s take on Batman certainly challenges traditional views of the character, offering up one much darker and more introspective than the iconic hero readers are used to.

Although Batman’s crusade against evil is entertaining, one has to question how the Batman Writers portray Black Mask and his Party Animals. Theoretically menacing, Black Mask comes off as a bit of a loner. His lack of detailed origins and development make it difficult to see him as a real nemesis. As with Snyder’s previous tale involving the Court of Owls, the entire arc of constructing his motivations is rudimentary at best. This relegates Black Mask to the role of an antagonist and nothing more. This is a real loss, as it detracted from what would have made for an otherwise interesting narrative with high stakes and an emotional impact.

With Snyder’s narrative properly written and Dragotta’s art with different styles of paneling, the issue gives a new perspective on Batman and his mission. The story, especially during the character interactions or Batman’s relationships with Alfred, enhances the exchange and adds an emotional depth to the action. There are some occasional errors made when it comes to the Black Mask, but Absolute Batman #2 is recommended for anyone who wants to read about the Dark Knight in more alternative and crime noir style. And here, it is an even better follow-up, promising even more thrilling events in the future issues.

4.5/5

Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Nick Dragotta
Colors: Frank Martin
Letterer Clayton Cowles
Published by DC Comics

Author Profile

Al Mega

I'm Al Mega the CEO of Comic Crusaders, CEO of the Undercover Capes Podcast Network, CEO of Geekery Magazine & Owner of Splintered Press (coming soon). I'm a fan of comics, cartoons and old school video games. Make sure to check out our podcasts/vidcasts and more!