Absolute Batman #15 Review

Another week, another Absolute Batman hits the shelves, but this issue is not like any other – this issue is the origin story of Absolute Joker. Buckle up for one of the most disturbing reads of the series so far! Absolute Joker really pushes the bar, but let’s talk about that in our Absolute Batman #15 review.

This review will be spoiler-free. However, we do recommend you read the previous issues before continuing.

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The Review

Image by DC Comics

Last issue we saw the Batman and Catwoman work together to finally defeat the abomination, Bane. But Bane was just the beginning. The Joker is now taking the mantle in Absolute Batman‘s newest arc, Absolute Joker.

This issue really was something special, but something we really need to talk about is this universe’s Joker, since this is the first deep dive into this version of the character. We have literally been teased about the Joker since issue #1, and after 15 issues I can finally say… it was worth the wait.

Absolute Batman #15 was not the most riveting of stories – you would not expect it to be, as it is essentially an origin story, but it really does lay the ground works for an exceptional arc, and perfectly leads us into the Absolute Wonder Woman crossover. Scott Snyder is telling such a unique story for all of these iconic characters, but this is by far the most unique.

We already saw in the last issue how monstrous the Joker can be with him ‘setting Bane free’ by killing his family with an airstrike in their village. This issue brings a more primitive tone to his personality, with him quite simply hunting a man for fun. Primitive feels like the only word to describe this Joker, a man who does not value humanity, and just keeps those who are useful to him alive. Unfortunately, we will be waiting a couple of months before we see exactly what Joker has planned for Batman, but expect complete chaos.

Image by DC Comics

One thing that is a concern of min, is that we are seeing all these icons a little too early. Sure, it has felt like a long wait for the Joker, but in reality, this series could last for a hundred issues, and we are only on issue #15. There is, of course, so much more to explore in this universe, but I do not want Scott Snyder to lay out all the cards right away. That’s not to say I’m not still loving every second of this series, I just don’t want such a strong start to underwhelm the series’ future.

This fear, of course, does not take away from this issue being a great read. I had said in my last review of Absolute Batman about Abomination being a hard arc to follow. Well, judging from this issue alone, it is looking like the Absolute Joker is going to take the mantle.

Colourist Frank Martin is back to bring this issue to life, this time joined by artist Jock. I am not too familiar with Jock’s work, but it is quite terrifying. He really did an exceptional job with this issue, and I look forward to seeing his talent shine in the future.

This issue reads more like a horror story than a hero story, but still somehow manages to blend both genres. Overall, a worthy addition to the series, and an even more worthy start to what is easily going to be the most unique Batman story ever told.

Image by DC Comics

Absolute Batman #15 serves as a great origin for the Absolute Joker and is a fantastic segue into the next story arc. Even for just an origin story, Absolute Batman #15 is one of the most unique and horrifying issues of the comic to date.

What are your thoughts on the Absolute Batman #15 and Joker’s new look? Whatever your thoughts and feelings, share them with us in the comment section of this article or on our Instagram page. Until next time, thank you for reading!

See also: Previous issue

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