Absolute Batman #3

It’s hard to believe we are only 3 issues in and Absolute Batman is already becoming one of my favourite Batman stories to date (though it could never replace the likes of Under the Red Hood.) Though last issue may have been slightly disappointing to some, with a not so good pacing and a poker scene that took up well too many panels, Absolute Batman #3 is looking like real redemption, providing us with the same quality content we saw in the very first issue.

In Nerdy Nook fashion, this review will be spoiler free, however, there may be some slight spoilers from the previous issue – you have been warned. With that, let’s get into the Absolute Batman #3 review.

---

The Review

Image by DC Comics

Last issue felt almost like a filler, despite having important narrative, simply because the action was over so quickly before we jumped full steam into detective mode. It did however finish at an exciting point where Batman and Alfred are forced to evacuate one of Batman’s many hideouts across Gotham after an ambush in the most awesome and monstrous Batmobile you will ever see. Absolute Batman #3 picks up on that after giving us a short introduction of another beloved character, Catwoman.

Selina Kyle has been mentioned in the previous issues (she was even teased at the end of the last one), and to start this issue with another flashback to introduce their relationship in the Absolute universe felt like a bold choice after the pacing of the last issue, a choice which most definitely was well received. Having these to characters know each other from such a young age just felt so natural and believable.

Another great alliance we see progress in Absolute Batman #3, is the classic combo of Alfred and Batman. The relationship between Batman, who gives much less of a fuck than ever, and Alfred, who see’s beyond the tough guy act and realises the intentions of Batman and the good his cause can bring, is a marvellous thing to see unfold. You really feel like you are learning about this characters for the first time. This is not just a Batman comic set in the else world away from the canon, Absolute Batman is becoming the Batman story for a whole new audience – quite frankly one I want to see be told.

But unfortunately all good things come with some bad things and it would be wrong if I did not discuss those matters.

Image by DC Comics

Firstly, Absolute Batman in all its excellence has yet to find that perfect balance between detective work and action, though I have high hopes it will have a better flow as the time goes on. Absolute Batman #3 already improved on this when compared to the previous issue, but sometimes the abrupt change in pace does make it feel like a B plot despite being main narrative.

The other thing we should talk about is the fact that almost everyone in the Absolute universe seems to have a slightly different backstory, all except Selina Kyle – or at least from what I can tell so far. Of course her usual story does fit with this universe so seamlessly, it is almost as if Catwoman has been in the wrong world for all this time, but it made my mind instinctively make too many connections that when I was reading the flashbacks, I forgot I was reading Absolute and not just your run-of-the-mill detective comics.

Something which needs to be appreciated is Bruce Wayne’s connection to villains from the universe we know. Last issue we had poker with Penguin, now we have a man to man conversation with ‘Al’, the Riddler’s all knowing robot. Throughout the series so far, Batman crosses the boundaries between good and bad like never before – the people who he spends his time with has without a doubt played a big part in that.

Image by DC Comics

Absolute Batman is progressively becoming one of the most incredible Batman stories ever told and will continue to do so, as it seems the story grows stronger than ever with every comic. With such a strong narrative, complex relationships and an incredible twist on a universe loved by so many, there is no doubt that this comic has already concreted its place in history and will be enjoyed for years to come by many.

I’ve voiced my love for this series, but let us know your thoughts on the Absolute series so far in the comment section! One thing is for sure, Absolute Batman #4 is going to be an explosive one – what happens next comes down to a deal with the devil.

See also: Previous issue review

• ShareCopied to clipboard
• X
• Facebook