Absolute Catwoman’s Debut Wasn’t the Most Shocking Debut in Absolute Batman #13

by

What makes the Absolute Universe so enjoyable is its unpredictability. The series has consistently delivered surprising twists and revelations, particularly for characters like Hawkman and Green Arrow. This trend has been consistent throughout the run of Absolute Batman, where Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta have consistently taken creative risks and pushed boundaries with each issue.

This situation is similar, and it will likely lead to unexpected consequences.

Issue #13 of *Absolute Batman* features writing by Scott Snyder, art by Nick Dragotta, colors by Frank Martin, and lettering by Clayton Cowles. It sets the stage for upcoming events, introduces a new mystery, and reveals another surprising character!

How is Batman dealing with his past trauma in this issue?

If you’ve been following *Absolute Batman*, you’ll know the series frequently uses flashbacks to explore the history of Bruce Wayne and his relationships. Recent issues have focused on the developing romance between Bruce and Selina Kyle, and their attempt to negotiate with Gotham’s mob bosses. Their goal is to arrange a deal that would allow their friend, Waylon Jones, to profit from a fixed fight, even though he’d lose.

They’re toasting their scheme, but it only works if the other person agrees to participate. Waylon, however, doesn’t want to fix the fight, especially when he stands to earn more by fighting honestly. He wants a fair match. This series really explores a central question: when faced with a moral challenge, is it okay to compromise your values, or is it better to stay true to your principles?

This issue reveals that Bane was actually paid off by the Joker. Because of this, he believes everyone – including Batman – can be bought. It makes sense considering how deeply Batman was affected by his time in Arkham, particularly the experience with Venom, which is powerfully shown in a stunning two-page illustration by Dragotta.

I really dig the title, “Abomination,” because it totally fits the story. Seriously, *everything* feels messed up – not just the crazy looks of Bane and Batman, or all the brutal injuries everyone takes, but the whole depressing idea that money can control anyone. That difference in belief is a big part of what sets Batman and Catwoman apart, too. It’s like they see the world in completely different ways because of it.

How do Batman and Catwoman look at the world differently?

Alfred Pennyworth didn’t like Catwoman to begin with, considering her history, and he likes her even less after she defeated him in a fight.

However, Batman has an attitude with Catwoman, as well.

The core problem is that Selina’s helmet clearly utilizes technology from Black Mask – a nice callback to the first story arc and Dragotta’s excellent design work. More importantly, we’re seeing a real divergence in how Bruce and Selina view life. Bruce, as Alfred pointed out earlier, is always focused on moving forward and never backing down. But Selina’s past experiences with Bruce show that they *used* to be more flexible and willing to compromise.

It’s obvious they’re in love now that they’re together, but they’re questioning whether love alone will be enough. Despite this, Catwoman continues to team up with Batman on patrol, and there’s a fantastic nod to *The Dark Knight Returns* illustrated by Dragotta – those unexpected references in comics are always a treat! It reminds me of a similar, surprising homage to Marshall Rogers that Chris Mooneyham included in an issue of *G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero*.

Next, we’re introduced to the Red Hood gang, and we finally learn who’s in charge: Harley Quinn! It’s a really exciting moment.

The issue’s strongest moment comes at the very end. Batman publicly announces himself to Gotham City via a broadcast, challenging Bane to a confrontation at a designated spot. This sequence, crafted by Dragotta and Martin, is brilliantly done. It feels reminiscent of the iconic work of David Mazzuchelli and Frank Miller, but manages to be original and impactful. It’s similar to how Stephen Sondheim masterfully builds upon his influences – you can recognize the inspiration, but the final product is uniquely his own and incredibly well-executed. While Nick Dragotta probably isn’t often compared to Sondheim, his work deserves that level of praise.

This comic is both incredibly energetic and meticulously crafted – it’s surprisingly easy to follow despite its complexity. It’s a fantastic example of how talented artists can completely transform the way we experience a comic book narrative. While Scott Snyder’s work on *Absolute Batman* is excellent, Dragotta and Martin really elevate the ideas and characters, creating a truly unique and satisfying read – one of the best in comics right now.

The upcoming clash between Bane and Batman is exciting, but honestly, it’s the way the other characters are growing and changing that *really* makes this comic book special.

Read More

2025-10-16 06:10