10 Big Questions for Matt Fraction About Batman (Interview)

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In the upcoming fall, the iconic character Batman will undergo a refreshing transformation with “Batman” #1, penned by Matt Fraction and Jorge Jiménez. The comic book will be available in September, offering a new perspective on the DC superhero without completely rebooting his storyline. Instead, it will continue the established status quo of Batman and Gotham City as set forth by Chip Zdarsky, building upon the works of James Tynion IV and Tom King before him. The series promises to return Batman’s classic blue and gray suit and will feature self-contained stories within each issue that contribute to an overall narrative. This new take on Batman is designed for both novice and experienced readers, making autumn 2021 an exhilarating time for fans following the Summer of Superman.

Recently, ComicBook had an engaging conversation with writer Fraction about the upcoming Batman series. Previews of the comic show a modern, vibrant Gotham City featuring a sleek, futuristic design that stands out distinctly from previous portrayals. The storyline promises action-packed scenes and recognizable yet innovative characters, making us excited for this fresh start for one of DC Comics’ most cherished figures. And Fraction was more than happy to share his insights on this dazzling new chapter in Batman’s journey.

Delve into the interview where we ask Matt Fraction ten key queries about Batman, plus an amusing extra question too!

As a passionate cinephile and creator of the latest Batman project, I’ll share my thought process behind selecting villains from the infamous Rogues Gallery. The guiding light, or North star, if you will, was choosing characters that resonated with the story’s themes and would engage viewers in an exciting, dynamic way. This journey took me back to the very roots of Batman’s world, revisiting classic adversaries while also introducing fresh faces to keep things intriguing for both fans and newcomers alike.



Matt Fraction expressed that the essence of his story revolves around exploration of change, cycles, nature versus nurture, and the role of choice in perpetuating situations. He likened it to observing a reptile shedding its skin and becoming something new, using Killer Croc as an example. This narrative offers an opportunity for character development, as Croc may not fully understand or accept this transformation, exhibiting fear and confusion similar to a massive, terrified child with newfound abilities. The process involves brainstorming themes, ideas, and character interactions while also considering the artistic capabilities of illustrator Jorge, and then tailoring the narrative to suit these elements.

I’m going to create my own set of villains for Batman. I have a bunch of DK Publishing encyclopedias and a whole wall filled with my collection. When I find something interesting, I think, “That character is cool, let’s use that.” I mentioned this at San Diego Comic-Con, but it feels like I’ve been sneaking into a Toy ‘R’ Us store after closing time, and no one knows I’m here, just running through the aisles, examining everything. My main inspiration has always been my deep affection for all these characters.

In the course of your story, who among the inhabitants of Gotham City could potentially surprise readers by deviating from their expected roles? After all, you’re in a toy shop; feel free to experiment with these playthings.

I’m hoping to introduce something fresh for all of them. To put it another way, I aim to present something new and find a harmonious way for them all to coexist within this single universe. It’s an intriguing aspect of creating this character, as I soon discovered that not only does he have staying power, but his essence is so adaptable and robust.

In the beginning of their work, [Morrison] posed the question, “What if you truly experienced everything that happened? How would it affect you?” I sometimes find myself wondering, what if these events continue to unfold? What if it’s Killer Croc today, a group of motorcycle-riding ninja assassins tomorrow, and then drug cartel gangs the day after? It’s as if we have the ability to draw from all experiences. With each character that appears, I aim to make them act in ways we understand but also introduce something fresh. There’s an exciting twist on The Riddler coming up, which I found challenging because of the riddles involved. However, I’m looking forward to a unique take on this character. Writing this book is about creating what I would want to read. And if Batman can be versatile, so can his rogues.

It seems like your version of Batman is showing a brighter, even cheerful side. What led you to present Batman in a more vibrant, rather than dark and grimy way?

It seems to me that we’re on the same page about it being Neon Noir or Pop Noir, correct? My reasoning is twofold. Firstly, as a reader, I feel like we’ve been immersed in a gloomy, avocado-hued Gotham for almost two decades now. Secondly, my recent experiences in Tokyo have left an impression on me. The city’s unique districts and neighborhoods all possess such distinct characters, yet they share an extraordinary quality of light that I found captivating everywhere I went. This light, despite the differences between each area, is a common thread throughout the city.

I was curious to explore a place we haven’t visited in a while. I wanted to try something fresh, entertaining, and thought-provoking, and I believe that one of the unique aspects of the DC Universe is its portrayal of cities as characters. Unlike the tired trope of “the city as character,” in DC it holds true. It’s not just New York or Chicago; it’s Metropolis and Gotham. I found myself wondering why people choose to reside in these cities, given their perpetual avocado-like appearance. It seems as though the cities themselves are akin to living, dynamic, evolving characters, which is part of what I wanted to explore.

When I was just 3 years old, my very first comic was Batman #316, which left a profound impact on my mind that nothing else has matched since. This was the time period I grew up in, and it seems we haven’t experienced anything quite like it for a while. For a long time, the best idea I had for this book was to make it reminiscent of Batman’s classic blue and gray costume. You see, he’s still a crime-fighting character and could still be terrifying, but he’s also a superhero. It combines elements of horror and action, making it a unique blend that I wanted to explore in my writing. This is a superhero Batman, not just because he’s the one who originally captured my heart for Batman and comics, but because it’s been a while since we’ve seen such a portrayal.

Since Bruce Wayne is so heavily associated with Batman, in one word, sum up your Bruce Wayne.

Crowded.

As a passionate cinephile, I was recently asked about my thoughts on Batman, and here’s my take: Just as I delved deep into the world of Hawkeye before deciding it wasn’t quite my run (as I realized I had a story but lacked the overarching narrative), exploring Batman requires finding the right on-ramp. It struck me that if one aimed to kill Batman, the most effective approach would be to make Bruce Wayne content. However, the night when Bruce Wayne contemplates staying home is catastrophic, as the survival of these two intertwined souls ensures the perpetuation of each other’s doom. So, in essence, Batman and Bruce Wayne are like unbreakable roommates who, despite their differences, share an enduring bond, each one’s survival leading to the other’s demise. The challenge lies in understanding how they coexist amidst this precarious balance.

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but delve into the intriguing duality of Batman and Bruce Wayne. Often, I find myself emphasizing that my story is essentially a dialogue between these two characters. Yes, there are other players in the scene, yet they all take a back seat to the captivating dance between Batman and Bruce. This unique split identity of mine poses an intriguing question: What if Bruce Wayne experiences joy, will it bring the darkness that is Batman to a halt? So, I see this as the starting point, the on-ramp, the sketch, the beginning of a compelling journey.

Regarding the topic of versatility, Batman’s tools are notoriously either imaginative and prepared for every scenario or incredibly practical. What method do you employ when it comes to designing the Batman equipment, and is there a specific gadget that you’re eager to introduce in this universe?

This character’s essence deeply resonates with me, reflecting my background and appreciation for shows like “Batman ’66.” I loved how everything was clearly labeled, making it easier to understand the Batcave’s gadgets. Similarly, I incorporated a similar concept in my previous work on X-Men, using “Dad Caps” to explain characters without lengthy dialogues. In this project, Jorge designed a weapon wheel that functions like a video game inventory, providing details about each gadget used. This is reminiscent of Batman’s utility belt and its mysteries, enhancing the charm and fun associated with the character.

Is there a preferred character? Yes, I can’t reveal who it is because it would spoil the story, but I do acknowledge that our hero can’t have everything at his disposal. There’s a certain temptation to provide him with an all-purpose item like Bat shark repellent, but that wouldn’t be realistic. Instead, we aim to create situations where he needs something extra to overcome challenges. This is similar to Hawkeye; while he’s skilled and resourceful, even he wouldn’t stand a chance against a 2000-pound man-sized alligator. We strive to find these unique elements and moments to make our characters appear superhero-like with the help of gadgets. In issue two, for example, Robin uses grip boots to escape, which is just one small example of how we incorporate ordinary people into superhero action. We’ve also expanded this concept to include various costumes and accessories. In issue three, there’s a new costume that serves a specific purpose, but it wasn’t explicitly indicated as such. Our artist saw the opportunity to create another gadget, so our characters get to play with new toys and experience exciting scenarios.

I’m drawn to Batman because he possesses unique gadgets, and what I admire most is his intellectual prowess, which sets him apart from the ordinary individual.

Speaking of Jorge and the visuals…

Very handsome, speaking of visuals, [Jorge’s] very handsome.

Let’s imagine someone with limited sight or no vision at all, who can’t fully perceive the artwork in this book. Here’s a description of the art that might help them appreciate it:

This book contains a series of images, each one unique and captivating. The dominant colors in these pieces range from vibrant and bright to soft and muted, creating a rich visual tapestry. The textures in the artwork can be described as smooth, rough, or intricate, offering tactile differences even without sight.

The images themselves are diverse, featuring various shapes and forms that can be imagined through their spatial arrangement and contrasts. Some of these shapes might resemble geometric patterns, while others could be organic or abstract in nature. The artwork may also incorporate lines of varying thicknesses and lengths, serving as guides to help the eye navigate the composition.

In some pieces, there might be a sense of depth or perspective, with elements appearing closer or farther away based on their positioning and size. Additionally, the artwork could include different shades or tones within the same color, creating an illusion of light and shadow that can be felt rather than seen.

Overall, the art in this book is a feast for the imagination, offering a sensory experience that transcends visual perception.

The description suggests that the subject is dynamic or energetic, much like velocity. It’s kinetic and electric in nature. This energy seems to radiate, giving off a sparkling, crackling sensation, similar to ozone. There’s an ethereal quality to it, as if there’s a certain lightness or emptiness. There’s a sense of movement through space, like observing bodies moving underwater, feeling the trajectory of their motion. As a fan, I believe every issue is an opportunity for me to create the ideal Jorge Jiménez Batman comic.

How would you feel if this version of Batman serves as an ideal starting point for many readers? What aspirations do you have for the newcomers diving into your Batman series?

This series is designed so that a 9-year-old can read it without being frightened or confused. The initial story arcs have ongoing plotlines that develop over time, but each issue stands alone as a self-contained adventure to make the comic easy for new readers to jump in. I aim to make this comic appealing to all Batman fans, old and new, and not just accessible, but enjoyable and high-quality. It’s okay if you have questions about how certain characters got to where they are, but you don’t need to know the backstory of every character to understand what’s happening in the story. For example, it doesn’t matter that Jim Gordon used to be a Commissioner; now he’s a beat cop. The villain is still the Commissioner, right? I’m excited about having the opportunity to create this comic and hope that fans of all ages will enjoy it.

If Batman hadn’t played a crucial role in my journey, there wouldn’t be a “me” today. So, let’s create a comic book that will inspire someone 42 years from now to write passionately about it, as this could be their initial venture into the world of comics, igniting a lifelong love for them.

Could you share another significant factor that has shaped your interpretation of Batman, one that might intrigue the audience? Something outside of the first comic that helped establish a tone and served as an inspiration for you?

A psychoanalytic author named [Jean] Laplanche is currently grappling with the task of creating the character of Bruce, and more specifically, Batman. Instead of focusing on their adventures, he’s trying to delve deeper into the comic book world by understanding who this character is that will occupy a significant portion of his creative process. He finds himself introspecting about Bruce, as he has become an intriguing presence in his thoughts and needs to gain some insight into him.

In different parts of the world, you might know a Powell and Pressburger film titled either “A Matter of Life or Death” or “Stairway to Heaven”. John Alton’s stunning cinematography is featured in this movie. It’s as if this film was one of the most breathtaking technicolor movies ever created, so vibrant that it feels like a dayglow comic book should be based on it.

Despite my efforts to distance it from Blade Runner, it seems I’ve ended up making it even more reminiscent of that movie. There’s a lot of rain and neon lights in Blade Runner, but now there’s a resemblance. It’s almost as if I was only taking in half the lessons from Blade Runner before, but now I seem to be absorbing the other half more thoroughly – perhaps it’s the technical cinematography.

What has been, for you, the best thing about writing Batman?

In a straightforward manner, what I’m revealing is that I’ve actually been pondering Batman throughout my entire life, and somehow, people have been compensating me for this. It seems more like a pastime than actual work to me, and it still feels unreal in some way. Perhaps that will change once the book gets published.

It surprised me, but it seems I have some thoughts to share on Batman. To be honest, it’s been an enjoyable and entertaining experience. It truly feels more like a pleasure rather than a chore.

And I have a very silly question. What do you think Batman would order at Dunkin’ Donuts?

A strong, unsweetened brew, similar to an Americano with additional espresso shots, devoid of both sugar and milk. Or, simply put, it’s a very dark roast coffee without any added sweeteners or cream.

Does Bruce Wayne order the same thing?

Instead of saying that Bruce goes out of his way to order elaborate drinks, we can say that Bruce is skilled at customizing expensive Dunkin’ drinks. His orders are quite unique and often involve specific requests like less ice or certain additions. However, it’s important to note that he doesn’t drink these special concoctions himself but gets them for Alfred instead.

Batman #1, written by Matt Fraction with art by Jorge Jiménez, goes on sale September 3rd.

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2025-08-01 18:26