As a longtime comic enthusiast and Batman fanatic, I can confidently say that the upcoming Absolute Batman series has piqued my interest like never before. The unique design of our caped crusader, sporting a self-made armor reminiscent of a pickaxe, is an intriguing twist on the classic character.
Few books are as anticpated as DC’s Absolute Batman, which has got people buzzing thanks to its unique character design and shake-up of the typical Batman status quo. Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta have crafted a Batman that is a force of nature, both in terms of his physical stature and in his approach to crimefighting, and DC gets all of the fun started in the DC All In Special, which then leads into Absolute Batman #1. ComicBook had the chance to speak with Snyder and Dragotta all about what inspired their new take on Batman, as well as all the details on the new costume, the new Bat Symbol (which is also a freaking axe), what elements of his suit didn’t make the cut, and even a tease of the new batmobile!
A New Batman for Today
Redesigning such an iconic character as Batman can be tricky, as you don’t want to alter the elements that make him iconic while still making the new design feel fresh. Artist Dragotta aimed to bring something new to the table, while keeping the essence of Batman intact. He explained his thought process as, “I wanted to create a modern Batman, but I didn’t want to stray too far from the nostalgia and rich history that comes with over 80 years of comics. So, you don’t change the overall shape or the core identity of Batman. The ears, cowl, symbol on his chest – those are non-negotiables. But within that structure, I can make changes.” He also mentioned being inspired by Bob Kane’s original drawings and Da Vinci’s “flying man” sketch, which featured a figure with bat-like wings.
After discussing the story and characters with Scott, we decided to draw inspiration from bats and explore their unique abilities. As I researched more about bats, I found them fascinating – they walk on their hands, after all! Scott suggested an intriguing idea: during fight scenes, the character could pop up like a bat and perform stilt walks or kicks. This sparked further imagination, leading us to contemplate programmable capes and other features reminiscent of tent poles in the seams.
Dragotta shared his thoughts on the design of the superhero’s costume: “I love the concept behind the tethers and the cape, especially if they can detach. The idea stemmed from wanting to explore new possibilities while still adhering to good form in art. As an artist, I believe that exceptional superhero costumes should not only be visually appealing but also reflect the body’s contours. This way, the lines of the costume guide the design. Moreover, this character is a DIY enthusiast and city engineer, much like Bruce Wayne, so it makes sense for him to create and use this costume.
Bigger and Better…With an Axe
Zack Snyder stated that he persistently asked Nick for larger designs of Batman, continually expanding the outlines to make him more muscular. He explained, “I would say, bigger, bigger, bigger – his shoulders, everything. His design needed to be massive because this version of Batman was going to be incredibly powerful.” Also, he emphasized that the emblem should also be enlarged for a more impactful appearance, saying, “bigger, bigger, bigger” to convey the idea that this Batman was going to be extremely impressive.
Regarding the emblem, I inquired about the widespread response to the revamped design from Dragotta. Whether they adore it or despise it, Dragotta is content that people are reacting and are managing to stir things up effectively. “Scott phoned and said, haven’t you noticed all the chatter about the emblem? I replied, no, then I took a look and it made me grin because that’s what we got into this for – to mix things up and do something different again,” Dragotta explained. “Our character wouldn’t don the ornate bat symbol. It doesn’t fit his persona. Furthermore, it serves as an axe. So, you know, if we opt for the smaller emblem, you’ve got this formidable creature carrying almost like a miniature pickaxe. From a design perspective, it just seems illogical.
Later, regarding its function, it will shield his vital areas. I wish I could protect a larger portion of his upper body, but this is entertaining and effective. The response is fantastic, which is why we’re doing this. It also demonstrates our commitment to the job, as we aim to elicit a reaction. I understand some confusion stems from believing this is the latest version of Batman. However, let me clarify that this is the True Batman. He will continue to exist alongside your preferred DC universe Batman. Thus, he’s here to stay, and you can still recognize his symbol if that’s important to you. (Dragotta’s statement)
Self Made…Even the Ride
In an interview, Snyder shared some concepts that didn’t ultimately make it into the final version of their Batman storyline. One of these ideas centered around Batman’s friendship with Edward Nygma (Riddler), where Nygma would aid in designing advanced, high-tech gadgets for Batman. For instance, the cape could transform into a spiked arm guard. However, they decided to scrap this idea because it seemed too technologically advanced, which didn’t align with the character’s established persona.
Snyder expressed his enthusiasm about a project he and another artist named Nick are working on together. He described the tools they use as mechanical and DIY, which includes adjustable stilts with retractable hooks and extending spikes. The work process is collaborative, without any ego or attachment to personal ideas. They decide collectively what works best based on the quality of the idea or story element. Nick lives across Long Island Sound in Connecticut, so he takes a ferry over to Snyder’s studio, where they brainstorm and design together on the wall. The process was time-consuming but enjoyable for Snyder.
By the way, you know how Batman isn’t complete without his Batmobile? Well, Dragotta is beyond thrilled for fans to witness what they’ve been working on. “You bet! You’ll see it in issue #2, and when you do, I think everyone will exclaim, ‘Of course!’ It just fits so well, like a glove. It’s perfect, it’s amazing. I can’t get enough of it. In fact, there are several versions of it! Yes, it’s cool. I can hardly wait,” Dragotta shared excitedly.
Fans can check out Absolute Batman when it hits comic stores on October 9th.
Are you looking forward to Absolute Batman? Feel free to discuss anything related to comics and DC Universe with me on Threads or Twitter (@mattaguilarcb)!
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2024-09-15 04:40