ABSOLUTE BATMAN #17 (DC COMICS)
Gotham City is seeing green these days.
Ark-M has been the home of some of the most dangerous individuals in the Absolute Universe. One of which is Dr. Pamela Isley. The doctor has vengeance on her mind. This is a version of the Batman rogue that might be more deadlier than her DCU counterpart. Is that even possible? Only one way to find out!
ABSOLUTE BATMAN #17 by Scott Snyder, Eric Canete, Frank Martin, & Clayton Cowles (DC COMICS) introduces ABSOLUTE POISON IVY to readers in a terrifying way!
Let’s take a closer look at how this debut plays out.
ABSOLUTE BATMAN #17 by Scott Snyder, Eric Canete, Frank Martin, & Clayton Cowles (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Isley’s debut is tailor made for Snyder’s writing strengths. The tragic origin leads off the chapter. It teases the loss of youthful hope. Events quickly move into a soft showing of what this version of Ivy can do. The event is a frightening display. Once Batman makes his entrance, this leads into a sense of pause with each step. Knowing how grounded this character is, anything with this kind of power display forces caution. Wayne’s response is mixed as he advances. Alfred’s advice is shunned as each stage is completed. Some things never change no matter the universe.
One new factor in play is the public perception of Batman. Snyder stages this with a puzzling truth. This Bruce Wayne has never been one for the spotlight. His reaction to seeing his symbol celebrated splits his emotions down the middle. This ends with a distinct point before moving to other residents. The close-ups of Gotham life also provide their own surprises. It offsets the horrific world he is stepping into with Isley. Readers watch as the stage turns into a green Hell on Earth. There is nothing to prepare for what they will find as Batman meets his target. The moment will be one to have people talking. If that wasn’t enough, just wait for the epilogue. There’s no shortages of incredible storytelling with this chapter.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!
Canete steps in for art duties this go-around. The introduction to young Isley carries a innocence with each panel. Knowing where her story leads, the hope for the future is fleeting. This doubt leads into the present moments. The near full shot of Batman with chainsaws makes a loud arrival into the madness. This moment quickly fades as Isley’s attacks result in true terror. The nightmarish depictions lead the way into a heart of madness.
Readers get some glimpses of “normal” life in Gotham. Wayne’s check-ins on his friends push him into the public life. His reaction to seeing his symbol commercialized leads to a brash expression. This covers up a few more looks into his supporting cast. An excellent full page image breaks down other key characters waiting to impact this arc. Even with these breaks, nothing slides away from the horror feel. Readers witness Isley’s reveal with a striking full page shot. It becomes a tip to a much large iceberg Bats cant avoid. The final story panel sends shivers down spines. It’s a strong enough landing spot, but fans are gifted a hell of an epilogue. The final page drops a bombshell into the mix. This one had it all.
FINAL GRADE: 9.7
The terrors of Gotham City grow their vines in a truly chilling chapter. Snyder dives heavily into the horror aspect with his writing to great success. Canete’s art leans into the nightmare fuel powered by Isley’s green aura. This series keeps exceeding expectations every time out!
Let me know your thoughts on Absolute Batman #17 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
