After all this time, it comes down to this moment.
Jack Grimm’s meddling in Bruce Wayne’s life has made monstrous impressions on the young man. Everything from the Zoo incident to Tim Drake’s death, Grimm has played a part in Wayne’s greatest tragedies.
After defeating Scarecrow, Wayne now looks to end the fight once and for all!
ABSOLUTE BATMAN #25 by Scott Snyder, Nick Dragotta, Frank Martin, & Tom Napolitano (DC COMICS) presents Batman vs. JOKER!
Let’s take a look at this long awaited showdown!
ABSOLUTE BATMAN #25 by Scott Snyder, Nick Dragotta, Frank Martin, & Tom Napolitano (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Snyder gives this showdown its’ proper spotlight, but not before adding in more bells and whistles. After the opening flashback with the “gang”, Wayne crashes Grimm manor. What he finds inside is more shocking than expected. Seeing his friends/rogues waiting for an intervention is a bold move. The dialogue walks a fine line of disillusion that has been seen before. This time, it strikes a deeper chord with Waylon Jones response.
The conversation is honest in intention but far from effective. Once Batman makes his choice, its all speed ahead to the showdown. Readers watch as the creepy build conveys the fears Bruce has been dealing with and conquering. With each blow, the fight becomes more unhinged. One could say Bruce is fighting his own demons at the same time. Dialogue here is sharp while escalating matters. Its resolution was cliche but the right call while leaving room for more. This pushes an epilogue with heavy emotion behind it. However, the shock of all shocks is the final page. Expect much online reaction to this. Solid script to give the fight its proper due.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!
Dragotta and Martin give a steady opening look with the flashback sequence. It grows stronger once Batman arrives for the intervention. The art locks in on the bursting rage until the “gang” is waiting in a near full page shot. As each person says their peace, Bruce’s reactions grow even more enraged. It escalates the drama perfectly to send Bruce to the main event ready to go.
Grimm’s calm presences in his “baby coat” is terrifying. The none grid set-up kickstarts the action in style. The horrific full image of Joker in true form makes a bold impact. Batman’s defiance in the face of evil is unavoidable. It moves events to a non-stop slugfest. Panels go for broke with the violence. Readers get a high level heavyweight bout. This fight isn’t for the weak stomached. Its’ ending is more subdued but extends the story out for a stronger rematch, The epilogue pages wrap up events on a high note with the final full page changing everything. The art always brings a certain flare to Wayne’s revolving drama.
FINAL GRADE: 9.8
Bruce Wayne vs. Jack Grimm…nuff said. Snyder crafts an extreme showdown with superb writing. Dragotta and Martin capture the chaos with exceptional art. Absolute Batman continues to be the pacesetter for all comics at the LCS.
Let me know your thoughts on Absolute Batman #25 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
