Absolute Batman #16: Straight to Hell

Absolute Batman #16, written by Scott Snyder, with art by Nick Dragotta, coloring by Frank Martin, and lettering by Clayton Cowles, continues the bold reinvention of the Dark Knight, delivering an issue that feels both deeply personal and mythic. Despite pitting Diana and Bruce against a massive foe, this issue serves as a reflective pause in the larger narrative. Bookended by scenes of Bruce at work, one of the last things defining his humanity, readers also get a look at Harvey and Oz’s physical recoveries in the hospital. With Selina gone and Waylon more beast than man, Bruce is running out of those he can turn to: enter Diana. Snyder also uses this issue to explore the aftermath of recent events, giving a glimpse of not only Harvey and Oz, but also the stadium that was destroyed when Batman faced Bane. Both examples demonstrate the path of destruction that Batman leaves behind, showing the ripple effects of the path Bruce has chosen to go down.

Bruce and Diana journey to Aeaea, where they seek to challenge Akrolis. Taking up the bulk of the issue, these sequences lean fully into mythic fantasy, contrasting the usual urban settings with something closer to epic legend. Dragotta’s visuals excel here, capturing Bruce and Diana’s two-week journey through the strange lands with minimal dialogue and expressive pencils. Martin’s coloring shines and amplifies the tone and atmosphere Dragotta has created. The dynamic between Bruce and Diana is especially engaging, riding the fine line between mutual respect and unspoken tension. Cowles’ lettering is a perfect touch that unites Snyder’s script with the visuals.