Absolute Batman #24: Nothing to Fear

Absolute Batman #24, written by Scott Snyder, with art by Nick Dragotta, colored by Frank Martin, and lettered by Tom Napolitano, is one the finest issues of the series to date. For one, Snyder’s pacing is masterful and build off of the tension from this arc. The issue moves at a breakneck speed, but never feels rushed, building towards a harrowing confrontation with Scarecrow. By the time Batman finally faces him, Snyder and company deliver the kind of showdown that could only happen in Absolute Batman.

Nick Dragotta is firing on all cylinders in this issue. Batman’s showdown with Scarecrow features some of the series’ best body horror yet, but some of his strongest work comes in the earlier in the issue. There are plenty of close-ups throughout the issue, and Dragotta gets an incredible amount of emotion out of his characters’ faces. The TVs showing news reports are another great touch that feels like shades of The Dark Knight Returns while fitting naturally into this version of Gotham.

Snyder also sticks the landing with the introduction of a certain character featured on the cover. The setup may be predictable, especially once readers realize this character is going to suit up, but the execution is so good that it doesn’t matter. Snyder and the creative team seem to take a familiar idea and deliver it with enough finesse to make it feel exciting again. Even when you think you know where it’s going, there’s no guarantee you’re right. This series still feels like it could go anywhere.

Frank Martin continues to prove why he’s one of the most talented colorists working today. His colors bring out everything that makes Dragotta’s artwork so effective, from the truly disturbing body horror to the smallest emotional details. Tom Napolitano is equally important to the experience, finding ways to get the most out of both the art and Snyder’s script. A comic can be read at almost any speed, but this issue puts the reader on the edge of their seat. Just when it seems like the direction is becoming clear, Snyder blows those expectations wide open.