So, I don't know if you guys are familiar with DC's new "Absolute" line of comic books. It's basically taking their established characters and starting from scratch with a new continuity aligned with more modern tastes. Or with an eye towards accessibility, I suppose. Although not really, because almost all of the characters/concepts are just going to be regurgitated from the existing lore. A "reimagining" if you will.
Absolute Batman is the initial foray, and I've read the first issue. It's kind of messy. One of the criticisms I see leveled at Batman in recent history is that he's just a rich white "cop" who goes around beating the shit out of struggling brown people. Which, while reductive, isn't entirely without merit. Absolute's answer to this is to take away Bruce Wayne's wealth.
He's just a common man
Working hard with his hands
They haven't addressed it yet, but I really hope they get around to it eventually: if Batman has limited resources now, how did he manage to research, develop, and manufacture his suit and various gadgets? Because that shit can't be cheap.
They've also introduced Alfred so far, who seems to be this badass secret service type dude. I wonder if the two of them will eventually partner up, and that's how this Batman will end up with some kind of budget. But then won't he just be a dog of the government? Is that any better than an independently wealthy brute?
Like I said, it's only the first issue, so time will tell.
One thing I neglected to mention, Bruce's fellow poverty pals that he grew up with seems to be mostly comprised of all the people who will eventually go on to become his greatest enemies. How convenient! How stupid and lazy.
Oh, and they made Bruce a real thicc boy here. I'd say he most resembles Frank Miller's depiction of Batman in the Dark Knight Returns. He's a real California redwood of a man.
I'm not sure what the full breadth of the Absolute line will be. I do know they're also doing Superman and Wonder Woman, and I'm probably most interested in Wonder Woman, because God knows DC has never figured out what to do with her. I wonder if any character has been rebooted as frequently as she has. "New creative team, new creative direction" is practically her slogan at this point.
