Absolute Batman #9: Bane Gets Absolutely Gigantic

DC Comics is poised to unleash a new iteration of Bane in Absolute Batman #9, and the early teases suggest this will be a version of the iconic villain unlike any we’ve seen before. While the Absolute universe has already established itself with a larger-than-life Batman, this Bane promises to be even more imposing, both physically and strategically.

The initial announcement of the Absolute universe was marked by the sheer scale of its Batman. Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta’s reimagining transformed the Dark Knight from a stealthy, shadowy figure into a hulking behemoth, complete with a massive Batmobile and a literal axe embedded in his chest. This wasn’t just a visual update; it was a declaration that the Absolute universe would embrace extremes, pushing the boundaries of familiar characters and concepts.

Now, with the arrival of Bane in Absolute Batman #9, it seems the creative team is doubling down on that philosophy. The solicitations for the June release reveal a Bane who is not only physically immense, but also deeply connected to Batman’s world in unexpected ways.

Dragotta’s cover art provides the first glimpse of this new Bane, and the immediate impression is one of overwhelming size. He’s not merely muscular; he’s colossal, a towering figure who dwarfs everything around him. The visual impact is striking, immediately establishing him as a credible threat to even the Absolute universe’s gargantuan Batman.

The logline accompanying the solicitation offers further intrigue. This Bane isn’t just another villain randomly appearing in Gotham; he’s an "old adversary" of Alfred Pennyworth, Batman’s loyal butler and surrogate father. This connection adds a layer of personal drama to the conflict, suggesting a history between Alfred and Bane that will likely be explored in the issue. The fact that he was summoned to Gotham by the Joker only compounds the sense of orchestrated chaos and sets the stage for a complex power struggle.

Bane’s mission is to prevent Batman from uncovering the secrets of Ark M, a mysterious institution described as contributing "in the creation of evil" within Gotham. This introduces a compelling mystery element to the storyline, hinting at a larger conspiracy that could have far-reaching consequences for the city and its inhabitants. Ark M’s existence suggests that the Absolute universe’s Gotham is even more deeply corrupt and riddled with hidden dangers than previously imagined.

The most terrifying aspect of this new Bane, however, is his methods. He doesn’t rely on subtlety or strategy; he simply overpowers his opponents with brute force. Given his already immense size, the fact that he’s amped up on Venom, the super-steroid that enhances his strength and aggression, makes him a truly terrifying force. The article humorously points out the absurdity of Bane needing a gun when he’s the size of a building, highlighting the sheer scale of his power. This is a villain who could literally crush Batman with ease, fulfilling his infamous comic book trope of breaking the Bat.

In a February interview, Scott Snyder teased a new origin for this Absolute Bane, one that would “speak to the old [backstory].” He emphasized that this new origin would be in conversation with Bane’s established history, but would ultimately make him “even bigger and more dangerous.” Snyder’s words suggest a careful balance between respecting the core elements of the character while pushing him in new and unexpected directions. He promises a Bane who is not just physically imposing but also smarter and more cunning, making him a truly formidable adversary.

The introduction of Bane as an enemy of Alfred’s adds another layer of complexity to the Batman mythos. It raises questions about Alfred’s past and his connections to the criminal underworld. Why would the Joker summon an old adversary of Alfred’s? What secrets does Alfred harbor that Bane is privy to? These questions hint at a deeper, more personal conflict that will likely play out between Batman, Bane, and Alfred.

The release of Absolute Batman #9 on June 11 is highly anticipated by fans eager to see this new Bane in action and to learn more about his connection to Alfred and the secrets of Ark M. The promise of a bigger, scarier, and smarter Bane, combined with the intriguing mystery surrounding Ark M and the personal connection to Alfred, makes this issue a must-read for Batman enthusiasts. This Absolute version of Bane is not just a physical threat; he represents a challenge to Batman on multiple levels, forcing him to confront not only his enemy’s immense power but also the secrets of his own past. The Absolute universe continues to deliver on its promise of pushing boundaries and redefining familiar characters, and this new Bane is poised to be one of its most memorable creations.