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Ben Affleck and Robert Pattinson’s Batman Successor Takes the Spotlight

Batman has long been one of the most iconic characters in comics, with some of Hollywood’s most famous actors stepping into the cape and cowl over the years. Michael Keaton, Christian Bale, Ben Affleck, and Robert Pattinson each brought their own interpretation to the character, leaving their mark on Gotham City.

Now, with the cinematic future of Batman uncertain due to delays to both the new DC Universe (DCU) reboot, The Brave and the Bold, and Matt Reeves’ The Batman Part II, a new chapter for the Dark Knight is being written in DC Comics’ “Absolute Universe.”

"Absolute Batman" comic book cover
Credit: DC Comics

DC’s Absolute Universe, launched in 2024, is offering a fresh and modern approach to its iconic heroes. Superman is reimagined as a darker, more brooding figure, while Wonder Woman is now a character who was raised in Hell. “Absolute Batman,” however, stands out, offering a version of the Dark Knight who is a gym rat, grounded and determined by a more personal sense of justice.

This new version of the character is far from the billionaire playboy we’ve known in the past. Instead, he’s a 24-year-old civil engineer working by day and fighting crime by night. His journey is raw and relatable, offering a Batman that feels connected to the real world while still embodying the hero Gotham deserves.

The Batarang in a wall in 'Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice'
Credit: DC / Warner Bros.

Related: ‘Batman’ Reboot Introduces a Game-Changing Batmobile

When “Absolute Batman” #1 hit stores on October 9, 2024, it quickly became the best-selling comic of the year. Snyder and Dragotta’s collaboration has resonated with readers, with the first issue introducing a Caped Crusader unlike any before. This fresh take on Bruce Wayne, one where he’s no longer a billionaire but instead a hardworking hero, has brought the Dark Knight into a new era.

The series has gained traction not only for its compelling story but also for its visually dynamic art. “Absolute Batman” #4, for instance, further explores Bruce Wayne’s transformation into Batman, revealing key moments in his journey that fans have found both intriguing and emotional.

Michael Keaton firing his grapple-hook in 'Batman' (1989)
Credit: DC / Warner Bros.

Related: Justice League Overhauled: Affleck, Cavill, and Gadot Out in New DC Universe

With The Brave and the Bold delayed, and The Batman Part II also pushed back to 2027, the future of the character on the big screen remains uncertain. There have even been whispers that Pattinson’s Batman could become part of the new DC Universe, offering fans a more seamless transition into the next phase of DC films.

But for now, “Absolute Batman” has emerged as the leading successor.

L to R: Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman fighting Doomsday in 'Batman v Superman'
Credit: DC / Warner Bros.

While “Absolute Batman” may not replace the cinematic versions of the character, it’s carving out a new chapter for the iconic superhero in comics. This version, alongside reboots of Superman and Wonder Woman, proves that there’s still room for fresh takes on classic heroes. As the Absolute Universe continues to evolve, fans can rest assured that Batman’s legacy will continue to thrive in exciting new ways.

“Absolute Superman” issues 1-3, “Absolute Wonder Woman” issues 1-3, and “Absolute Batman” issues 1-4 are on sale now.

Have you read “Absolute Batman” yet? Let us know in the comments below!

Daniel

Dan is a huge fan of Star Wars, Disney, Jurassic Park, Ghostbusters, TMNT and Harry Potter, and has written for numerous film-focused and Disney-related sites, including Epicstream, Theme Park Tourist and Homey Hawaii. He has also recently completed his first children's novel, which he hopes to get published within the next year.

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