Absolute Batman 2025 Annual #1 Earns Praise for Brutal Artistry and Self-Interrogation

Overview

• Absolute Batman 2025 Annual #1 is in comic stores now, drawing strong notices from But Why Tho? and ComicBook.com.
• The anthology features work by Daniel Warren Johnson, James Harren, and Meredith McClaren, with colors by Mike Spicer and Dave Stewart and lettering by Clayton Cowles.
• Reviewers say the main Johnson story wields extreme violence with intent as Batman confronts violent white supremacists, countered by a pacifist priest who reframes the conflict.
• The Harren-led tale focuses on Black Mask’s Party Animals in a home invasion setup, mixing chaotic action with a subtle emotional payoff.
• The closing Meredith McClaren piece, Let’s Learn About Bats, wins praise for its stylized visuals yet is seen as too brief, and one review highlights the shift from prior Scott Snyder–led entries.