Absolute Batman Creator Wants Anime-Style "Batman Universe," Hopes for Cyberpunk: Edgerunners Studio TRIGGER

Nick Dragotta, the character designer and artist for DC Comics' "Absolute Universe" series "Absolute Batman," recently revealed during a fan Q&A that he "really hopes" to see Japanese animation studio TRIGGER adapt the work into an anime, sparking heated discussion among comic and anime fans.

"Absolute Batman," which officially launched in 2024, is a new parallel universe version co-created by Dragotta and renowned writer Scott Snyder. In this universe, Batman's alter ego, Bruce Wayne, is no longer a billionaire but a 24-year-old Gotham City engineer who builds his own armor to fight crime. The series reimagines classic characters with a grittier, more realistic style, redefining the concept of a "hero."

During an online Q&A event hosted by League of Comic Geeks, Dragotta was asked if he had discussed expanding the "Absolute Universe" into other media, such as animation, film, or toys, with DC or DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn.

In response, Dragotta hinted that fans should keep an eye on the upcoming Wonder Festival in Shanghai, where collaborative toy products from Inart and LPZZ will be unveiled, suggesting that "this is just the beginning."

When asked about his most desired form of adaptation, he stated without hesitation, "I'm not privy to DC's internal plans, but I know their animation quality is consistently excellent. Personally, I'd absolutely love to see an 'Absolute Batman' anime produced by TRIGGER."

His comments immediately sparked fan speculation and discussion. TRIGGER is the Japanese animation studio known for "KILL la KILL," "Little Witch Academia," and the hit Netflix anime "Cyberpunk: Edgerunners." The latter earned global acclaim for its unique visual style and intense emotional depth, even boosting the popularity of the "Cyberpunk 2077" game.

While Dragotta admitted he wasn't aware of DC's licensing and production arrangements, he expressed excitement for such a dream collaboration, stating, "TRIGGER's animation energy and sense of rhythm would be a perfect fit for the world of 'Absolute Batman'."

Currently, the "Absolute Batman" comic has released up to issue #13, having recently concluded its first year arc with Batman's confrontation against a monstrous Bane and a team-up with Catwoman. Regardless of whether an anime adaptation materializes, fans are eager to see this new universe's Dark Knight reborn across more mediums.


via: IGN