REVIEW: ‘Absolute Catwoman’ Issue 1

Absolute Catwoman Issue 1 is published by DC Comics and written by Scott Snyder and Che Grayson, art by Bengal, colors by Giovanni Niro, and letters by Lucas Gattoni.

Selina Kyle is trying to retire, but she’s brought back by people dressed like her.

This series spins out of the pages of Absolute Batman, honing in on a character that already wants out. Absolute Catwoman Issue 1 begins on Selina Kyle’s birthday. And even as she tries to get out of her thieving lifestyle, the comic instantly erupts into violence. This makes the book’s start immediately engrossing, with explosions and multiple Catwomen appearing.

The structure is also terrific. The comic starts with action and an explosive pace, then slows down and moves back in time before resuming at the exact moment the time jump happened. It allows for so much exposition without damaging the issue’s pacing.

The full history of Catwoman and what she does/did isn’t revealed, but enough mystique is created. And when the comic is moving fast, it doesn’t seem to stop. The action is electrifying, pushing the human body and mechanical machines to their limit. They are wonderful examples of gymnastics and athleticism.

Absolute Catwoman Issue 1 investigates the life of one of the Absolute Universe’s most enigmatic and successful heroes. Unlike Batman, who has made many mistakes in building his career, Selina is much more accomplished. She has her version of the Batcave, with many gadgets and vehicles at her disposal. It gives her confidence and calmness heading into the series.

The core of the character remains consistent with how she comes across in the main universe, and Snyder and Grayson bring more figures into the Absolute Universe, including Holly Robinson, who often appears as Catwoman’s sidekick. Their upbringing as homeless thieves who had to rely on each other remains intact, as does Selina’s protective feelings towards the younger woman.

But Selina’s reputation and abilities are even higher than those of her mainstream counterpart. She has Batman’s skills, wealth, and technology. Some beautifully written moments reconnect Catwoman with the group of friends introduced in Absolute Batman. That relationship is so unique to this universe and is worth treasuring.

The art is glorious, seamlessly integrated with Absolute Batman. In the suit with the large helmet, Catwoman is sleek and professional. Barely any facial expressions are visible due to the design, turning her into a machine. But when the suit is off, there is a much more emotive display from the main character. Her hair is curly, and there is always an elegance to Bengal’s portrayal of Selina.

There is also a significant change in the flashback, where the art presents a much rougher upbringing. But the original hoodie with cat ears remains adorable. Selina climbing the fire escapes of Gotham City is adventurous and exciting. Holly is also superbly designed by Bengal, radiating energy, whilst Catwoman tries to be more content.

The eye-catching introduction of Absolute Catwoman Issue 1 sees a whole host of Catwomen enter Selina’s apartment, all with slight variations. They aren’t quite as high-tech as the genuine article, but it makes for a fascinating first fight. The montage of movement is breathtaking, unleashing a severe catfight.

The violence isn’t quite as furiously gory as in other Absolute comics, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t severe injuries. It just works better with Bengal’s sleek approach. There is also a phenomenal bike chase that doubles as a fight scene. Matching the speed of the movement with a ferocious clash requires intense skill.

The colors are terrific. The shade of the outfit Selina wears is magnificent. At first, it’s a very light shade of purple, but under other light sources, it’s a cool grey that matches her vehicles. For many of the pages, Niro covers the pages in a single, monochromatic shade. Sometimes it’s light blue, other times it’s gray, and at its most extreme, it’s explosive red when everything catches fire. This implements a smooth quality to the comic. When this concept isn’t stuck to, it makes you pay attention. The lettering is always clear and easy to read.

Absolute Catwoman Issue 1 is more than just a spinoff. It’s a fantastic standalone adventure that features one of the coolest figures in the Absolute Universe. Everything about this issue screams sleek, whilst also injecting adrenaline at every point. It presents Catwoman as the finished article, an effective and elite thief, whilst also highlighting the fraught journey that she has had to climb to get there. Even though we learn so much, there are still chasms of mysteries that make the character and the series so intriguing.

Absolute Catwoman Issue 1 is available where comics are sold.