The latest issue of Absolute Batman introduces disturbing transformations that redefine what it means to be a Gotham rogue. Writer Scott Snyder has already given twisted versions of Black Mask, Penguin, and Scarecrow. Now, issue #22 pushes the horror even further by revealing the origins of this world’s Harley Quinn while simultaneously unveiling two reimagined villains.
Absolute Batman #22 introduces new versions of Calendar Man, Tweedledee and Tweedledum
The story primarily follows Harley Quinn as she uncovers dark secrets about her family. Her investigation leads her beneath a seemingly ordinary house, where she discovers a hidden connection to Ark M — the Absolute Universe’s terrifying counterpart to Arkham Asylum. Within these subterranean corridors, Harley stumbles upon inmates whose conditions defy comprehension.
The first encounter presents a fusion of Tweedledee and Tweedledum into a single, nightmarish entity in Absolute Batman #22. Unlike their traditional depiction as twin henchmen working for various crime bosses, these characters now share one body. Their heads, necks, and portions of their backs and shoulders remain horrifically merged together. Although the conjoined figure speaks little, the unmistakable rhythmic sound of “Dee-Dum, Dee-Dum” echoes through the strip.
Additionally, this biological nightmare stands in contrast to their conventional depictions as bumbling yet occasionally effective gangsters. The Absolute Universe strips away any comedic undertones, replacing them with genuine body horror that leaves readers questioning what other experiments Ark M has conducted.
The second reveal is even more grotesque. A corpse lies motionless on the floor, with Roman numerals tattooed across its forehead. Then the movement begins beneath the dead skin. From within the husk, a new form tears its way out, bearing the same markings as its former shell. This rebirth sequence represents the most unsettling version of Calendar Man ever committed to the page.
Traditionally, Calendar Man possesses no supernatural abilities whatsoever. He operates as a criminal mastermind who times his offenses around holidays and significant dates, often serving as an information broker within Gotham’s underworld even while incarcerated. His intelligence, not physical power, made him dangerous.
Both debuts reinforce the Absolute Universe’s commitment to reimagining familiar characters through a lens of visceral horror.
Originally reported by Devanshi Basu on SuperHeroHype.
