Absolute Batman: The Killing Joke: 30th Anniversary Edition

Batman the Killing Joke is a staple in the history of Batman and anyone would agree and say that it is a comic that should be read. Written by the legendary Alan Moore with artwork from Brian Bolland with the original colour coming from John Higgins but the updated from Brian Bolland. It's a short and powerful story, simply focusing on what one bad day can do to a person, how it can drive them crazy and it does an excellent job. So why should you go for the absolute instead of the deluxe edition? Because this is the definitive version to own, especially considering the price, so for the extra money you get a hardcover slipcase, a larger format, the deluxe edition version of The Killing Joke as well as the original which even uses a more vintage paper and the colours are completely different between the two, and best of all, the original script which is the bulk of this absolute. So if you are a fan of the Killing Joke and are considering the upgrade, just buy it, it is well worth it. This is easily the most premium version you can opt for and because of this quality I am considering getting absolutes of some of my favourite DC comics like The Long Halloween and Dark Victory.If you have never read the Killing Joke, I urge you to pick up this premium format, the only downside is that it is very large so it may not fit on your bookshelf but the extra size is much appreciated when reading. To give an idea of the size I've taken a picture with another of Alan Moore's works Watchmen as it uses the same 9 panel grid as well as a trade paperback and hardcover.Hopefully you found this review helpful and happy reading.

Good presentation. Would be great if every publication had the nuts and bolts as this book does. In my mind the process is as interesting as the end product. Has both versions of Killing Joke. Both have their strengths. I prefer Higgins original 'gaudy' colours as they've been called. Recommended.

What can I say - a classic piece of graphic storytelling given a wonderful Absolute edition. A must have for fans of this particular set of creators. Lots of great process material included as supplemental materials, including Alan Moore’s complete script that describes each panel in the most granular of detail. Great value.

This is my first absolute edition and I was not disappointed. I loved Brian Bolland’s art and his design of the Joker. It’s great that in includes the original colours from the original release as well as the new colours by Brian himself. I’m so glad I have this in oversized format.

The Killing Joke has aged really well in my opinion. The absolute edition is not a necessary upgrade if you already have the deluxe edition, but it's worth it if you're a collector like myself. It's certainly the ultimate way to experience this classic. Alan Moore's script is shockingly detailed and elaborate. Brian Bolland's artwork shines in this oversized format and the new coloring is great.

An absolute classic made even better. The extras really give the story extra depth, and also provides an incite into the process of illustrating and storybooking a script. Also....that cover made even better.

Arrived with the corners a bit banged up but book in perfect condition as was protected by sleeve. Amazing joker origin story and even better in absolute edition.

Perfect packaging, arrived on time and honestly, great price! A great classic in a beautifully crafted edition!