The production direction for the "Absolute Batman" animated series has been adjusted: the team recently decided to shift from the original 3D design to primarily 2D animation, while retaining 3D elements. The animation will also expand on the stories of Bruce Wayne and his friends.
This direction was announced during a panel at New York Comic Con. Peter Girardi, Executive Vice President of Warner Bros. Animation, discussed adjustments to the visual style; comic author Scott Snyder will serve as the showrunner for the animation and is developing the project alongside artist Nick Dragotta. The original work's depiction of Bruce lacking wealth and resources will also provide context for understanding the animated series.
Concept designs for Bruce Wayne, Batman, the Batmobile, and Alfred were showcased on-site, along with early test footage of Bruce battling Black Mask's henchmen. Comic book colorist Frank Martin is collaborating with Dragotta on character design. These materials are still in the early stages of visual development, so they cannot yet be used to judge the final product.
Dragotta believes the animation offers room to tell the comic's story more completely. Snyder cited examples such as Penguin, Riddler, Killer Croc, and Harvey Dent—Bruce's friends—who can receive descriptions that the comic's format could hardly accommodate. The team stated that the animation will remain faithful to the source material while expanding on characters and relationships, and they hope to preserve the comic's distinct visual style.