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"THE BUTTON" part one! The cataclysmic events of DC UNIVERSE: REBIRTH #1 continue here! The Dark Knight and The Fastest Man Alive, the two greatest detectives on any world, unite to explore the mystery behind a certain blood-stained smiley button embedded in the Batcave wall. What starts as a simple investigation turns deadly when the secrets of the button prove irresistible to an unwelcome third party-and it's not who anyone suspects! It's a mystery woven through time, and the ticking clock starts here!
Retailers: This issue will ship with four covers. Please note that this issue's lenticular cover edition is available only in the US and more
Batman #21 did a good job of setting a tone for the rest of the mini-series. Its script and art made the story come to life, and it really showed of the brutality and anger that came of Reverse Flash. Although no Watchmen characters were physically scene, their presence in the DC Universe has never been stronger and that is perhaps the most important part of this issue! Read Full Review
Believe the hype and be thankful for the wait folks, this was totally worth it and is very exciting. I haven't had this much fun reading 'Batman' in years! I for one can't wait for next week's second chapter in Flash #21. Bravo DC: Rebirth, what a way to live up to your word. Read Full Review
Batman #21 is definitely a must read in my opinion, especially if you're interested in seeing how Rebirth truly will play out. This book gave us action and raw emotion on from both Batman and Reverse-Flash. There's a moment where Eobard takes something personal from Bruce and it makes himsnap. This Flashpoint reference was very pivotal and even I forgot about the letter Thomas Wayne wrote to Bruce. I was excited to see that Tom King brought that up. With the Flash finally appearing at the end, I guess we'll finally see Batman and the Flash working side by side! Read Full Review
Kudos to Tom King and Jason Fabok. This issue couldn't have gotten more retro or more exciting if they had decided to intersperse the panels with images from a pirate comic. Read Full Review
Batman #21 is the perfect set-up for two of DC Comics’ best detectives (Batman and the Flash) unraveling DC Rebirth’s mystery. The best aspect of this issue is figuring out how the clues piece together and how they connect to the overall mystery of DC Rebirth and Watchmen. This gives reason for you not only to pick up the issue, but to analyze the story further through multiple readings. Read Full Review
After Fabok's most recent Justice League run, he's probably my favorite artist working in comics today. Throw in a bit more questions and complexities into the DC Universe by writer Tom King, and this issue pretty much hits all my sweet spots. I don't want to go into too much detail about the story as I'd hate to spoil any of its great moments, but I enjoyed the story almost as much as the art and like I mentioned above, while we don't get all the answers, this is only the first part of a much larger story waiting to be told. This storyline will continue on in next week's Flash number twenty-six and I'm sure throughout the rest of this year. Do yourself a favor and buy this issue. There's really a whole lot to like! Read Full Review
With all that said this is one of the most exciting stories to in the DC line up right now and I cant wait to see how the next issue of The Flash continues the events started here. This issue alone is action packed and drops a few breadcrumbs, hinting at something much larger on the horizon. We are already witnessed first-hand the machinations of the mysterious Mr Oz and I can't help but speculate about at his involvement in these events. Needless to say, I am on board for the duration and eagerly await the second part of this tale to unfold. Read Full Review
This issue has been one of the Rebirth era's most anticipated releases since it was announced and it fully lived up to the hype. Don't leave out the comic book store without grabbing this one. Read Full Review
Overall, I have been very impressed with how Rebirth has been playing out. It seems that DC really thought about what they were trying to do, quite the opposite of how the New 52 came off. I have faith in the company again, which I was losing a few years back. Read Full Review
This is as good an issue of Batman as weve seen in a while: Jason Fabok crams hyperkinetic energy and anxiety in nearly every panel. Brad Anderson renders the scenes beatifically. Tom King uses every trick he can to make a short narrative seem like an agonizingly long time. And theres still more story to go! Read Full Review
This book is an homage to the history that has come before, yet willing to strike out into an exciting new direction. I don't know what any other company has in store for this summer, but right now it looks like DC will be running the show. Kudos to the creative team for an excellent read! Read Full Review
What a way to kick-off a crossover! Especially, one deeply relevant to the DCU. This comic can't be recommended enough. Another pro of this book is that its relatively self-contained; one would really only need to have read or be familiar with the plot of DC Universe: Rebirth. Dont miss as the doomsday clock continues to tick with consummate creatives leading the way to a bright rebirth for DC. Read Full Review
Batman #21 is a perfect example of how to set up a major comic book event. The story is gripping, the art is amazing, and this issue will leave you dying to read the next chapter. Read Full Review
Tom King and Jason Fabok pump up this first part of "The Button" crossover with emotion, mystery, and savage conflict. Read Full Review
The button is a mystery that needs to be solved before someone else gets hurt it would seem. Batman surprisingly flounders under Reverse Flash's assault for most of the issue, and Flash was dealing with another problem at the time. There's a good amount of action here, and the art is spectacular, conveying emotions and actions well. The tone is both one of mystery and grimness. Batman was trounced by Eobard Thawne, but the big problem still lies with the button. Where did it send Thawne, where it come from, and what sent it here? This issue served as a great set up to this mystery story, and it certainly started with a bang. We'll have to see how this works out in Flash # 21! Read Full Review
Is it next week yet? The Flash is going to add to this Batman story that we can't wait to see what happens in the next month. Read Full Review
Overall, this was a near perfect issue to kickstart this arc. Read Full Review
I don't get to the end of Batman #21 frustrated or feeling incomplete. The moments King and Fabok lay out have crystallized and slowed in my mind to such a degree that the fight itself feels fulfilling. This is but one chapter in a much larger story much larger than this crossover will likely hold. But in this moment, I've gotten this epic fight that could only end one way, and a lionshare of things to think about until next week. What could be more fun than that? Read Full Review
Overall, Tom King is continuing to master this character, and at this point, has shown to be the writer that Batman deserves to continue the great storytelling of Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo. Don't miss this issue if you are a Batman fan! Tom King has also managed to make this a good jumping-on point for new readers that have not read the Rebirth Batman before, and that is never a small feat! Read Full Review
This book is damn well worth your money. Buy the book. Buy the variant. Buy one of those stupid lenticular covers (I know I will!). If you're interested in DC Rebirth at all, this book is DEFINITELY worth your time. It is the first real continuation that we've seen since DC Universe Rebirth #1. Read Full Review
The Button has kicked off in grand fashion with a quick, emotional opening punch of an issue. As we look forward, Im hoping to get some more light on what exactly Rebirth is all about. I dont need all the answers, but one or two would be appreciated. The worst thing I think DC could do right now is leave us even more confused after the end of this crossover. I dont see them doing that, however. Fan service has been a big part of the Rebirth initiative and theyve built up a lot of good will in my book. This opening chapter continues that trend. Ill see you next week with second part of this story in The Flash #21. Read Full Review
Batman #21 strives to start a world shattering storyline that delivers in every aspect, and succeeds. Read Full Review
If you were looking for answers to DC Rebirth you will be greatly disappointed in Batman 21. King does little to explain while adding more hints to further muddling the DC Universe. The use of a timer not only signifies they are running out of time but adds tension as Batman faces off against the Reverse-Flash. Fabok uses a 9-page panel to snapshot every moment culminating in the surprising ending. Read Full Review
Everybody that has been reading the Rebirth series should pick up this issue even if you aren't reading Batman just to see this big event unfold. Read Full Review
In conclusion, although I had some minor problems with this book, it was overall really good and I highly recommend it. I have really been enjoying Williamson’s Flash run, so I do hope he can keep up with what he has been doing and the great issue that King just did. If you were not planning to read this before, I suggest you change that decision. Read Full Review
Batman #21 gets "The Button" off to a tremendous start, as despite there being minimal development to the main narrative, it gives us a spectacular encounter between the Caped Crusader and the Reverse Flash. It also ends in surprising fashion, leaving us guessing what will happen next and how the button fits into things. Read Full Review
It's great to see them finally getting around to taking the next step in the Rebirth story - it's been simmering far too long, but it seems to be coming to a boil at last! Read Full Review
The first issue of the Flash/Batman crossover is near perfect on both the writing and artistic fronts. There are some minor quibbles that may detract some readers' enjoyment, but it is a fantastic introduction to "The Button" storyline. Read Full Review
Batman #21 is an excellent start to "The Button" crossover with The Flash series. Tom King delivered a lot of information without ever losing your attention as a reader. Adding in a dream fight between Batman and Reverse Flash, which had the backdrop of the story behind the Watchmen Button, added to the weight this story carries for the entire DCU. Having Jason Fabok draw everything that took place during the course of Batman #21. Read Full Review
Batman #21 starts “The Button” event strong. The issue can be a little bit slow by setting the tone of the story, but writes Tom King and Artist Jason Fabok work perfectly together to deliver us an interesting story. There are only four issues in this awesome story, and I'm glad it is off to a great start so far. Read Full Review
In short, issue #21 gave readers an opportunity to step back into the Rebirth event that may have slipped their minds, but in a BIG way. Read Full Review
The Button is here and those looking for quick answers will be disappointed, but if you relax, enjoy the great art and remember this is just the start, you should enjoy yourself. I had a few nitpicks, but still really enjoyed myself and can't wait to see where we go from here. Read Full Review
Slow moving and not necessarily the kickoff we've come to expect from crossover event comics, but it's an excellent read for those who love comics filled with hints and clues. Read Full Review
The secret of DC'sRebirth project is that there is no secret at all. Commercially, the project aims at discerning the most popular versions of the company's proprietary characters and presenting those versions to readers. Whether it is a true renewal or a giant exercise in retail pandering, or whether there is any real difference between those things, is a judgment that can be safely left to comic book fans. After all, those fans are famously, and notoriously, erudite and combative. Read Full Review
Batman #21 is a very slow-paced, methodical start to this crossover, which is a little frustrating considering that writers Tom king and Joshua Williamson only have four issues with which to work. Still, this is a gorgeous start to "The Button," and one that perfectly establishes the mood, even if it doesn't seem overly concerned with plot. Read Full Review
Centering mostly on Batman‘s fight with the world's most evil speedster, Batman #21 opens the door to the mystery of the reconstructed DCU but doesn't shine much light in. What we do know, based on the Reverse-Flash's curiosity, is curiosity can be very deadly indeed. Worth a look. Read Full Review
The last few years have been a pretty great year for off-brand Batman in the DC line and even within the confines of the DC event cycle, this book continues to be exciting. While it's not a perfect fit, The Button definitely is worth checking out. Read Full Review
Upon initially reading it I was super psyched- but upon rereading it I realised that there isn't enough in this for all of the hype it received. Perhaps the hype was the problem? If this issue came out like any other issue, I would have been blown away but this has been a long time coming now, so it didn't fully satisfy me. Either way, I'm still incredibly excited for what comes next! Read Full Review
Batman #21 is one of the coolest DC comics in recent memory. An excellent usage of structure and color combine to create an incredibly compelling action story that leaves you wanting more. And more (or should I say Moore?) is coming. Let's hope it's as good is this. Read Full Review
Batman #21 is a good opening introduction to 'The Button' which raises some intriguing questions surrounding Flashpoint and DC Universe Rebirth. The fight between Batman and Reverse-Flash was well done with Fabok having a keen eye on how to depict it in a single minute. Based on this, next week's The Flash #21 should be a very exciting follow up to this issue and the biggest mystery Batman and Flash have ever faced. Read Full Review
Without question, Batman #21 is mysterious, tantalizing, and all around well written. Read Full Review
After waiting so long, it's somewhat disappointing to be given so little. We don't really learn anything we didn't already know and no real progression occurs. While what we are given is good, we're just given so very little of it. Ultimately, this comic is little more than a teaser for the bigger story at hand…albeit one hell of a fine teaser. Read Full Review
Those seeking answers should probably trade-wait this run, or at the very least wait for next week's Flash, which mightbe more illuminating. Batman #21: The Button is a great tease for a story with potentially enormous repercussions for the DC Universe, but it's mostly just more teasing. Let's get to that story. Read Full Review
Pick this issue up. It's not just an important bit of world building, it's GOOD. It doesn't feel disposable like other crossovers sometimes do. It's thrilling and fun. Read Full Review
Despite having bone breaking art from Jason Fabok and Brad Anderson,Batman#21 is more of a prologue than a part one. However, on a pure craft level, it is a wonderful demonstration of how comics can speed up or slow down time with a single minute stretched over many pages just like how Dr. Manhattan sees the world. Hopefully, King and company will continue to put their own variations on these old themes and not be content to play dive bar covers of classics past. Read Full Review
It would be easy to say that this is amazing, but that would be lying. There are probably plenty of people out there who'll say that Batman #21 is a brilliant issue and, on the surface, it does seem like it's delivering. However, the lack of depth to the plot and the weak dialogue drag it down almost from the beginning. Read Full Review
Batman #21 is hampered by the fact that there are certain perfect and indelible works of art that should never be touched or embellished upon. And though writer Tom King and artist Jason Fabok have crafted a fairly entertaining, well-structured and finely executed opener, the simple truth remains; this is a bad idea. It's just nearly impossible to imagine lightning striking twice in such a powerful way as it did when "Watchmen" came to be regarded as one of the seminal works of an entire medium. And therefore, despite the skill and craftsmanship on display in a perfectly serviceable issue, it's hard to dissuade yourself from the feeling that this will likely disappoint. Read Full Review
A decent introduction marred by its own very controversial premise. Read Full Review
It wouldn't be a proper DC event without a snazzy lenticular cover, now would it? And since the technology is there to properly dazzle our eyeballs " we're miles way from the migraine-inducing Villains Month covers three years back " why the heck wouldn't you want to shell out an extra buck for the visual splendor? And the best bit about this cover? It didn't cause a spike in the price for the other versions of this issue, thus keeping DC's "Draw the line at $2.99" promise in check. Read Full Review
After all the hype, the first part of "The Button" doesn't really deliver what we expected. Read Full Review
Batman #21 is a finely written, exceptionally drawn comic, but it does next to nothing to move the story or the mystery forward, at least as far as I'm concerned. I may have missed something. Read Full Review
For years, people have wondered, "what if the Watchmen did exist in the DC Universe," and while the overarching narrative of "Rebirth" first appeared to be tackling that head on, since then it seems to have been trying to coast on the multitude of hypothesis that stem from it, instead of actually expanding upon it. So while Batman #21 may be visceral and intense, because of those connections to the wider narrative, it feels like an extension of this problem driving to its illogical conclusion. Read Full Review
I would give it a TEN based on the gorgeous artwork alone. Beautiful superhero comic book. And the story was fun, too.
This issue brought me back into the Rebirth hype train. Stellar work by King and Fabok.
This is what I've been waiting almost a year for. Since reading the Geoff Johns one-shot that set this whole thing into motion, this story is the only one I really cared about. Oz and Superman can take a backseat, this is the event you've been looking for.
Almost a full year after the Rebirth special we move a little closer in towards the source of this planned two year arc. Unafraid of the spotlight shine, Tom King writes his ass off and Fabok turns in some of his best work (an impressive feat for an artist of his caliber). Things didn't shake down like I expected and the issue is all the better for the twists and turns it presents.
I wasn't the biggest fan of the idea of integration of the Watchmen stories into the DCU, but if quality like this is result - bring it on!
Clean
Breathtaking art and gripping script. Highly recommend.
Now that's how you do comics.
In this issue,King shows how much he has control over the flow and the pacing. Using the famous 9-panel grid, one of Watchen's narrative branda, Tom tells a story that is perfectly crafted and executed into the time barrier imposed by the story. I'm really trying not to enter the spoiler's zone, but it's almost impossible. So... Go read it. Probably one of the best issues of King's Batman, if not the best one.
Hard to make a review without spoilers...the art was good!
Doom Rocket review is a piece of shit, complaining for The lenticular covers?...really?
This was an awesome issue. The fight between Batman and Reverse Flash, with its second by millisecond countdown was totally fucking cool. Jason Fabok's art is killer here. Not a lot happens per se story-wise, but this provocative issue loads the bases for part two in "Flash" #21.
What a start to this long awaited "The Button" story arc! Not a whole lot of exposition here but we do get is some unbelievable action/fight sequences and a massive helping of intrigue! Oh and it's all set during a game of the greatest sport on the planet... hockey! This is one hell of a way to start this Batman/Flash crossover! Cannot wait to see where this goes!
This to me is the quintessential sequel to the DC Rebirth #1 issue, with it continuing a story that was setup within that oneshot. I am looking forward to seeing where this is headed, but I cannot imagine that they will introduce Dr. Manhattan this early. I loved the interaction between Reverse Flash and Batman, with this being my favorite Batman issue in recent memory.
Good story building on Rebirth, but the star of this issue is the art. Jason Fabok is just incredible. This guy can draw.
Other than being a slow start-up, it really packed a visual, emotional, and Universe-spanning punch! King has his own voice - sign of a modern comic wave.
I knew that Tom King would deliver. I know that a lot of readers haven't been hot on his run so far but I have thoroughly enjoyed it so far, very different than your standard Batman books. I love how his run connects itself to Rebirth as a whole in this issue. Fabok on art was a great call, as expected. Can't wait for Flash #21 next week, looks like it will be a great crossover.
This is probably the issue I was looking forward to the most since the DCU: Rebirth #1 one-shot, and it didn't let me down at all. Seriously, two of my favorite creators working on my two favorite super-heroes investigating on a mystery related to my favorite comic-book ever... What could go wrong?
Tom King's storytelling, notably the use of a timer and symmetries, works masterfully with Watchmen's 9 panel grids. He already used them in his past works a lot, but here, they are more meaningful than ever. The dialogues are great, the plot is fantastic and there's just the right amount of revelations and teasing for a first issue.
Jason Fabok's style also fits Watchmen's remarkably. His line work is very detailed, his scene s more
LET'S GO
This story, or rather this crossover was a long time coming and there were lots of expectations regarding this one to say the least. Ever since DC Rebirth started and its ties to 'Watchmen' or rather to 'Dr. Manhattan' were revealed fans all over the world were waiting for further insight into the matter. And 'The Button', after its announcement was surely added excitement with its promise of revealing more about this exciting new direction of DC characters.
And 'The Button' does deliver on a lot of levels. It builds with a strong start adding further mystery with a stylish intro, which foretells of a grim future. Then starts the journey with a moody and sluggishly slow method of storytelling; which focus entirely on the atmosphe more
I fell off of this Batman run after the first arc, but now seems to be the perfect opportunity to jump on board, at least for this crossover. Fabok's artwork is superb and the 9 panel grid set to the countdown is incredibly effective at alluding to Watchmen and frames well against the hockey game. I can't wait to see where this leads.
SCORE: 8.8
GREAT art. I haven't read Batman in a few months so jumping back in with this new storyline. I don't read Flash but I'm going to now to see where else this goes.
Good start cant wait for the next issue
The story is perfectly paced, Tom King' story-telling is resourceful, the nine-panel grid is obviously masterful, the teasings are interesting and Jason Fabok's art is epic and beautiful. And I know that the next issues will be even better!
So far King's Batman has underwhelmed. This issue is the first one to live up to the hype.
The plot is great, without a wasted moment. I won't ruin it.
This is the sharpest King's writing has been. His obnoxious speech patterns are gone, replaced by sharp wording that crackles. More important, he's willing to leave space empty when words aren't necessary. A nearly perfect job.
Fabok is the game changer artist. The book is filled with symbolism and callbacks. Shifting to a Watchmen grid format, to Dark Knight esque poses. The colorist deserves comment too. The color...well, I won't spoil that either. Just know that this is Allred level work.
This was a damn good issue. By no means does it start to answer questions, this is purely a set-up issue. But I have to say, this was an AWESOME and EXCITING set-up issue.
Tom King + 9 panel grid = great read
Batman vs Reverse Flash...and he gets his ass kicked
I thought this issue was good. I did not see the big deal of this crossover during this issue. I felt kind of lost during the read, maybe its because I am unfamiliar with DC's history or the watchmen. ( UPDATE: After reading part 2 in Flash #21 this story made much more sense to me )
I felt opposite to Comicosity - Matt Santori Apr 19, 2017 - and DID get to the end of Batman #21 frustrated or feeling incomplete. First of all, besides, the logic of the foot stab, the Batman stalemate with Reverse Flash was very unconvincing as presented. Also, this was all tease for Rebirth revamping with no proper footnoting or prepping readers for a cosmic level story which is extremely atypical/undemanded of happening in this book or 'Tec - except for that grabber cover..
it seems like this book tries really hard to be special... and somehow came up flat for me. there were a few things I really liked about it. the fight that showed how fast Reverse Flash was hitting Batman. the moment he destroyed the note from Thomas Wayne. and the death at the end. a book with three very memorable things like that should rate higher.. but... it all just fell flat to me. maybe I should read it again...
Not what I was expecting. The arrival of *spoiler* came out of nowhere and even though it was cool to see how the fight scenes were done with the minute countdown I couldn't help feel it was filler as there are a lot of panels with no dialogue. I was expecting an issue showcasing Barry and Bruce's detective skills. I am sure this will be cool in the end, but this issue kind of disappointed me.
Awesome art, good promise, never paid off well.
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