Trinity #1
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Trinity #1

Writer: Francis Manapul Artist: Francis Manapul Publisher: DC Comics Release Date: September 21, 2016 Cover Price: $2.99 Critic Reviews: 47 User Reviews: 53
7.9Critic Rating
8.4User Rating

"BETTER TOGETHER" part 1! Together again for the first time! Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman. The core of the World's Greatest Heroes...but with a new Man of Steel, the bonds these three share will be tested and redefined by super-star writer/artist Francis Manapul. In this premiere issue, see the trio travel from Metropolis to Gotham City and beyond to learn what forces launched their heroic careers. But how will this journey of discovery lead them to a new threat?

  • 10
    ComiConverse - Kyle King Sep 24, 2016

    The first installment of the opening Better Together story arc is a chapter entitled Family Dinner. With the exception of Steve Wandss lettering, the entire issue was the handiwork of Francis Manapul. Was the writer/artists singular vision sufficient to bridge the gaps between superheroes from different universes? Read Full Review

  • 10
    Bounding Into Comics - Daniel Mills Sep 21, 2016

    With Trinity #1, Francis Manapul gives us an in-depth look into the emotions and kinship of DC's greatest heroes. Read Full Review

  • 10
    ComicBuzz - EJ G. Nov 2, 2016

    All in all this was a great issue and I'm excited to see what this brings to the Rebirth series. There wasn't much action but it didn't need to be, the pay off in future issues will be well worth it. Manapul delivers a strong performance as writer and artist and I hope he stays attached to the series for a while! I give it a 10/10, my first perfect score! Read Full Review

  • 9.7
    Major Spoilers - Jon Arvedon Sep 26, 2016

    Out of all the titles DC has released since May, no single issue has better epitomized the message of Rebirth than Trinity #1. Francis Manapul expertly ties up remaining loose ends and ties in elements from DC's past and present. Despite ending with a cliffhanger, this 20-page story still manages to feel complete and is by far the best individual comic I have read in all of 2016. Read Full Review

  • 9.6
    Weekly Comic Book Review - Loukas Sep 28, 2016

    It appears to be the week for the Superman Universe to explore the joys of domesticity. InSuperman #7,Peter Tomasi takes his readers on a trip to the Hamilton County Fair in the company of Clark, Lois, and Jon (now all using the unfortunate last name “Smith”). InTrinity #1, the first of a new series designed to replaceBatman/Superman andSuperman/Wonder Woman, the family bliss is of a different kind and scope, but in some ways runs even more deeply. Writer and artist Francis Manapul pulls off atour de forcenot just of technical skill but of characterization as he presents an evening at home with the Smiths and their guests, Bruce Wayne and Diana Prince. Read Full Review

  • 9.4
    Comicsverse - Chris Galvin Sep 22, 2016

    This issue is a slow burner, and it needed to be. It's trying to re-establish a bond between three heroes that know each other, yet are perfect strangers. The cliffhanger didn't 100% grab me, but it didn't matter. I am sold on the journey these characters are embarking on; to become friends, heroes, and the Trinity once more. Read Full Review

  • 9.1
    Heroes Direct - Eammon Jacobs Sep 27, 2016

    Trinity #1 doesn't take itself too seriously in places, but also approaches the entire situation quite sensibly. It's also worth noting that if you're looking for an action filled adventure – this issue might not be for you. It's a conversational delve into how these three intimidating heroes can get along as friends and allies. The writers even addressed the love story that occasionally sparks between Supes and Wonder Woman. It's done in a delicate way that cements a friendship between Lois and Diana. This is a huge step in the right direction. As a character analysis, this issue works perfectly. If you're looking to get to know three of the biggest characters in pop culture history, this is a great place to start. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Comicosity - Allen Thomas Sep 21, 2016

    I didnt know to expect, and I came into Trinity with my own ideas about what needed to emerge. At the end, I find myself both satisfied and excited about the stories we are going to get in the future. I like this Bruce, Diana, and Clark, and I hope that their friendship not only sets a tone for this series but for the entire DC line as we move deeper into a different kind of universe. These touching and slice-of-life moments are part of what I look for and what I feel helps the Trinity shine, and I hope that we see more of them and the main characters connections as the series grows into its own. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    AIPT - Matthew J. Theriault Sep 21, 2016

    Trinity is a triumph. It makes the same "mistakes" as other Rebirth books " an overreliance on convoluted continuity, handing over writing duties to creators who work better as artists, etc " and succeeds, surprisingly, by doing exactly the same. Rarely if ever have continuity call-backs been used so effectively to build out characters, not merely by reaffirming the development that took place in the past, but rather by making salient comparisons to the present plot. Whereas the Superman titles seem to have a '90s fixation since Rebirth began, Manapul pulls references from every era " the Silver Age, the Dark Age, and even the current Postmodern Age " to deliver a distinctive take of the Trinity that's truly his own. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    The GCRN - Daniel Clark Oct 7, 2016

    Part of me wonders if I have enjoyed Rebirth so much because it is directed towards people of my age. Not only do these characters resemble ones I once knew they are dealing with the type of challenges I face at my age. Of course I know nothing about fighting crime, but I do know the challenges of raising a child so reading Bruce Wayne and Clark bond over being fathersputs a smile on my face ear to ear. So far that has been a major side effect while reading much of Rebirth these first few months. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Flickering Myth - Ricky Church Sep 23, 2016

    Trinity #1 is already one of DC Rebirth's best titles due to how focused it is on the big three. Its refreshing to see since titles like Action Comics or Justice League that feature them have been huge spectacles lately. Manapul takes the time to delve into each character and build their relationship while introducing a slow burn to whatever the conflict in this first arc may be. While some consider it risky for a person to take on both major duties of a comic, his writing and art work together to a great degree and he knows exactly what to emphasize in both areas. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Dark Knight News - John Hagmann Sep 21, 2016

    Perhaps our heroes will come to learn despitetheir distinctions, they share the same substance. Read Full Review

  • 8.9
    SciFiPulse - Ian Cullen Sep 24, 2016

    It will be interesting to see where this goes in the other issues, which are to come. But for me it is the art work that kept my attention throughout this. Nothing wrong with the writing as such. I just wanted something to happen. Read Full Review

  • 8.8
    Multiversity Comics - Brian Salvatore Sep 26, 2016

    A stunning debut. Read Full Review

  • 8.8
    Geeked Out Nation - Jess Camacho Sep 21, 2016

    “Trinity” #1 is a beautiful book with a compelling story and unique approach. This could easily become the must read book featuring these characters if Manapul can keep examining this dynamic this well. Read Full Review

  • 8.6
    Nerds On The Rocks - Earl Rufus Sep 21, 2016

    A light on action issue, but some fun character moments and beautiful art carries it. Read Full Review

  • 8.5
    We The Nerdy - Alexander Handziuk Sep 23, 2016

    Above all, Trinity #1 manages to capture a sense of intimacy, as it begins to peel back the layers of DC's founding heroes in a loving and beautifully drawn way. Read Full Review

  • 8.5
    Pastrami Nation - Nolan Smith Sep 25, 2016

    This is a fantastic first issue: I do wonder what is next for this title, as the cliffhanger at the end left me a bit puzzled. Manapul creates something special here, despite their being no punches thrown or blood shed. Read Full Review

  • 8.4
    The Fandom Post - Chris Beveridge Sep 22, 2016

    I wasn't sure what to expect going into Trinity but I knew I wanted to reconnect with these characters while not getting mixed up in all their ongoing standalone books or the Justice League series. With it being a strong vision as coming through from Francis Manapul, you have to feel that everything has meaning with what's done and that carries through it in a really good way. Each of the characters gets some very good time here and the dynamic between them is well explored, leading you to that last page where you want to know more of the teaser for what's to come. But that isn't what's getting me to read the book but rather seeing how these three will work with each other and, hopefully, get back to something a little more classic and inspirational. I have a lot of hopes based on what Manapul has done here, though also a big of wariness over how far he can go in helping this course correction continue. Read Full Review

  • 8.3
    IGN - Jesse Schedeen Sep 22, 2016

    This issue serves as an instant reminder that Manapul is one of the most talented creators in DC's lineup. Read Full Review

  • 8.3
    Black Nerd Problems - Omar Holmon Sep 21, 2016

    Look at that majestic ass spread, yo! Look at the detail, man! That's one of the opening shots that will keep you hooked for this book. Manapul got the skill to not only create great dialogue but also bring it to life with visualizations. We have a writer who's an artist, and winning on both sides handling three of the biggest names in the DC Universe. This issue is a good insight into these friendships that we don't get to see too often enough Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Comics: The Gathering - Ryan.L Sep 21, 2016

    I highly recommend picking up this book. It was so much fun seeing these heroes interact on a different level than just fighting bad guys and saving the day. This is shaping up to be a stellar series so don’t miss out on it! Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Comic Vine - Tony 'G-Man' Guerrero Sep 21, 2016

    Francis Manapul has a big task in front of him. Besides handling the writing and art duties, he has to drive a book featuring Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman. This first issue shows how this isn't simply another Justice League book. There is some heart as well as we see Bruce and Diana get to know a Superman they're not familiar with. Manapul's art and color is as fantastic as you would expect. With a strange cliffhanger, you'll definitely want to come back for the next issue. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    The Batman Universe - Bill Heuer Sep 23, 2016

    Overall, I am really looking forward to Manapul showing these three become even closer in future issues. With a lot of series seeming to have a lot of action, this series will be a refreshing break with more character development and arcs. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Weird Science - Jim Werner Sep 21, 2016

    Francis Manapul starts off his series, not with a bang, but by catching up the reader before moving forward.  He does a good job of getting these familiar strangers together and I am intrigued to see where it is all heading.  His art is simply incredible and I could spend a long time just staring at the pages he gives us here.  All in all, this was a good start to a series I now have high hopes for. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Pop Culture Uncovered - soshillinois Sep 21, 2016

    Normally it would sound boring to read a book about the Trinity and Lois having dinner, yet its actually quite a bit of fun. It also allows Manapul to have a more contemplative atmosphere filter in, as is his wont. While Manapul doesnt tend to appear in a lot of books, its always worth it to see what he has to offer both in terms of graphic design, and in overall aesthetic of a book. Trinity is not going to be a book for the continuity die-hards, but if youre looking for fantastic storytelling, and something different from the usual pyrotechnics, youre in for a treat. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    GWW - Enrique Rea Sep 26, 2016

    Trinity is just the type of slow jam Rebirth needed to rebuild the relationships between DC greatest heroes. We expected great art from Manapul but he also gives an earnest and endearing character-driven story that cements the future of Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman as a team. It's unclear where the book goes from here but with Manapul at the helm I'm willing to find out. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Graphic Policy - Brett Sep 21, 2016

    As a single issue, this is a great comic, but it leaves me a bit perplexed as how it'll work as a series. We don't get much of an answer here as far as that goes. If you just want a good comic to read, go for it. If you're looking for a first issue that kicks off the adventures of these three, you may be disappointed. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Newsarama - Matthew Sibley Sep 26, 2016

    While the book is light on plot progression, there's something to be said for how the wonderfully illustrated pages grab your attention and hold it until the end. In that way it's a lot like Manapul's The Flash run from a few years ago. It remains to be seen whether his plotting has become more intricate, but it's clear from this issue alone that his visual storytelling has only gotten better. With that in mind, this series looks like it will be a joy to read and should the narrative remain simple moving forward, this is sure to be a book that's enhanced by the art. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Batman-News - Brian Warshaw Sep 21, 2016

    The artwork here is as good as anything Manapul has done previously, and is worth the cost of purchase on its own. But the real achievement comes in the form of an intimate family dinner and a strong premise well-explored.Trinity is not a perfect start, but it's a really good one. I love Manapul's decision to favor character over spectacle, and I am hopeful that the series will remain moored in these interpersonal relationships even asthe action heats up in future installments. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Comic Crusaders - Inhuman Mongo Sep 27, 2016

    Overall, I think Mr. Manapul has far exceeded what we have been given in the Rebirth of Justice League and favored character development over pure spectacle. I am more than a little excited to see where this title takes us. The Trinity theme was all over in this book between the homage to older issues and Rebirth issues so this is a solid and defendable opener and is my Justice League book until the main JL book improves. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    DC Comics News - Konrad Sep 21, 2016

    This issue is a perfect way to start a series which will explore the human relationships between DC and frankly, comic book's greatest characters! Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Nerdist - Eric Diaz Sep 21, 2016

    Although there is no “A-plot” to speak of in the issue (it's really just about these characters spending time together), the issue ends with an interesting cliffhanger, one that might have bigger implications for the whole Rebirth event. If you're a fan of these characters (and what DC Comics fan isn't?), you owe it to yourself to pick up Trinity #1. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Doom Rocket - Molly Jane Kremer Sep 21, 2016

    Like the Rebirth initiative itself, the book touches on multiple past DC continuities: visual references (all double-page spreads, again) come one after the other, first to the ol' Rainbow Batman suit from the Silver Age, preceding a recreated shot of Superman from Geoff Johns and Jim Lee's first New 52 Justice League arc, followed by a scene from the extremely recent Wonder Woman storyline "The Lies" by Greg Rucka and Liam Sharp. I very much hope that this reverence to all eras means Trinity will be building upon classic continuity, the curated best parts of the New 52, and the wide expanse of quality continuity being offered in the current DC Universe to truly delve into the unique relationship shared by DC's preeminent superheroes. A beautiful comic, and well worth a read. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Kabooooom - Matt Morrison Sep 23, 2016

    Unsurprisingly, Manapul's artwork is equally elegant. The whole of Trinity #1 makes a case for more American comics spurning the assembly-line method of creation in favor of a single writer/artist overseeing most aspects of a book's creation. The only real flaw is that despite the wonderful character moments there is little weight to the story. Still, there is more than enough here to justify optimism for the future of this series and a cliffhanger that promises more action to come. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Newsarama - Pierce Lydon Sep 21, 2016

    All stories have to start somewhere and after DC mucked up some of their characters in the "New 52," they’ve remained steadfastly dedicated to getting back to basics during "Rebirth." Trinity represents a doubling down on the hope and optimism that has been exhibited elsewhere in the line and Manapul proves that he’s the guy to bring these three characters to the top of the heap together. Artistically, the script is executed just about perfectly and while there are a couple of issues with dialogue and characterization, they aren’t big enough to derail the issue at all. It’ll be interesting to see what kind of threats these three will face considerings they have to be bigger than in their solo titles but smaller than a full-scale Justice League adventure. But if Manapul can mix in meaningful character work along the way, Trinity could be one of the books that makes DC Comics great again. Read Full Review

  • 7.5
    Lyles Movie Files - Jeffrey Lyles Sep 21, 2016

    Trinity gets off to a strong start. Hopefully subsequent issues will pack more story along with the evolving character dynamics and gorgeous art. Read Full Review

  • 7.0
    Chuck's Comic Of The Day - Chuck Sep 23, 2016

    There's a lot of nice art on display here - Francis Manapul is one of the most creative artists working in the business today, and if you like double-page spreads of each hero in a poster-style pose, you'll get that here. But the story, also by Manapul, is mighty thin. And I have no idea what's going on in that final page. Read Full Review

  • 7.0
    Big Comic Page - Chris Downs Sep 25, 2016

    Of the Rebirth issues I've read so far this is by far the most promising and, between us, I think it just might have brought me back into the fold. Read Full Review

  • 7.0
    CourtOfNerds - Kevin Carley Sep 21, 2016

    In the end, I guess we did "need" this #1 to start us off on what ever adventures the "Trinity" will uncover. I feel that it could have been done in 4 pages, though, and not 17. We would have at least have got to see what was hiding in Clark's barn. This book is trading on my faith that the series will be great at some point, not on what it has given me thus far. Read Full Review

  • 6.0
    Outright Geekery - Leroy Dee Sep 24, 2016

    VerdictI feel maybe I set my expectations just a tad too high. Last time I saw these three team up"they fought a Lex Luthor powered Doomsday with an awesome guitar riff playing in the background. Am I the one at fault here? All of their solo issues are currently cranking out their best stories of these characters in years, so I would imagine their first Post-Rebirth title to deliver similar results but times 3. It may sound like I'm being too hard on this issue. Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad story, but if you're buying this thinking it's some must read story that will be a future collector's item, I would skip this one. Read Full Review

  • 6.0
    The Source by SuperHeroStuff - Marc Buxton Sep 26, 2016

    There's not much story space covered in this premiere issue with most of the action taking place during dinner on the Kent farm (Wonder Woman brought a freshly killed boar), but its clear that Manapul has the voices and visual language of DCs three core characters down. Lets hope he finds a story big enough for the three legends. Read Full Review

  • 6.0
    Comic Bastards - Jordan Claes Sep 22, 2016

    Even as I write this review, I'm still asking myself how I felt about Trinity as a whole. It was slow paced, but there was definite substance and character depth well beyond the scope of what you normally see in superhero comics. On the other hand, it IS a superhero comic! Would it have hurt to see the Justice League's most famous members do something, anything that was even kind of cool in their first issue?! I think we all would have been O.K. with that; I definitely would have been. I'll keep reading on not because of what Trinity is but rather because of what I think/hope it will become; I just hope I'm right. Read Full Review

  • 5.5
    Capeless Crusader - Jeremy Radick Sep 21, 2016

    Trinity #1 is too subdued a start to make you excited about where the book is going. It's long on character, but really short on narrative and incident, so that contemplative tone feels a little low energy for a debut. There's a tremendous amount of warmth, feeling and sincerity to the book that I appreciated. But I have to question the wisdom of opening this issue with what essentially boils down to a dinner party. Read Full Review

  • 4.0
    Razorfine - Alan Rapp Sep 26, 2016

    While I'm guessing not all the issues will be dinner's at the Kent farmhouse, this issue works well and sets up the series to explore the relationships between DC's big three. Worth a look. Read Full Review

  • 4.0
    The Beat - Kyle Pinion Sep 21, 2016

    There's promise of course, that's inherent in the concept itself and that alone is an improvement on the previous Batman/Superman and Superman/Wonder Woman comics, but I wouldn't recommend this beyond the lovely art. Read Full Review

  • 3.5
    Fortress of Solitude - Rick Austin Sep 26, 2016

    And that's what this is. The plot is bland and boring, and because of that the artwork feels like it's wasting space. The characters may be the three big guns of DC, but Trinity #1 is firing blanks. Read Full Review

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