The Flash #21 Review - Finding Its Way
While the characters have thrived in DC's Rebirth campaign, there are forces who are intent on [...]
While the characters have thrived in DC's Rebirth campaign, there are forces who are intent on keeping the DC Universe under their thumb. They've done it so far in the shadows, and the journey to discover who these forces are is the central theme of "The Button", part 2 of which is in this week's Flash #21.
Spoilers incoming for Flash #21, so if you haven't read it yet you've been warned.
In many ways, this book features the best and worst of DC in one single issue. The dynamic between Barry Allen and Bruce Wayne has been expanded to not just focus on their superhero guises, but the personalities of the people behind them. Their backgrounds in forensics make for a camaraderie that has been missing in much of their time in Justice League, and will hopefully appear more in the future.
Adding to the positivity is the issue's ending, which brings back a fan favorite for a reunion that many have wanted for some time, and promises big story points for next issue. The bad? The way they get there is one of the hardest things to take seriously in DC lore, and that's the speed force Nordic Track "cosmic treadmill". The device is loved and loathed, with very few opinions in between, and immediately takes you out most storyline's it's featured in. The thing is, seeing Bruce and Barry on this buddy cop adventure takes some of the sting out, but not going to lie about the small celebration that took place upon it possibly being destroyed. It always looks ridiculous and brings a level of camp to things that a story like this could really do without.
As for the central mystery, it doesn't really move forward much in this issue either, but it's still a worthwhile addition to the series, and places enough breadcrumbs that will hopefully deliver dividends in issues #3 and #4. Cosmic treadmills and universe hopping aside, the issue is worth it just for more Barry and Bruce, and the promise of bigger things to come.
Rating: 3 out of 5.
Flash #21 is written by Joshua Williamson with art by Howard Porter. The official description can be found below.
"THE BUTTON" part two! 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!
Flash #21 is in stores April 26.
MORE COMICS: BoroughCon Brings New Convention To Queens, New York / What We Want To See In Marvel Legacy / Major Part Of Superman's Origin Retooled To Match Donner Movies