Batman #22 "The Button" Review — You Don't Read Comics

May 4

May 4 Batman #22 "The Button" Review

This issue was incredibly emotional. I wasn't ready for it and it punched me right in the feels...

So if you've been paying attention to this event you will realise that last issue Batman and the Flash somehow ended up in the Flashpoint universe. This issue takes place exclusively in that universe however it seems like this is the last we will see of it. Which is a damn shame because I'm sure I'm not the only one who absolutely loves the whole concept of Flashpoint Batman!

The dialogue between Bruce and his father is where all the heart is within the issue. It's so wonderful that you are able to briefly detach yourself from the fact that this is two men dressed as Bats from different universes. Honestly, it is incredibly well written! Joshua Williamson (who scripted this) should pat himself on the back. It very much earns the moment. Bat fans have always wondered what would happen if Bruce and his father (or mother) ever met again, what would he think of Batman's crusade? This answers that question. Surprisingly, Thomas Wayne does most of the talking too. Which is fascinating. As readers, we never really consider that perhaps Thomas would have more to say to Bruce than vice versa! This is Thomas being given hope when he is at his lowest, which is pretty low considering how hopeless he was in Flashpoint! He was ready to give up, everything seemed pointless... Then his son shows up! Back from the dead!

The issue isn't even exclusively a conversation (which I would have been very content with). There's action too! This universe still has a war raging! Which served as a reminder to how bleak and fascinating this alternate timeline is. It made me want to break out my copy of Flashpoint again. The action is pretty neat and the Flash is even given something to do! We don't always get to see two Batmen fighting side by side so savour this while you can. I really hope this isn't the last time we see Flashpoint Batdad!

The issue ends on a very interesting twist. The story has almost come full circle but we still aren't much closer to any answers. So the next (and final) issue in this arc has a lot of explaining to do.

This event has been great so far, so I really hope it doesn't fall flat in the final stretch. We still don't know how the actual button fits into all of this or why whoever is doing this (definitely Doctor Manhattan) is doing this.