The Good
One of the great things about this book is it completely feels like Barry Allen's book. That may sound odd but even though he appears in JUSTICE LEAGUE, you know this is where the character is defined. Batman runs into the problem of having too many books trying to define his character and events.
Little details like the Flash helping repair the city after Gorilla Grodd's gorilla army attack is great. We're seeing some carry over and just because the last arc is over doesn't mean we can just forget what happened. There are repercussions from the past stories such as the damaged caused, Barry's relationship status and even his employment status.
With some characters having been trapped in the Speed Force for months, now we're seeing what's going on with them. This adds another layer to the series and potential problems for Flash to deal with.
With a story just written by Brian Buccellato (Francis Manapul is taking a two-issue break), the series doesn't miss a beat. Seeing parts of Barry Allen's civilian life is great. His current status is a bit of a mess and it's fun to see how it's playing out and the fact that Barry will try to use his situation to his advantage when possible.
Marcio Takara does a superb job filling in for Manapul. It can be hard to accept another artist when you become so used to a certain one. Buccellato's colors help make it easier as well.
The Bad
It's hard to form a firm opinion on the new members of the new team, The Speed Force. It's safe to assume there's more to their story to come and their inexperience makes it fun to see. How they'll fit in remains to be seen. There are some elements of comedy relief as we see these new heroes trying to be actual heroes but they almost feel like they could get in the way of the overall story.
Trickster also has found a new group to align himself with. This felt a little out of nowhere since the last time we saw him was when his arm got ripped off by Gorilla Grodd.
The Verdict
THE FLASH is a great and fun title in the New 52. Brian Buccellato continues to develop the character and it's great seeing the twists developments from the last arc are adding to his life. We get to see Barry as the Flash and in his civilian guise. Marcio Takara fills in on the art and it's good. It's very good. Seeing his art is just a reminder we need him on a monthly book again. Despite his connection to the Justice League, it's great seeing this title manage to stand separate and guide its own way in the DC Universe.
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