Heroes always manage to save the day but this series pulls you in and keeps you on the edge of your seat as you wonder if Flash will actually be able to succeed.
The Good
I can totally see the argument against rebooting/relaunching existing characters. With THE FLASH, we are seeing a younger, less experienced Barry Allen and he's still learning how to properly use his powers to their fullest. The writing/drawing/coloring team of Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato are making it work.
For three months now, THE FLASH has simply been a fun and exciting comic. That's what comic readers want. Did we lose some history and adventure concerning Barry with the onset of 'The New 52'? It sure looks that way but it's so easy to overlook it here. There's something refreshing about seeing Barry struggle and learn new insight into how his powers work. He's a smart guy and understands the basics but that doesn't mean he's completely experienced in using his powers fully. This adds to the excitement as you feel you are almost part of the action. After reading comics for years, you know the hero (pretty much) always wins. Getting to see and hear Barry's thoughts is enough to make you forget any stories or events that might have been swept under the rug.
The Bad
Next issue promises to give us the full details on Mob Rule. We have been getting snippets but there is the feeling of wondering what exactly is their problem. Why are they a threat and how did they become so evil?
Page 6. Boo!
The Verdict
THE FLASH has a great story, great art and great colors (it's unfortunately not every comic you actual notice the colors). We're seeing Barry Allen develop into the great hero we know he's fated to be. There is an overall feel of fun, action and excitement that makes the fourth week of the month a great time to read comics. Knowing that this issue is coming out has given me something to look forward to each month. No pun intended, but the issues sometimes feel they go by quickly. It could be that you're left on the edge of your seat and wanting more. This isn't to say that the issue is lacking or failing to deliver the story. It's more that you do want to see what happens next. There is a big cliffhanger here. Repercussions from previous issues are addressed. New plot threads are being weaved for future issues. It's a great time to be reading THE FLASH.
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