Flash Fact!: The Flash can't fly.
Story
A fun one shot with the Flash that deals with robbery and murder. It's a very simple story with a simple crime. Add a trigger-happy former stunt pilot, a little bit of a science lesson and the Flash and you get a very exciting final act of this issue. Patty Spivot is present for a brief appearance, not at all out of place with Barry being "too close" to the case. Without her the book would feel pretty distant and disconnected from the current run.
Spitfire, I like. I like her reasoning for the theme she's going with, which is flight. She's pretty nuts and I still cannot come up with any good reason as to why she had to off her whole crew. (Punishment?).
The only downside to the story is that I feel that "one of his major inspirations," that could have influenced him in any way, especially being a teacher of the subject of his career and that made him what he is today is briefly mentioned and plays off the relationship as very thin. Understandable for a one-shot but I feel they could have used a relatively less significant character for Barry.
Art
Overall, the art is great. Cartoony-like, vibrant and with the presence of Spitfire, the art, her design, the colours give this World War II, 1940s, "rise of aviation" cinema feel.
Being Nitpick-y: Some of the Flash's facial designs are a bit off. There's one where it seems like his youth has been taken away, another one where he looks like a midwestern country boy that just needs a plaid or flannel shirt to complete his look. Then there are the ankles, they are just thin. Most notably during his free fall scene.
Take Away
It's a good issue, maybe not a great memorable story but still enjoyable. Most memorable moments would have to be the "Flash Fact" scene and The Flash racing and guiding the crashing aircraft. From those scenes alone, I sometimes forget how fast and powerful The Flash can be.
Should you buy it? Yes. It's an enjoyable one-shot.
Is it essential? Nah, not really. It's a filler and does not affect the status quo
