Getting a little more dirty while "Digging Up the Past."
Disclaimer: Spoilerish is a vague way.
Story
The conclusion to Brian Buccellato’s three part arc and the final issue of his Flash run in the New 52.
The story, in relation to the Keystone Killer, was good and slightly satisfying. The utility of Deadman was justified but at the same time seemed lacking. It would’ve been nice if there was more banter and “off the clock” conversations to develop a relationship between the two but due to the situation at hand, the rush to solve the mystery took precedence. Deadman was just summoned for a job and nothing else. A little disappointing.
The visual medium of comic books was used well with some moments/panels that deceive you multiple times and a certain panel, if analyzed in a certain way, seems to be foreshadowing a few elements.
Art
The art feels a bit rough at times but I’m guessing that is due to the the art style. There are few times where The Flash is visualised perfectly with costume, motion and all. The position and angle has been done a lot of times but I feel I can tell that a lot of effort has been put into showing The Flash in that way.
The art was also good but nothing exceptional. It felt like DC’s usual House Style but with vibrant colours with a flat design (almost textureless) and because of that it catches the eye, especially with The Flash.
Verdict & Personal Comments
Overall, It is a good issue. This arc and story seems to be for expanding and moving The Flash story forward. This arc, in relation to the wider world of The Flash, plants more seeds to expand upon certain past and future events. However the implementation of it seems kind of forced. A subtle hint in the background, during the final conversation almost saves this obvious story element and excite for whats to come in future issues, especially with a returning character.
Not an issue I’d like to end with as my last issue/arc of my run of The Flash for Buccellato, especially in comparison to the Reverse arc but you could say they (Manapul & Booch) are more of a team and then ending their run was perfect. My favourite moment in this issue was the second to last final showdown. A heroic build up and end only to be foiled by The Flash. A father figure going through great and extreme lengths to protect his adopted son. Such a great moment.