The Flash is one of my all time favorite super heroes. I was a big fan of what the original new 52 artist Francis Manapul and writer Brian Buccellato did to make an under rated superhero become relevant in not only his hometown in Capital City, but a great teammate for the Justice league. Now, Manapul and Buccellato have moved on to pursue different projects and a new creative staff is now in charge. In Flash #26, this one-shot comic is like an introduction on what is to come with our beloved superhero.
The story is simple enough. The Flash is pursuing a new villain named Spitfire. The chase eventually gets away from the ground and into the sky. Spitfire thought she would be safe away from the Flash in the air. Little did she know that the Flash does not give up that easily. Without giving anything away, I will stop right there. The writer Christos Gage did a terrific job on the simplistic story in this one shot. The way he depicted the chase between Flash and Spitfire was flawless. What was simply amazing is during the chase, Gage had time to describe to you how some of the abilities the Flash pulls off in such a clear way, it fluidly went with the story. The best example of this, the air chase and what he did to keep up with a flying plane.
The best part I liked about Gage’s writing was how he portrayed the villain in this story. He truly makes the reader feel that there is something not quite right about this adrenaline rush crazy villain. The writing alone has kept me interested wanting for more.
The art style in this is a little interesting. Maybe its because I may be used to Manapul’s style but the new art that is done by Neil Googe is a little abstract. There are some parts that i see what he is going for but some that makes you want to scratch your head (like the cover). I may have to be exposed to it more but for now, i will stay inconclusive.
So in conclusion, this one-shot had an excellent storytelling and flow to it. Gage’s describing skills is what makes this book work. The art was a little higher than mediocre but, this is just the beginning. The real test will be when a major story arc is introduced. Gage and Googe have big shoes to fill but so far, it is getting there.
Overall Rating: 7/10
