The Absolute Universe has taken comics by storm! Darkseid has left the DCU. In his wake, a darker version of the universe is left. Readers have seen the trinity of DC make their debuts. Versions of Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman are nothing like fans have seen. Their adventures have been selling big numbers at the LCS.
Now the second wave of heroes make their debuts. Leading the pack is the fastest man alive. Don’t blink.
ABSOLUTE FLASH #1 by Jeff Lemire, Nick Robles, Adriano Lucas and Tom Napolitano presents an all new saga of speed and superheroics.
Let’s not wait another second & dive into the chapter.
ABSOLUTE FLASH #1 by Jeff Lemire, Nick Robles, Adriano Lucas and Tom Napolitano (DC Comics)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Lemire dives into the relationship between Wally West and Barry Allen to reset their narrative. Keeping Wally's situation at arms length adds to the ever evolving drama. The writing portrays him as a loner searching for something. It's far from the happier version of West we've seen in the comics.
For doing an alternate version, this mystique works. The same can be said for Barry Allen. Allen comes off as a surrogate father in moments. Even though he works with Wally's dad, Allen genuinely shows concern for the wayward teen. Can the same be said for Wally's dad? He pushes more of a "tough love" which misses the mark.
The issue does its' fair share of time jumping. It is always a difficult challenge to pull this off without losing something. Lemire blends the pacing extremely well that this issue flows through segments.
Even in the present, a certain group gets a proper reset. It adds more to the combustible element of Wally and his dad. This pushes everything into the close. Lemire puts some tricks out to throw everything in flux. The result is a solid mystery that has many miles left to run.
Robles and Lucas kick events off with a vibrant two page splash. It's loud, bold and unapologetically Flash. Events start slowing down to unveil the worry of West. Being alone in his mind, the images depict his search for belonging. Project Olympus gets a two page reveal. Things have come a long way since lightning in the crime lab twice.
At this stage, Napolitano's lettering maneuvers readers through the time jumps. This also gives way for Wally's freedom to be put to the test. A full page image brings those familiar faces mentioned previously in style. The art team gives proper time to focus on the West family dynamic before speeding to the end.
It takes two pages to truly bring out the impact of West' ill-fated choice. This thrusts his life into a full page shocking close. Readers are complimented with a fun two page epilogue before running to next issue. It leaves much for fans to ponder before revving up the engines next time.
OVERALL GRADE: 9
Is speed absolute? Judging by the latest addition to the DC new universe, the answer is yes. Lemire's writing brings out a conflicted lead to take the baton and run. Robles, Lucas and Napolitano keep the energy high with the electric art images. This series is firing on all gears with much left in the tank.
Let us know what you thought of Absolute Flash #1 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!