ABSOLUTE FLASH #18: We’re the Good Guys

When one issue is resolved, another rears its big and ugly head for Wally West! Wally isn’t ready to take The Flash public yet; however, he may have no choice as Hunter Zolomon has come to Central City, and Dr. Thawne promises that they’re the good guys. Things go from bad to worse for Central City, which is at the mercy of a violent old magician.

Creative Team: Jeff Lemire, Nick Robles, Adriano Lucas, and Tom Napolitano.

The Story:

I don’t know if Jeff and Pornsak sat with DC and decided this would be the week to bring body horror into the Absolute Universe, but there was so much to take in with this issue of Flash! Hunter Zolomon is here, and his introduction as a DEO agent immediately had me out of my seat and excited. He’s able to see into the future and past for about a minute, giving him an edge when it comes to fighting Wally. The Absolute Universe is starting to expand more and more, as Dr. Thawne returns and we see who it is that she is teaming up with, putting us on a crash course for an epic team-up at some point. For now, though, I love how Jeff continues to elevate the story with Wally and doesn’t give him a chance to breathe at all. This issue had me saying WTF every other panel and it’s time to jump on board if you haven’t already!

The Art:

For a second, I thought we were getting Ralph’s backstory and power abilities as Nick and Adriano twist him and Mrs. Dibny into elongated and stretchy versions of themselves before flipping the script and turning their characters into something resembling a blister as it pops. The way in which we get the yellow shading of Hunter, who is beating down Wally and Tom, who is so matter-of-factly having him narrate how it’s nothing personal, endears us to the cause further. Mr. Bones makes an appearance, which is more like a jump scare, as this issue bends between superhero action and twisted horror thanks to how creative the art team gets!

Final Thoughts:

Wow, Absolute Flash #18 introduces another historic Flash villain and leaves our mouths agape as this issue gives Wally no time to relax. Something bigger is in play, and I truly think this entire run has been left so underrated. I think this issue may begin to change some minds.

Overall Grade: 10/10

Let us know how you feel about this issue and check out more reviews by Matt!