THE FLASH #36: Field Trip!

It’s time for a field trip or two or three for Wally, as his newfound Flash Sense can help more than just Central City! But at what cost does seeing into the future bring? Does Wally’s new abilities lead down a wrong path and towards fascism? What’s the line in the sand, and who can stop The Flash?

Creative Team: Ryan North, Gavin Guidry, Adriano Lucas, and Buddy Beaudoin.

The Story:

Ryan North has brought this run back, and the life is flowing through it in a way I haven’t seen in such a long time. The dialogue is so perfect and there is humor throughout, making it one fun ride. However, I love that this isn’t solely fun and games anymore. Wally gets called out for saving cities on easy mode and first attempts to go to Gotham, which is expert mode. When that falls through, it’s none other than Oliver Queen who raises important questions regarding Flash Sense. Where is the line, and does Wally doing all of this lead down a dark path? It’s a hero’s job to save everyone, but is seeing into the future and altering lives a touch too far? I love that this question is brought forth because it stops and makes us think. Ryan is showing that a comic can be fun but also raise important questions and still make us think about the picture at large.

The Art:

Guidry and Lucas give life and personality to the various cities we encounter within this issue. We go to Emerald City, which is darker and doesn’t have that polished look to it the way Central City does. Metropolis as well is shiny and new, inviting us into a sense of utopia with it. Aside from that, the page with Wally and Jon sitting atop the Daily Planet at sunrise is peaceful, and the burning colors feel so warm coming from the page. There are even little details on Wally’s shirts and aprons that make this issue so much fun. The artwork is truly exquisite and stands out beautifully to me.

Final Thoughts:

The Flash #36 is fun and adventurous; however, it raises some excellent questions, and Ryan isn’t afraid to ask them. I left this issue seeing both sides of the argument for Wally’s new abilities, and it’s really made me think, which is a great detail about this book that I love. Mixed into the fun is how beautifully drawn, colored, and lettered this issue is, and I’m loving every second of it. If you are still unsure of this Flash run, let this issue serve as a reason why you need to be reading it.

Overall Grade: 10/10

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