The Fastest Man Alive has been a very important figure in the DC Universe for a long time, no matter whom it was. For many readers, Barry Allen is their favorite Flash, and since his return in 2008 and the “Rebirth” series in 2009, interest in the whole Flash family has once again been high. In the rebooted “The Flash” #1, we see Barry is back, working once again at the Central City Police Department as always, but not everything is the same in his life. I’m not sure this is a good thing.
Writer Francis Manapul is getting back to basics with the central story, as we see Barry trying to balance all the varied aspects of his life. As usual, his work in the crime lab and his duties as The Flash are intertwined, and that is one of the positive things about this character. This part is fine, and we see Barry use the scientific and detective skills for which he has become known. He’s no Batman, but his style has always been a good fit for the character.
My problem is more with his supporting cast. Iris West is there, but certainly not as his wife, and it would seem that they barely know each other. Patty Spivot has the potential to be a good character to be involved with Barry, but readers may not give her a chance. Many things changed with the reboot, but I think this is one of those changes that may be too much. Barry and Iris had been through so much, why take it all away?
Also, what about Wally West? If Barry and Iris are not married, even if the character of Wally exists, there is no connection between Wally and Barry. Has DC thrown out the character of Wally entirely? I believe that would be a mistake. I know that not all readers liked the storyline involving the powers for Wally and Linda’s twins, and I myself did not like all of the aspects of that story. However, that could have been fixed with the reboot. Wally was a rich character, and deserves to exist. Hopefully, DC will find a way to introduce him at some point.
“The Flash” has potential. An interesting first story with an intriguing mystery for Barry to solve. Good characterization of Barry from the outset, showing some of both his talents and his flaws. The Flash is off and running, but in the past, he always ran to his family to help keep him grounded. Where is Barry running to now? I see this as two possible directions. It could be a good series if Barry finds something once again to run towards, be it Iris or someone else. However, it could be a disaster if Barry seems to be constantly running away from things.
Personally, I’m going to give it a few issues and see where Barry seems to be running. However, if too much of what made both Barry and The Flash special has simply been erased, then as a reader, I’ll be running away from this title. After a few issues, I’ll revisit “The Flash” with updated opinions.
