The Fash #16

The Flash #16
Script & Cover: Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato
Art: Manapul
Colors: Buccellato
Letterer: Carlos Mangual
Associate Editor: Chris Conroy
Editor:Matt Idelson

     Flash #16 brings us to the climax of the "Gorrila Warfare" storyline with a mystery of who is the new Reverse-Flash with Thawne off the books.  We get three possibilities.  Also Barry makes a crazy decision that in his view is the right decision after mind speeding through future outcomes.  Overall it is a great issue that will take Flash in a new direction.

    The issue begins with the only new 52 date of Barry and Iris, which Iris goes into with an ullterive  motive. Now why you would go on a first date under false pretenses is beyond but it serves as a reason why Iris could have worked in the mystery.  Daniel West also is a possibility and his motivation comes from spouting off about Barry to his sister Iris.  The third possibility is  guy currently trapped in the Speed Force with Iris named Albert who just gets glowing eyes  in one panel.  This is a curve ball because we don't see Albert's motivation against Barry/Flash in this issue.    Iris appears on the last splash page which should clear her of becoming this new villian.

    The art is fantastic as always the use of watercolor is a good technique for distinguishing past from present.  Iris appears distant and evil because she is hiding something.  This would give long time Flash readers a good reason to accept a Patty relationship if it was not for the pre-new 52.  The Daniel West scene uses his whole body as oppose to just facial reactions to express anger towards Barry.  Also the Flash looks very confident before giving Grodd what he wants.  The regular cover is excellent as it could easily fit in the issue.

     Although Dr. Elias was not present in the issue his lab kept his name relevant. I think it is safe to say whoever the new Reverse Flash is has spent time around Iris as this Flash series reaches another turning point.
10(out of 10)