FlashGL78's Lab

New 52 flash 4

2011-12-31T16:44:00.000-08:00

Flash #4 "Too Much Too Fast!"
Story: Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato
Art: Francis Manapul
Colors: Brian Buccellato
Letters: Carlos M. Mangual
Cover: Francis Manapul
Variant Cover: Eric Basaluda w/ Nei Ruffino
Assistant Editor: Darren Shaw
Editor: Brain Cunningham

After retracing Flash #4 it made more sense but was not as good as the previous issue. Whereas Flash #2 focused on Barry Allen first using his new mental powers Flash #4 took a look at the other side of the coin with background on Mob Rule. My biggest problem with the issue was Barry/Flash only in real time for the last four pages but overall good.
The writing was good with Manuel asking Barry a question in the opening flashback sequence and potential answer in the last words of the issue. Another thing of note was where the conversation between Manuel and Patty took place away from Barry's body while Patty believes he is dead. Excuse me, but if you believe someone is dead wouldn't you remain close to body until it is bagged up. Iris West seems to be a plot device now setting up future stories after having a bigger role the first two issues. What good is the mental part of the speed force if instincts have to kick in?
The art continues to be amazing grey watercolor is a excellent way to show past events to the reader. The reason the two flashback scenes are in different colors is to describe the weather. Also kudos on the Mob Rule history pages for the hand and foot prints it gave those two pages a greater spy feel. Of course I am sucker for splash pages so the last page got me excited.
Overall Flash #4 was good. I am confused when Barry talks about air pressure because Barry seems to make it relate more to the mental speed force rather than instincts. This issue did move the storyline forward maybe not at the pace I like however now it's time for action not analyzing.
8(out of 10)

Flash #3 New 52

2011-11-25T21:32:00.000-08:00

Story: Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato
Art: Francis Manapul
Colors: Brian Buccellato
Letters: Sal Cipriano
Cover: Francis Manapul
Variant Cover: Jim Lee, Scott Williams with Alex Sinclair
Assistant Editor: Darren Shaw
Editor: Brain Cunningham

Flash #3 was an incredible joyride combining amazing writing and art with the ultimate cliffhanger for a story. The arc also moves forward by connecting some of the dots from the puzzle, involving pigs, discussed in the last issue. Only one nitpicking discovered and Iris West just in one scene that could set up a future storyline.
The issue begins with Barry's thoughts on coffee which I find hilarious because I am addicted to the stuff for about eight years. Also his comments about leaving the autograph were cool. It made him seem like Wally and fun loving. in Flash #1 he appeared quite the opposite very serious. Barry's personalty is being expanded. Another good writing moment was the mention of Keystone City. It is causing me to speculate about where the Flash book is going?
The art was fantastic my favorite panel involved Captain Cold who was drawn more like a metahuman(Yes, I have been playing way too much DCUO lately). My main nitpicking on this issue comes from the central theme of the last issue only being used once towards the end and Barry not solving it ( at least for right now). Hey it will be fun to see how Barry survives and tackles this one man army The use of watercolor to describe the past is once again, excellent by Manapul. The drawings of the pig and the regenerated hand strike me ass odd perhaps because they are together. Every background color seems perfect for it's panel.
I like that Iris West was hardly in the issue and that Patty Spivot was in the building when Barry got shot because it helps reinforces my view. For DC to take away Barry and Iris marriage the Patty must prove more useful in Barry's aid with the problem to justify the move.
10 (out of10)

The Flash #2 new 52

2011-10-27T08:43:00.000-07:00

Story: Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato
Art: Francis Manapul
Colors: Brian Buccellato
Letters: Sal Cipriano
Assistant Editor: Darren Shaw
Editor: Brain Cunningham

The first page of The Flash #2 of the new 52 reinforces this is a very different Flash. One who at least threatens violence to get the job done. That is something I do not remember seeing in the previous Flash series. This was a well told issue that explains how Barry can fully tap into his power but at the same time the villain "Mob Rule" and his intentions are still mysterious
.
The writing was very good and odd. The good part was Barry needing to use his brain to access the entire speed force. Barry then practices this new skill twice as a civilian. The odd part of the story was Barry spending more time with Iris West and she was the one being held by the antagonist off-camera. Rather than the woman he is presumably dating Patty Spivot. It was revealed that Barry and Iris dated once. I am still confused as to who or what the villain is. What role will this new doctor have as the arc continues?

The art was fantastic with the past scenes greyed out. That is a good story telling technique for even the new reader to understand. My favorite panel was Barry doing the tornadoes with the hands. I recognize the move from the JL/JLU animated series (yes, I know itt was Wally West as the Flash.). Also I just like seeing splash pages. I find the use of green for the EMP explosion a bit weird given that particular color of light represents someone else. The regular cover was very appropriate not only well drawn but fit the main theme.

Once again it is a fantastic issue sorry if it seems like I focus a lot on the little nitpicks. The main thing is Barry's new ability and I can not wait for him to use it in costume. What if this new Villian "Mob Rule" is some type of program?

9 \(out of10)

New 52 Flash 1

2011-09-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

New 52 Flash 1

Story: Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato

Art: Francis Manapul

Colors: Brian Buccellato

Letters: Sal Cipriano

Assistant Editor: Darren Shaw

Editor: Brian Cunningham

When you first read page one of The Flash #1 of the new 52 you can automatically tell something is a mist. Barry Allen has a different love interest in Patty Spivot. This was a great issue taking Barry in a whole new direction.

When Barry first gets into costume he appears more cocky and aggressive than ever before in tackling this new threat which is the beginning of a mystery involving a childhood friend. I do not recall Barry being that physical in combat. Another plus is that Iris West is looking to be a key supporting figure by being a good investigative reporter by always asking Barry questions about his day job. However this current Barry Allen and Iris West relationship leads to one big question regarding the new 52. How do they explain Kid Flash either Wally or Bart? The mysterious woman poping up is very intriguing. it is hard to speculate what her purpose will be going forward.

The art is fantastic with Manapul and Buccellato being from the previous Flash series it is what I am used to seeing in this book. The nitpick I have is when you compare Barry's transformation in the interior art and what is on the variant cover there is no chin strap pieced emerging in the interior. The design of the title page and how the credits are done look amazing. I do not think I have ever seen that before.

The story is fresh and new for Barry. It is just hard to see based on this first issue why Barry and Iris had to be separated after Flashpoint. Hopefully as the story develops Patty proves useful in a way Iris can't. After reading this I am tempted to go buy Superman to see if Clark-Lois have a similar relationship to Barry-Iris. Also Teen TItans in hopes of Kid Flash origin being explained.

9 (out of 10)

Flash 12 review

2011-05-11T18:37:00.000-07:00

The Road to Flashpoint Part IV Out of Time

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Scott Kolins and Francis Manapul(p.14-18)
Colorist: Michael Atiyeh and Brain Buccellato
Letterer: Sal Cipriano
Cover: Manapul and Buccellato
Variant Cover: Francis Portela w/Javier Mena
Assistant Editor: Darren Shan
Editor: Brian Cunningham

Geoff Johns’ Barry Allen series finale picks up directly where the previous issue left off but is more action packed. Professor Zooms claims to have contacted abilities that Barry did not bother to look at. With these new powers he will cause Barry even more pain than just murdering his mom Anyone else noticed that Barry has not checked in with Justice League in the series? It seems like Professor Zoom has been changing history one piece at a time and waiting for the changes to take effect.
Now when that is implied I first thought that is when Barry crossover to the Flashpoint world. My biggest question with the first part of the book is how did they know to go to Barry’s Lab? Once Barry, with Bart got on the same page with Hot Pursiut. The most interesting panel to me was Professor Zoom looking at Hot Pursuit without his motorcycle helmet implying he needs Barry Allen around to give him purpose. I just noticed the red around Professor Zoom’s word bubbles could represent energy from the negative speed force.
The art in this issue knocked it out of the park for me. Kolins in some panels draws Professor Zoom ghostly evil especially in the lab. I would however question why Professor Zoom costume shows and light yellow white when he zapped by Hot Pursuit. Did there need to be drastic temporary color change? Manapul’s art ‘(non-action)felt right in its place in the issue. Also it helped set up the final two pages. I couldn’t even picked out a favorite panel or page because of the art it was that good overall.
On page 19 who was that in the bottom two panels my first instinct is to say Professor Zoom because Barry was just shown normally at his mother’s tombstone. This is probably where Barry entered Flashpoint with “changes” mentioned. If Flashpoint has similar visual effects to this issue it will be awesome.
8(out of 10)

Flash 11 review

2011-05-10T20:08:00.000-07:00

The Road to Flashpoint Part III

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Scott Kolins
Colorist: Michael Atiyeh
Letterer: Sal Cipriano
Cover: Manapul and Buccellato
Variant Cover: Kolins w/ Atiyeh
Assistant Editor: Darren Shan
Editor: Brian Cunningham

Geoff Johns picks up the Road to Flashpoint storyline right where the last issue left off with Barry Allen and an ex colleague looking after a young boy. Barry is investigating a potential crime by Hot Pursuit, his doppelganger. After rereading the issue today I have a problem with the number of pages given to a particular angle and even though it did its job it could have been condense.
This issue flows well with the previous one but the intervention coming from the Bart interaction in issue #10 took up forty percent of the issue. (8 out of 20)This part of issue#11 could have been done in five pages in my opinion. It spends three pages on why Barry needs a so called intervention with the Flash family. The last three pages shows Bart getting angry with Barry. That could have been a page less. The introduction to the scene lasted three pages as well and would probably have done better shorten. I am ok with one page each for Jay Garrick and Wally West.
The eight page family scene took away from the action part of the book. Barry’s conversation with Hot Pursuit felt quick. Speaking of Hot Pursuit, his stubbornness to focus on Bart as the time anomaly does nothing to help convince Barry that he is on the up and up. That young boy from the beginning of this issue turns out to be Professor Zoom. I had to do a double take to make sure it was not Bart at Barry’s lab. If it was not for the age difference between Bart and Professor Zoom disguise as a young boy they could be mistaken for each other. Bart is drawn very evil on the bottom panel of page 12
If Kolins had remained the artist from issue #7 onward the book probably would not have been canceled. Professor Zoom claims to be changing history to set up Flashpoint which would leave us to believe it has to be the real DCU.

7(out of 10)

Flash 10 review

2011-05-08T17:48:00.000-07:00

The Road to Flashpoint – Who is Hot Pursuit?

Writer: Geoff Johns

Artist: Francis Manapul

Colorist: Brian Buccellato

Letterer: Sal Cipriano

Cover: Manapul and Buccellato

Variant Cover: Ed Benes, Rob Hunter w/Buccellato

Assistant Editor: Darren Shan

Editor: Brian Cunningham

First off I am sorry for this and my next review coming out very late. I have become addicted to DCUO. The second part of this arc helps the story comes to focus with the help of Bart Allen. This issues I feel leaves the reader with one burning question What exactly is Hot Pursuit’s role?
The writing by Johns I felt was very good my favorite was the discussion between Barry and Bart about Barry ignoring the family and specifically Bart. If this book was going to continue I could see it becoming an equal theme in the Green Lantern books of Hal taking the ring off. The second part of the book has Barry catching up with an ex coworker and she helps determine a motorcycle is at a crime scene that Barry was sent to investigate which calls into question Hot Pursuit motives?
The art was more vibrant when Barry was in costume. I listen to Flashback issue 10 episode while writing this and the two halves of the book are drawn completely different with the second part more laid back. Perhaps the best parts were of Bart Allen speeding around Barry. I can imagine Wally fans would complain because Wally is on this cover and not in the actual book. Even with the cover switch from Flash #9 Wally was not even in costume for his cameo then. I feel like covers should actually depict a panel from that issue.
Flash #10 did move us closer to Flashpoint and was perfectly drawn to fit the mood of each half of the book. It hints at something to Bart as he struggles to find a relationship with Barry. Almost to say, if I am gone then you will miss me. I really hope Flashpoint doesn’t happen on another Earth or Universe. .It is just sad to see that no Flash book will accompany Flashpoint.

8(out of 10)

Flash 9 review

2011-02-09T14:01:00.000-08:00

Writer: Geoff Johns

Artist: Francis Manapul

Colorist: Brian Buccellato

Letterer: Sal Cipriano

Cover: Manapul and Buccellato

Variant cover: Tyler Kirkhqm, Batt, and Nei Ruffino

Editors: Adam Schlagman & Eddie Berganza

Geoff Johns' second arc in his Barry Allen series has a good but not perfect beginning. There is continuity shown with the first arc and a very interesting twist at the end of the issue,

The story begins with a crack of lightning and Allen reporting to work. This marks my major problem with the issue I was hoping they would show Allen a little dazed after coming off being affected by Parralax. It would have built continuity with Johns' other ongoing title Green Lantern. Despite that little problem this was a solid start to a new arc. Allen has a new case which involves a dead costumed person. The costumed identity of this individual could make one believe they were related to another superhero. However to add to this mystery the dead corpse is that of a senior citizen and not befitting the costumed identity.

The art by Francis Manapul was good, but again not worthy of the two week delay this issue was given after Flash #8 came out. The use of light watercolor to show a panel beforehand is really good. I am talking about the zoo panel but I also notice watercolor in the panel above that one even though it is a present time panel. Iris appears to be her youthful self. I appreciate that DC switch covers to the more iconic one fitting the monthly theme. It also works because Wally West and Bart Allen appear in only one panel and they are in normal clothes to boot. I also enjoy the bottom panel of page 17 where Barry off camera says STOP because in the next instant he will catch up to his target.

The one page spread cliffhanger reveals the man on the motorcycle from the end of #6. It was not who I was expecting but even more shocked to find out his name. He is there to stop the biggest time anomaly to ever threaten realty.
8(out of)10

Blackest Night Series 6 Blue Lantern Flash Action Figure Toy Review

2010-12-30T15:17:00.000-08:00

Blackest Night Series 6 Blue Lantern Flash Action Figure Toy Review

Creator: DC Direct
Price: 18
Size: 6.75”
Articulation Points: atleast 9

Eric’s review: 3.5 out of 5.

Positives
Head easily moveable.
Wrist articulation was a nice to have.
Rotation below shoulder an even better find.
Quality of sculpt (except for head) and paint job was good

Negatives
Design of sculpt very questionable, head looks very slender, Flash logo on chest off center.
Figure can’t hold lantern accessory in hand.
Said lantern accessory already came apart.
Package difficult to open.

Flash 8 review

2010-12-29T15:52:00.000-08:00

Reverse Flash: Rebirth

Writer: Geoff Johns

Artist: Scott Kolins

Colorist: Brian Buccellato

Letterer: Sal Cipriano

Cover: Kolins w/ Michael Atiyeh

Variant cover: Stanley Lau

Editors: Adam Schlagman & Eddie Berganza

Well Eobard Thawne (a.k.a. Professor Zoom) is one really bad dude isn't he? Flash #8picks up seemingly where #7 left off with Professor Zoom running around. However this time he says he is free to change it all as he narrates his origin story.

The 25th century, where Thawne is from, is depicted as a scitenfic-social utopia where every task has to be done at an assigned time sometimes even to the second. Thawne stats were predetermined as it is the custom by genetic scientists and his parents. Thawne had a little brother. This is where the reader is given the reason for the story. Thawne goes back in his own time line and murders everyone he percieves from stopping him from his ultimate goal learning about the speed force. For the murders shown in the art he is in his uniform but some murders are only hinted at. My only problem with the writing is one page where Thawne is shown as the Flash of the 25th century. Could this be a single page retcon?

The art is really good in this issue but even great when Thawne shows up as Professor Zoom. Kolins use of red around the eyes really gives Thawne the look of do not (bleep) with me. Out of costume you can see Thawne becoming more evil with each betrayal from his viewpoint. Pages 12 and 13 are where this happens he looks real stern. Even the regular cover is intimidating with him grinding his teeth.

I also like that Barry does not show up in real time in this issue making the events of Green Lantern 59 and 60 correspond well to Flash 7 and 8. This issue would have been better had Thawne described how Barry ruined his future?
9(out of)10

Flash #7 review

2010-12-08T15:14:00.000-08:00

Writer: Geoff Johns

Artist: Scott Kolins

Colorist: Brian Buccellato

Letter: Sal Cipriano

Cover: Manapul w/Buccellato

Variant cover: Darwyn Cooke

Editors: Adam Schlagman and Eddie Berganza

This Captain Boomerang issue by Geoff Johns and Scott Kolins was good but did not feel complete. The first half was a recap of Digger Harkness' life while the second half in present time was a talk with Professor Zoom seeking answers about his future.
The writing in the recap felt forced. HIs first job did not work out and because the Flash was more popular he decided to become an arch enemy of the Scarlet Speedster. The last part about him killing the man who raised him. Why include that in the issue? it did not relate to anything else in the book. When this issue took place as it relates to the just concluded Flash arc could also come into question. Digger indicates he is NOT escaping from Iron Heights. Then why do the rogues show up at the end. The art was good my favorite panel was the retake with the rogues aiming their weapons at a fallen Flash.
The conversation with Professor Zoom led me to ask only one question. Does Digger have to kill Dove to get hiss life back. Before I have only read that he has to throw the boomerang at her to complete his mission. Boomerang wants to know what his future holds so go visit a villian from the future at the same prison. Professor Zooms' taunts at first don't phase Digger but leave him confused at the end saying he knows enough that Digger will never amount to anything. Kolins art on Professor Zoom is fantastic. Zoom really looks evil especially with those red eyes. Professor Zoom just has nasty written all over him.
This issue was good but not great. The art was better than the writing as now I am confused as how to Captain Boomerang Brightest Day mission is suppose to be fulfilled is he meant to kill?
8(out of)10

Flash DC Origin 2-Pack Toy Review

2010-11-18T18:42:00.000-08:00

Flash DC Origin 2-Pack Toy Review

Creator: DC Direct
Price: 30
Size: 6.75” (Barry), 6.5” (Jay)
Articulation Points: atleast 7

Eric’s review: 4 out of 5(Barry), 3.5 out of 5 (Jay)

Positives
Jay’s hat first Flash related action figure accessory I know of
Barry is very shiny
Quality of sculpt was good
Packaging requires no tools to open up
Twist-ties only around waist and feet for both

Negatives
Limited articulation only in elbow, knee, boot and mid section.
Hard to move Jay’s boots
Little head movement if at all (with Jay), after second thought Barry’s head does move all around but it may require effort.
Paint chips exist.

Note: I picked up the GL figures of the same series.

Flash #6 review

2010-11-17T14:45:00.000-08:00

Writer: Geoff Johns

Artist: Francis Manapul

Colorist: Brian Buccellato

Letter: Sal Cipriano

Cover: Manapul w/Buccellato

Variant cover: Ale' Garza, Sandra Hope and Alex Sinclair

Editors: Adam Schlagman and Eddie Berganza

Geoff Johns and Francis Manapul first story arc wraps up in a satisfying way along with a future warning. Nothing in this issue had me yelling YES!!! but it was just solid all around from the writing to the art.
The Flash proves to the Renegades what they think is history is actually filled with numerous paradoxes used by one of their own to secure his job. With everything in issue four being a lie. Top uses the opportunity in the 21st century to try to keep his family name intact by sending an innocent man to jail because an ancestor is the real murderer and if that got found out his job would be in jeopardy. The 25th century maintains one can not be a law officer with violations in family history. The Top was selfish in not appealing to his superiors. The story while atleast good would have been more interesting had he turned out to be like Roscoe Dillon or Sam Scudder. Overall Top's motive and identity were lacking in the arc.
Manapul art in this issue was plausible it was not great nor was it bad at the same time. However it did not justify the delay. With no single panels being amazing I tend to like the splash pages. The only one in this issue had the Flash returning from the future in the nick of time to save his wife from the top. The panel of Wonder Woman was interesting because it describes a real DC anomaly. The use of the color blue for time travel was a nice choice but Manapul and his colorists could have used something different for the future settings.
This final issue may have been a satisfying conclusion but it was not a great ending. Starting with Top and how the future is organized it feels incomplete.
8(out of 10)

JLA Classified Series 3 Zoom Action Figure Toy Review

2010-11-11T14:19:00.000-08:00

JLA Classified Series 3 Zoom Action Figure Toy Review

Inspired by Star Joes

Creator: DC Direct
Price: 18
Size: 6.75”
Articulation Points: atleast 9

Eric's review: 4 out of 5
Positives
No accessories allows for quick setup.
Boot and lower forearm to hand articulation was a nice find
Quality of sculpt was good
Could be first ever normal sized action figure representing the Flash arch enemy.

Negatives
My copy has a bit of extra paint in left upper chest/shoulder area creating a rough spot.
Had to open package with a pair of pliers.
Who is this? Zoom or Professor Zoom.

Flash #5 review

2010-09-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

Flash #5
“Case One: The Dastardly Death of the Rogues”
Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Francis Manapul
Colorist: Brian Buccellato
Letterer: Sal Cipriano
Associate Editor: Adam Schlagman
Editor: Eddie Berganza
Cover: Manapul w/Buccellato
Variant Cover: Ryan Sook, Fernando, Pasarin, Joel Gomez, w/Randy Mayor and Carrie Strachan
Published by DC Comics

In Flash #5 the identity of the mystery killer appears to be solved as the Renegades and Rogues fight it out. In the book itself there is an early letterer error, perhaps a writing mistake and art that does not justify the delay.
First off in the credits it states this is part 4 when this is issue 5 of a 6 part arc. OOPS!!! This issue did not even come out on time and nobody caught that before going to the printer. The writing by Geoff Johns was average in this issue but the one thing caught my eye is when the Flash found out he was deceived by Top he says “The Top” a reference to the Rogue version. At first I thought it was just a writing error but now could there be a bigger twist upcoming. It hints that everything Top told Flash in the previous issue was a lie, no Mirror Lords or Mirror Mistress. Does “The Top” have a history with Iris Allen?
The art by Francis Manapul was on the same level with the writing just average. Nothing made me scream YES!!! So its kind of hard to see the art justify a month long delay. The two page spread was cool but without The Flash in it I had no emotional reactioin. Two other good pieces were on the second to last page with Top/TheTop with Iris as Manapul transforms this good guy who always was seen to be calm into this rageful person in an instant The bottom panel has nice use of color to show the effects of time travel. I am also happy with the cover as it actually depicted the issue.
The issues in this story arc have been steadily getting worse and with nothing in this to get me excited it may have hit rock bottom. The delay of this issue may have helped as the previous installment was not fresh in people minds. So here is hoping the final issue comes out on time and Top is redeemed in some way if it is really him.
7(out of 10)

Flash #4 review

2010-07-28T17:57:00.000-07:00

Flash #4
“Case One: The Dastardly Death of the Rogues”
Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Francis Manapul
Colorist: Brian Buccellato
Letterer: Sal Cipriano
Associate Editor: Adam Schlagman
Editor: Eddie Berganza
Cover: Manapul w/Buccellato
Variant Cover: Scott Kolins w/Michael Atiyeh
Published by DC Comics

Flash #4 is by far the most informative issue as far as storyline details. Top (Renegade version of The Top), decides to go rogue and tell Barry Allen about future events. Barry’s wife is caught in the middle of this thus connecting the dots from Flash #3. The entire issue is filled with action with the writing and art good but each having rough points.
The writing by Geoff Johns was good as we can now see the storyline starting to come into focus. Through Top Flash learns he simply mistakes the Renegade version for the Rogue version. So that could be his defense at trial mistaken identity. That is the writing weakest point of the issue as far as mapping out the story. For just this issue the writing is also pretty weak by how Barry gets rid of the black energy boomerangs (even though Manapul draws it amazingly). John’s makes up for this by telling us about Iris’s involvement with the Rogues.
The art seems to be good even though most of the splash pages do not grab my attention. I had to do a double take to appreciate the two page splash with the police helicopter. The other splash pages got nothing out of me. In the scene where Barry grabs the boomerangs Manapul takes one big panel and divides it into four equal sections. I just found that very interesting and outweighs the single splash pages getting no reaction. The cover for this issue would have been better had it been use for Flash #3.
As the story turns into another gear I initially thought the issue was bad but Johns and Manapul save it with fascinating story telling and art techniques. Now I am pumped for Flash #5 to see if we get the evil Iris. Also the one word “Possesion” for me indicates a spiritual force gets released.
8(out of 10)

Flash #3 review

2010-07-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

Flash #3

“Case One: The Dastardly Death of the Rogues”
Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Francis Manapul
Colorist: Brian Buccellato
Letterer: Sal Cipriano
Associate Editor: Adam Schlagman
Editor: Eddie Berganza
Cover: Manapul w/Buccellato
Variant Cover: Greg Horn
Published by DC Comics

Flash #3 continues the good story that Geoff Johns and Francis Manapul are putting together. Barry has multiple things on his mind while the Renegades reappear more determined than ever to apprehend the Flash for a future crime. This issue finally connects the book in some way to Brightest Day through Captain Boomerang. Also the Renegades hint at some crime being committed against Iris West.
The writing by Geoff Johns, was good, not great but at the same time not bad. Captain Boomerang gets boomerangs made out of black energy. This is further evidence that those brought back at the end of Blackest Night for Brightest Day have retained some semblance of their Black Lantern forms. At first when Top Top version of the Renegades mentions Iris West I found it a bit odd. However what if the Flash didn’t really commit a crime and the Renegades just need him in their time to make sure Iris is safe in the future. Also to me it is obvious there is a bigger mystery surrounding the Renegades.
The art by Francis Manapul was once again solid with perhaps the two single splash pages featuring Captain Boomerang stand out especially with his weapons. It makes this timid guy look like a force to be wrecking with. The splash page with the Renegades cover by blue light is fantastic. The cover I don’t like when it has nothing to do with this issue inside. You can say that is a pet peeve of mine when it comes to comic books no matter how awesome the cover looks.
This issue has me really excited for #4 as I feel this is just one big mystery with the Renegades at the center of it all. Now we know that Iris play a bigger part than other for someone for Barry to talk with. I am very interested in seeing Manapul’s interpretation of Professor Zoom.
8(out of 10)

Flash #2 review

2010-05-21T09:36:00.000-07:00

Review by Eric Ridgeway

“Case One: The Dastardly Death of the Rogues”

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Francis Manapul w/ Joel Gomez
Colorist: Brian Buccellato
Letterer: Sal Cipriano
Associate Editor: Adam Schlagman
Editor: Eddie Berganza
Cover: Manapul w/Buccellato
Variant Cover: Ryan Sook
Published by DC Comics

Geoff Johns and Francis Manapul continue their new look at The Flash with a minority report twist. This issue picks up where the fist one left off with the Flash (Barry Allen) encountering future looking rogues serving as cops known as the Renegades. The big mystery after Flash #1 was who are the Renegades and what is their real purpose? Sadly that is one thing about this issue I did not like.

Geoff Johns does a good job of describing one of Barry’s other uses of super speed. Short term memory acquired at the rate of super speed but it goes away just as fast. The panels with Barry and his wife, Iris West, discussing Flash business out in the open is quickly becoming a pet peeve of mine. Wouldn't that make them easy targets for the Rogues and other criminals? The cliffhanger in this issue did not seem to be as climatic as the first issue but I must say there has to be a logical explanation to this last page.

For as good as John’s writing is Manapul’s art is really carrying this book. When there are no word bubbles on a page the art has to be tremendous. In this case it was when Flash was racing through the falling building. The art is not only clean but simple as well and there are no lightning bolts emerging from the Flash as he is running. In these panels Flash doesn’t use his powers to fight super villains but rather to help humanity. It is also nice to see some sunlight after everything that was Blackest Night.

Overall this was a good comic book but my biggest problem is that I hoped to see more of the Renegades. Even just one panel at their home base would have satisified my curiousity. As it stands right now we really don’t know if they have a hidden agenda and the suspense is killing me!

Overall Rating: 8 out of 10 (On Its Way to Greatness!)

Flash #1 review

2010-04-23T08:31:00.000-07:00

Review by Eric Ridgeway
“The Dastardly Death of the Rogues.”
Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Francis Manapul
Colorist: Brian Buccellato
Letterer: Nick J. Napolitano
Cover: Manapul & Buccellato
Variant Cover: Tony Harris
Associate Editor: Adam Schlagman
Editor: Eddie Berganza

Flash #1(vol. #3) hits the ground running fast as Geoff Johns and Francis Manapul tell a good introductory tale on Barry Allen. This is a very good comic book for the novice comic book reader who knows nothing about the history of the Flash. We get to know Barry Allen, his wife and his job(s) in the simplest of terms.

Johns breaks down Barry Allen to his core while showing Barry adjusting to life in the 21st centuty. Barry has already picked up texting to keep in contact with Iris during the day, yet complaining about adjustable work chairs. The mystery in this story begins with the death of Mirror Monarch, a Mirror Master look alike. When the other rogue doppelgangers show up at the end of this issue my first thought was of Justice League Crisis on Two Earths DVD.

While the writing was good, the art may have been even better. Manapul’s art was easy on the eyes and very clean. It seems like Manapul was born to draw the Flash but that maybe too bold a statement to make after only the first issue. My favorite art piece was the panel with the Flash running up the side of the building. Also there seems to be less focus on the lightning coming from the Flash. I hope Manapul stays with this book for a long time.

This was such a good story on Barry Allen without the bothersome details of his death twenty-five years ago or the scientific mumbo-jumbo from Rebirth. About my only problem with the book is that I wanted more after the futuristic rogues show up. I have become such a big Flash comic fan over the past two years that I think I will never stop picking up the title after a fresh beginning.

9(out of 10)

2/10 comics

2010-02-15T09:19:00.000-08:00

Adventure Comics #7 featured Black Lantern Superboy and Wonder Girl Cassie. Difficult comic to understand in the begging with the art and writing around Superboy. When he says "I mean, why spare your feelings if I'm gonna eat your heart anyway." doesn't match the art. Then at the Fortress f Soltitude the Ring gets confused. Story was better than the art.

Secret Six #18 Part three of their Blackest Night story involving the Suicide Squad. A temporary alliance is formed between the two groups to battle Black Lanterns. I finally understood which person was on which team. Amanda Waller (I don't like her jumpsuit) ends the battle with a Green Light Gernade Art was ok and story became clearer.

Batman & Robin #8 Dick Grayson in London trying to bring back Bruce in a Lazarus pit. I wasa expecting a Black Lantern version of "Batman." Don't know why saince it is not a tie-in. "Batman" rises, Dick realises its not Bruce Batwoman(I think her name is Kate) dies. Cameron Stewart draws Damein a little chubby compared to other artists an OK book.

2/3 comics

2010-02-05T07:54:00.000-08:00

Blackest Night Wonder Woman #3 Definitely the weakest issue of miniseries. Diana joins up with Carol and they find a group of Black Lanterns to battle. Carol leaves to finbd Hal. Read Lantern Mera is nearby and picklss a fight with Star Sapphire Wonder Woman. I just didn't like that fight it seem to rehash stuff from #2. Wonder WWoman vs. Mera was the biggest theme in this miniseries when they are suppose to working together. I know Johns is pushing Mera as a top woman in the DC Universe but the fight was way overdone. The regular cover was amazing but on the last page the Flash looks horrible with black in the costume. Oy!

Red Tornado #6 I guess the biggest question about this issue was which side of the fight would Red Inferno join. At the end of #5 after the eearthquake at Tornado's home. Inferno took Tornado's daughter then dissappeared. Turned out he took her to their school where he transformed into Inferno. So while Tornado and Torpedo take care of Volcano. Inferno keeps Tornado's daughter safe while wanting nothing to do with his android family war. This last issue I felt had more to do with Inferno as he has to find the meaning of life as an android. Was this miniseries going lead to an ongoing?

The Question #37 was the last ressurected one shot title featuring Renee Montoya taking on Black Lantern Victor Szasz. The story was decent but anytime the artist draws rain it makes the art look sloppy. Futhermore the color is way off in this book when dealing with the emotionial spectrum they make compassion a light blue not indigo they make green the background and one time they ignore yellow. They seem to hint Renee Montoya will appear in the blackest night main book but this is an awful issue.

1/27 comics

2010-01-29T09:05:00.000-08:00

Green Lantern #50 totally awesome. If I have one complaint its the amount of screen time given to Larfleeze and Luthor. You have Green, Yellow, Violet and Red all battling the Spectre while BN Flash #2 had the blue lanterns and the Atom and Hawkman had the Indigo stuff. Even though Luthor's one line was great it was like okay where did those two go. Like Hal comment about not being thrilled to team up wiith Luthor and Scarecrow. One line by Artrocius seemed to hint more about Spectre being the red entity. The kiss so are we now to assume they are back together or was it just for good luck. When the batteries got teleported I thought we would get atleast one panel of Kyle.

BN:JSA #2 More Black Lantern trickey with a very misleading cover heartbreaking for a Flash fan. There was no sight of Jay Garrick in this issue. Black Lantern Damage revives Black Lantern Superman and did Jessie change her outfit in front of her Black Lantern father. That scene was way too short two pages. The story was good but nothing spectacular and the art was fine except for the cover which has to rate second to Teen Titans #77 as misleading for Blackest Night.

Superman Secret Origin #4 Superman vs. Parasite. I thought Luthor was going to transform Rudy Jones on purpose. I als found the mention of General Lane a bit odd. I did not realize that was Jimmy Olsen with Superman and that the fight would last the whole issue from when it started. The covers of this miniseries have the same look but give us people in the issue besides Superman.

Batman and Robin #7 I thought that was a female Robin but it turns out to the Robin version of Dick's British counterpart. The story was good. and it actually got my attention away from the art which I thought was absolutely terrible in the beginning the way Batman looked while running and also in front. An unexpected visit from Batwoman who I know nothing about in the comic world.

Atom and Hawkman #46 Disappointed this didn't open with a nok After a quick battle with the Hawks. Indigo-1 tells Ray in order to contact her tribe she will basically be vunerable to any attack. Its up to Ray to keep her alive. Indigo-1 ring is infected by Jean Loring. After returning and restoring Indigo-1 ring he says to her help me find a way to bring the Hawks back to life. The various Lantern homeworlds are contacted. So with this ending and the GL #50 ending you can see the setup for Blackest night #7. Love the you crazy b*tch comment.

Blackest Night Flash #2 review

2010-01-25T16:55:00.000-08:00

Review by Eric Ridgeway

Writer: Geoff Johns
Art: Scott Kolins
Color: Michael Atiyeh
Cover: Kolins & Atiyeh
Variant Cover: Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato
Letters: Travis Lanham
Editor: Adam Schlagman

This issue is a really nice change of pace from The Flash comic books of 2009. To be more specific it is great to see the Rogues heavily featured in a Flash book again. With news of the Black Lanterns spreading across the world, Captain Cold decides to take the proactive approach and leads the Rogues into a reverse prison break. They actually break into Iron Heights prison to hunt down the Black Lantern Rogues. Mirror Master and The Trickster face off with their undead predecessors while Heat Wave and Weather Wizard have to deal with old friends. The Blue Lantern Barry Allen appearance feels like a thirty minute TV show and lacks the action of the Rogues' pages.

Geoff Johns does a great job of taking the reader inside the mind of Captain Cold. No matter what odds he may face he knows how to get back up and soldier on. However, I was expecting the fight with Golden Glider to be more expansive, it ended well before I could really get into their interaction. Even though someone used the Sinestro Corps symbol instead of the Blue Lantern symbol Barry's caption I was slightly annoyed at his internal struggles. It made me wonder if Hal or Ganthet could have made some kind of difference. I am not sure what the purpose of the Flash was in this issue but his scenes did help synch this book up with Blackest Night and Johns totally delivers on the cliffhanger.

Scott Kolins artwork on this issue was good but not great. It was nice to see Captain Cold lose his glasses for a change. Seeing his eyes gives him a new dimension other than a criminal mastermind. His lack of emotion was perfectly displayed and even though his dead sister tried to draw more out of him his completely cool demeanor was completely in character. While Cold had some redeeming qualities Professor Zoom did not come off evil enough. (Weren't his eyes red in the previous issue?) Both the regular and variant covers captured the feel and story from the issue.

Overall I like the issue but I guess I am bothered by the blue ring having difficulties when Barry has been a source of hope and inspiration in the Blackest Night.

Overall Rating 8 out of 10 (On Its Way to Greatness)

1/20 comics

2010-01-22T08:16:00.000-08:00

Green Lantern Corps #44 was a Mogo centric episode as he tells Saleek he has the ability to purge Oa to save the central battery from the black lanterns. Kyle Rayner attempts to talk to Red Lantern Guy Gardner but Guy dismisses Kyle as a black lantern trick. After the purging where Mogo will keep the black lanterns underneath forever. Kyle and the others decide to go find Guy but he finds them first. Now two thoughts first With Guy able to keep using his green ring does that mean he hasn't totally given into his red rage? Second with Guy still a red lantern at the end of this issue I think Green Lantern Corps will remain seperate from Green Lantern and the Blackest Night main book.

Starman #81 tells the story of David Knight, the second Starman as a Black Lantern goingup against Mason and Hope O'Dare as well as Shade known as Richard Swiftr. I don't know if he has any light powers but Black Lantern Starman rips out Shade's heart and a black ring attempts to rise him but the ring goes right through him and can't animate his body. Story was good but art was weird in certain places

Phantom Stranger #42 features the Phantom Stranger and Blue Devil battling the Black Lantern Spectre in an attempt to keep the animated Spectre from focusing on Hal Jordan. During the fight the real Spectre appears and encourages the two to keep battling. The second hald has the two helping Boston Brand put his body back to rest I think we have a clue when Deadman says "...white Light ain't got a snowball chance in hell of stopping Nekron" Story annd art was good. Cover a bit off with Zatanna appearing on the cover and just mentioned in the issue but I have seen worse covers.

1/13 comics

2010-01-18T09:35:00.000-08:00

Adventure Comics #6 finishes up the backup story from #5 left off in which Lex finds Superboy at what turns out to be Lex's sister home. Lex's sister is not well and he enlist Superboy to run a couple of errands for him in order to cure his sister. Howerver Lex shows he has the ability to play god by giving the cure and then taking it away. I do not whose actions are worse Lex from this uissue or Professor Zoom based on what was revealed in Flash Rebirth #5. Superboy throws his list compariong Superman and Lex away. Story and Art excellent.

Catwoman #83 features Selina Kyle facing off with the one foe she actually killed the original Black Mask. With help from Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy Catwoman is able to thrwart Black Lantern Black Mask attempt to go after Selina's sister who was held in an insane aslyum for not having spoken a word since her husband was killed but still believes Catwoman was responsible. Story and Art were good.

Power of Shazam #48 was a bit weird in that you had Black Lanterns fighting each other. Osiris, a member of the Black Adam family rises and does not act like any other Black Lantern by not seeking people's hearts until Black Latern Sobek shows up and they have a duel. Orisis kills his Black Lantern version to destory Sobek in an effort to prove to himself he is a hero. Story and Art were fine for this unusual issue.

Secret Six #17 contines the Suicide Squad #67 in which Deadshot faces off with his Suicide Squad replacement who is now a Black Lantern called Yasemin Soze. Another interesting scenewas the fight to the death between Tiger and Catman but really this saga is much to do about nothing. I will probably not pick up Secret six #18. Story was ok and art was fine.

1/6 comics

2010-01-18T08:25:00.000-08:00

Blackest Night Wonder Woman #2 was very fascinating as we got a look at Diana's thoughts as a Black Lantern. The fight was Mera was expanded of course from Blackest Night #6. However I have trouble with the change of scenary during the fight as it did not match up with the events of Blackest Night #6. Also I do not like the art on the last page of the issue with WW in the Star Sapphire costume it looks a bit off from the ad based on Reis's art.

Red Tornado #5 felt like a better read than the last issue of the miniseries. Tornado and Torpedo finally convince Inferno that Valcano is the bad seed in this family reunion. Inferno reveals to Tornado that Volcano's target is Tornado's human family. Inferno pulls out Tornado's daughter from the earthquake rubble but does not relay this to Tornado leaving a little bit of doubt as to which side he is really on. That is how I read it. Story and art were good.

Suicide Squad #67 was the first of the dead series this month. Also I am new to Suicide Squad comic world so I may confused squad members with secret six members. A black lantern fiddler comes back to target Deadshot and other secret six members that include the Batman villian Bane. The story and art were fine except for the fact it looked like Amanda Waller was wearing a sweatsuit.

Weird Western Tales #71 features a black lantern Jonah Hex which caught me by surprised. I liked the issue just because we found out what happen to the black lantern ring meant for Don Hall(Dove). The story potangonist was confused in thinking that the black lanterns were coming after him and his group for the ring. Other than that it was a pretty average comic book with nothing spwectacular about the story and art.

12/30 comics- Blackest Night #6

2010-01-08T14:37:00.000-08:00

Blackest Night #6 picks up where #5 left off with certain heroes becoming "living" black lanterns and black rings chasing Barry Allen and Hal Jordan(Geoff Johns Golden Boys not to mention my favorite comic characters). Barry Allen takes himself and Hal Jordan two seconds into the future toescape the black rings. Once they get back to the battle and the New Guardians plan in #5 failed. Ganthet says all the colored rings are based on Oan technology and can duplicate to deputize others for 24 hours. This is done to buy some time until more regular lanterns join the fight on Earth Gathet makes himself a green lantern, Blue=Barrry, Indigo=Atom, Violet=WW, Red=Mera, Yellow=Scarecrow and Orange=Luthor. WW overcomes a black ring to get the violet ring because her love for the planet is great. Now I have no problem with Ganthet becoming a green lantern after being a blue guardian since he is more familar with the green power. Comic Geek Speak speculated why didn't the deputization happen sooner in the story. It could have taken place after #5 as well since it seemed like only 5 minutes went by in their time. Also people have asked why Superman did not get the blue ring instead of Barry. My response is that this series is proving why Barry Allen is back and that is Geoff Johns behind all of this.

12/23 comics

2010-01-08T13:12:00.000-08:00

Green Lantern #49 is a John Stewart story(I know about damn time) showing him completely exploring Xanshi now a black lantern planet and coming face to face with a black lantern Katma Tui. So basically John overcomes his fear of letting Xanshi down. The backup played well to introsduce Blackest Night #6 but did it have to be in this book preventing John from getting a full issue?

Blackest Night: JSA #1 typical mini it seems like. Just 2 questions. Who is powergirl mad at? You would think Nekron but it did not say it outright. So Liberty Belle new costume in Flash Rebirth #5 doesn't last long or as far as the JSA is concerned she must be in her Libert Belle outfit since Blackest Night takes place after Flash Rebirth.

Teen Titans #78 shows Deathstorke/Slade son joining the fight against the black lanterns. However once the fight is over Rose turns her back on her father believing her mother is still alive and joseph after all he has been through decides to go under his dad's wing for more training. This story was confusing as no Teen Titans showed up in my opinion.

12/16 comics

2010-01-06T15:42:00.000-08:00

Green Lantern Corps #43 So the end page of #42 didn't have any long term affect with Kyle back alive about 18 pages into this issue. He was "dead" only for minutes in their that only Guy Gardner and Soranik Natu reacted to it in the corps. Should they Guy keep the red ring to fight the black lanterns if he does not completely give into the rage. I think so.

Superman/Batman #67 The conclusion of Bizarro/Man-Bat vs. Black Lantern Solomon Grundy. Bizarro tosses Grundy to the suin and Man-Bat turns his back on a cure.

Justice League of America #40 featured the Black Lantern Dr. Light licking on Firestorm's girlfriend because she was turned into salt and then turning his attention to the new Dr. Light(Kimiyo). Kimoyo uses white light to dispatch him, Black Lantern Vibe and one other.

Outsiders #26 featuers the continuation of Black Lantarn Tara trick to gain an emotional response from her brother and others. Halo and Tatsu fight Tatsu's black lantern family berore Halo has to use white light on Tara.

The Brave and the Bold #30 features Green Lantern and Dr. Fate. After Dr. Fate puts a bit of his energy in Hal's ring he emerges to help Hal in a dangerous spot. Though the majority of this issue is a philopischical debate Dr Fate guides Hal off the terror planet. The art was story were good considering it was a short story that sahold have no ramafications for them in the future.

12/9 comics.

2009-12-14T15:17:00.000-08:00

Adventure Comics #5 the second part of the Superboy-Prime Blackest Night saga. The most funny part was Superboy-Prime flying through the DC offices. I would not take what happened to him seriously once he put the black ring on since it was an alternate earth. The ending of thee story was weird with Laurie wearing a black ring saying hope. The Superboy co-feature was confusing given that he is a "living" Black Lantern in the Blackest Night main book.

Booster Gold #27 Featured Booster and Blue Bettle Jamie Reyes taking on a Black Lantern Ted Kord. While the use of Light gun was cool to generate the green light to help defeat the Black Lantern. The most powerful images came after Booster and Jamie put Kord to rest again so Booster never forgets his friend and Jamie knows the legacy of his powers while being the best Jamie he can be.

R.E.B.E.L.S. #11 While most of the story and characters skip my mind Vril Dox with a Sinestro Corps ring and his group battle Black Lanterns Stealth and Harbinger. While how they made their green light is given a scientific explanation. The biggest thing at the end of issue was that Vril was stripped of the ring for insubordination I guess that was a feature in how Sinestro made his rings.

Doom Patrol #5 It just didn't seem like there was any conclusion for this Blackest Night tie in?

2009 DC Holiday special. Just a bunch of extremely short stories on how peeople in the DCU spend the Holidays. Just two quick comments. That remark by Wally with Linda holding up the sleepwear was confusing to me. Also do Christians get upset when there are so many Jewish/Hanukah references in a Superman story?

Blackest Night: The Flash #1 review

2009-12-10T18:44:00.000-08:00

Review by Eric W. Ridgeway

Writer: Geoff Johns
Art: Scott Kolins
Color: Michael Atiyeh
Cover: Kolins w/Atiyeh
Variant: Francis Manapul w/ Brain Buccellato
Letter: Travis Lanham
Editor: Adam Schlagman
Published by DC Comics

Now that the second set of Blackest Night miniseries has started my first question was where would they start in relation to the rise of Nekron? Well, if Blackest Night: The Flash is any indication they will mostly take place after the Black Lanterns have charged the Black Central Power Battery to one hundred percent. This issue, much like Flash Rebirth focuses on Barry Allen.

Written by Geoff Johns this issue has many scenes with Barry coming face to face with Black Lantern Professor Zoom and a Black Lantern Solovar. The issue does a great job of recapping Barry’s friendship with Solovar to the point where Barry would show him stuff he would not allow Batman to review. I had no idea Barry had a deep friendship with Solovar or that a Flash can see the border to Gorilla City. If there is anything to complain about it would be that Barry was seen twice in so called Black Lantern vision and this far into Blackest Night he would know to keep his emotions in check. The majority of this issue is written in Barry’s point of view which can be boring to the readers.

The cover was an excellent homage to Flash Rebirth. Scott Kolins art is great but at the same time no panel or images really got me cheering. My favorite interior panel was Barry getting rid of a Black Lantern Professor Zoom for the time being. I really like the way Kolins drew Barry in this book with the lightning trailing behind him as he is running. It seems like a nice middle ground especially for how much lightning is used around Barry in Rebirth and Blackest Night. If the art lacks anywhere in this book it is that Wally West just appears in one panel and I had to double check to make sure it was him. Also the variant cover by Francis Manapul doesn’t appear into the story. Overall this issue was kind of a letdown because it didn’t fill me with excitement like Blackest Night #5. I would love to have seen more Wally but maybe he will get more attention in the next few issues of this book or in Blackest Night.

Overall Rating: 7 out of 10 (Above Average)

12/3 Comics

2009-12-08T16:31:00.000-08:00

Blackest Night: The Flash will be its own post once the review at thecomicaddiction.com is posted

Blackest Night Wonder Woman. Ok since when does Wonder Woman carry around a battle ax like Thor? Also I had a problem with her hair see battles like black Lanterns of war veterans as well as Maxwell Lord. I just remembered this issue was pushed back because of the ring promotion that's why it matches up with the end of Blackest Night #4 and not #5

Red Tornado #4 kind of read like Flash Rebirth #5 with no real advancement in the story other than Tornado and Torpedo now have a sleeping Inferno with them after Torpedo knocked him out while trying to convince Volanco lied to him about them causing his parents death. Art was good I will still pick #5 but the story better improve!!!

11/25 comics

2009-12-08T15:42:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the late post, just being lazy.

First Green Lantern #48 Boy how quickly has Larfleeze changed to comic relief compared to how he was portrayed from the Agent Orange storyline. Also a Green stop sign construct by Hal was a bit weird. Why does Larfleeze want his own guardian because I think once Blackest Night is all said and done the various corps leaders become the new guardians meaninbg Larfleeze would be a guardian himself and he could recruit a real Orange Lantern Corps.

Blackest Night #5 picks up where Green Lantern #48 left off with a splash page gave me a powers rangers moment when the various corps leader charging up/oath saying. I thought Larfleeze had an oath. I am thankful Flash Rebirth #5 came out a week before not to spoil Wally's new costume. I had to do a double take on the panel with Bart asking good or bad news to tell Wally from Barry so that will become a colorist problem maybe until time ends. The issue could have ended with the Black Lantern Batman splash and still be great. I think the guardians are finished no matter what. Some comic podcast have speculated about Nekron turning out to be a good guy. I mixed on that but it would help get rid of the guardians. For the heroes that got turned into like "living" black lanterns I believe will be fine at the end of Blackest Night. Bart Allen has his upcoming
Kid Flash series.

Superman Secret Origin #3 sees the miniseries change from a Smallville type background to the movies setting as we are introduced to Perry White, Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen. Clark finds himself in metropolis appartently under Lex's rule and after a quick introduction of the classic Superman characters. Lois and Clark(Ha!) team up (with Clark unaware) to sneak into a Lex press conference because he has banned the rundown daily planet from attending all. Lex introduces Metallo in robot form without a source/host. It ends with Clark as Superman saving Lois falling from the building with a helicopter falling as well. Clark this he made a mistake revealing himself too soon. Writing and art are excellent.

Teen Titans #77 Is Deathstorke the same as Slade from the animated series?

Justice League of America #39features Vixen, Red Tornado, Zantanna, and a disfigured Plastic Man and a couple of others facing Black Lanterns. Zantanna fights a Black Lantern version of her father. While a Black Lantern Vibe shows up to battle the others inside the Hall of Justice. A Dr Light Black Lantern battles them in JLA #40.

Flash Rebirth #5 review

2009-12-06T07:58:00.000-08:00

Review by Eric Ridgeway

Mother, May I

Writer: Geoff Johns
Artist: Ethan Van Sciver
Letters: Rob Leigh
Colors: Brian Miller of Hi-Fi
Editor: Joey Cavalieri
Published by DC Comics

I don’t think I’ve ever seen a so many heroes undergo a costume change in such unique fashion. Yet in Flash Rebirth #5 we get new costumes for Wally West, his daughter Irey and Jessie Quick in a huge two page splash. Although I could not figure out which one of the girls was mentioned in the preview when they referred to “a new speedster in old boots.” Were they referring to Irey as Impulse since Jessie quickly falls out of the lime light? There is also a lot of information and changes that happen quickly in this issue that can be fairly confusing; especially if you are a fairly new Flash reader like me.

Except for a couple pages in the West home, this issue completely focuses on the battle between the Flash family and Professor Zoom. During their fight Zoom reveals that he has been the cause for almost every little mishap in Barry’s youth no matter how petty. He is responsible for everything from Barry falling down some stairs and breaking his arm to the death of his dog. Time travel in the wrong hands proves to be disastrous. Before turning the page to the reveal of Zoom biggest crime I found myself screaming in my mind, “Get him Barry!” However Zoom’s masterstroke against Barry is yet to come and also serves as the cliff hanger to the issue!

I found Geoff Johns’ writing to be pretty good except for the explanation for Iris West’s youth. It seems like simple answer for a question that has been bothering Flash fans since the premiere issue of the series. Did we really have to wait five issues for that simple answer? Ethan Van Sciver’s art was middle of the road, not his best work but also not his worst. Except for the big splash page revealing some of the new costumes everything else was pretty average. Nothing else in this issue had me screaming “yes” but one thing really bugged me. The white eyes Wally has from his mask. Call it a pet peeve but I just don’t think it works. I really enjoyed the writing (to a degree) and the art was good enough to enjoy. This issue was not worth the delay and overall it was step back from the previous issue but it is still good.

Overall rating 8 out of 10 (On Its Way to Greatness)

11/18 comics

2009-11-22T14:01:00.000-08:00

First off my Flash Rebirth #5 thoughts/review will be posted later as its own entry. It was meant as a review for thecomicaddiction.com but one of the editors beat me too it. I sent them my review anyway to hopefully edit and posted there if they want. I will still post it here anyway when its as perfect as possible.

These are all blackest night tie ins so enjoy

Adventure Comic #4 features Superboy prime rather than regular Superboy(Connor Kent) who is in the Blackest Night storyline. This story is kind of weird Superboy Prime is actually reading the Blackest Night titles. I guess he's on Adventure Comics #4. (LOL!!!) and says "OH-NO." He makes his parents take him to the comic shop so he could buy Adventure Comics #5 so he can find out what happens to him. In his life people have hated him as he is caaught being a hero or a villian. Also his parents are afraid of him. Black Lantern Alexander Luthor shows up to trigger an emotional response. During the fight he saves his parents convinced they love him. As some other Black Lanterns invade it is teased he will die in #5. Overall the story was good and fun. The art was good as I have no complaints.

Superman/Batman #66 spun off the Solomon Grundy miniseries by Scott Kolins who will do Blackest Night: the Flash beginning next month. The story features Grundy, Bizarro and Man-Bat. The Man-Bat's wife is looking for a permanet cure to get him back to normal but before he can get the cure Bizarro kidnaps him. When Bizarro speaks he actually means the reverse. Man-Bat and Bizarro run into Black Lantern Grundy and a fight ensues. Man-Bat somehow makes back to his wife and looks confused between accepting the cure and helping Bizarro deal with Grundy. Just like Bizarro is dumbfounded as to why his friend is attacking him. The story is good as it looks like the two "good guys" are each dealing with some internal conflict. Kolins doing the art on this book made it even better since he knew Grundy and Bizarro from the miniseries. Man-Bat looks ok.

Outsiders #24 took Black Lantern Terra from the Blackest Night Titans mini and put her at the headquarters for the outsiders to find her brother Geo-Force alongside Metamorpho, Black Lightning and Owlman(who I have only seen depicted as a villian s this was a bit odd) Terra says she is tired of being a black lantern after battling the Titans and Beast Boy. They try to cut the ring but it circle around and regenerates the finger it was on. Terra story is had is swallow she is probably acting to get an emotionail response. The second half of the issue I feel I can't comment on since the characters were all new to me. No problems with the story and art.

Comics from 11/4 and 11/11

2009-11-16T10:36:00.000-08:00

So on 11/4 I picked up Red Tornado #3 and Doom Patrol #4(Blackest Night tie-in).

Red Tornado #3 the story continues to be fine it is taking Red Tornado in a new direction. The cover made no sense it features Tornado, Torpedo and Inferno when Inferno doesn't meet the the other two in the issue.

I really have no concrete thoughts on Doom Patrol #4 I just got it for the yellow ring.

For 11/11
Green Lantern Corps #42 The devour will new command for the Black Lantern got old real quick. The death at the end was stunning I want him back as I think he has an interesting storyline ahead.

Booster Gold #26 pretty much same thing as Doom Patrol got it for a ring. Except I know them from DCAU.

Rebels #10 Its interesting that the Sinestro Corps showed up in this story. The conclusion was even more interesting a yellow ring fell to the main character of the book. This will be strange next issue.

10/28 Comics

2009-10-30T09:51:00.000-07:00

This week I pick up Blackest Night #4, Green Lantrern #47, Blasckest Night Titans #3 and Superman Secret Origin #2.

In Blackest Night #4 quite simply it was Barry Allen in charge. With Hal Jordan busy trying to unify the various corps leader its up to Barry,Mera and Atom to evacuate the Earth as the Black Lanterns power levels near 100%. I didn't know things the Atom touches can shrink. I found it amazing The Atom got Barry and Mera to travel through a phone line to the phone company. Once there Flash tells the other two until the JLA is alltogether they need to act like Superman and Wonder Woman with a little pep talk. Mera and Atom join the JSA for the fight while Barry gets the word out about the situation until the plan changes and goesd to Coast city just in time to see Nekron rise. The art was good and simple with blurs around Barry and Bart Allen it may not be as detailed as Ethan Van Sciver in Flash Rebirth also it was nice to see Wonder Woman lone panel have action.

In Green Lantern #47 Hal and Sinestro take on Black Lanterns versions of Abin and Arin Sur. Abin sur believes Hal hasn't lived up to his legacy as a Green Lantern. While Arin Sur says she loves Sinestro. Combined with Carol Ferris, the Star Sapphire and Indigo-1 they defeat the Sur siblings. I liked how this issue ended with Atrocius and Larflezze. I want to see how they interact with each other. Story and art are good.

In Blackest Night Titans #3 the focus seemed to be on Donna Troy as the titans are battling their dead friends. Donna Troy dealing with her family and Beast Boy with. The struggle continues until all the Black Lanterns decide to attack Dove and simply vanish becase they can't read any emotion on Dove just a white scribble and has a talk with Don Hall the original Dove with felt like a flashback due to the background color change it confused. Donna tells Dove to stay by her as she feels she is a main target of the Black Lanterns as thy prepare for the main fight. Story and art are good.

Superman secret origins #2 has Superboy meetinng the futurastic Legion of Super Heroes. He also kind of pushes Lana away something that I thought would be relsoved in the issue after a Legion member asks him if he has a girlfriend. The art is fantastic especially for drawing Clark like Christopher Revee. its simply amazing. Good short story for retelling his beginning bit by bit.

10/21 Comics

2009-10-22T16:11:00.000-07:00

The new comics I picked up were Blackest Night: Superman #3 and Brave and the Bold #28.

First Blackest Night: Superman #3 was kind of a let down because where was the Krypto-Dex Starr Fight? It is anyone's guess where that will take place now. How was Connor Kent able to generate light from the Medusa Mask? The art was good but the story not so much.

Brave and the Bold #28 The Flash(Barry Allen) and the Blackhawks. Flash travels back in time to World War II suffers a broken leg and meets the Blackhawks who for some reason are grounded. During his time in WWII Barry was given a gun which forces Barry to think is it ever OK to kill? The Blackhawks see it as a matter of survival given the circumstances. So there is an ideological conflict to this story. Barry returns to the present once healed up. The story was good, different but not great. The art was lacking with blank eyes in the mask that look may work for T. V. I don't know about comics though.

Flash thoughts(literally)

2009-10-16T10:55:00.000-07:00

Ok, now Flash Rebirth #5 has been push back another week to November 11th(most likely available November 12th due to Veterans day). The delay is fine because I no longer have to stress about going to the comic shop from the train station for the issue(the yellow ring maybe another story.)

Two things

1. Geoff Johns seems to indicate on CBR that Wally's West new costume will debut in Flash Rebirth #5 not #6 as previously stated by the Rebirth artist Ethan Van Sciver.

2. Blackest Night: Flash #2 partial solict is out.

The partial solict of Blackest Night Flash #2 tells me right now DC is not planning a delay of the miniseries. If Wally new costume's was coming in #6, given #5 has been redalayed for a full month who knew when Blackest Night Flash would start to avoid costume spoiling.