10 hours ago
Review – Absolute Flash #4: Safe Haven
Absolute Flash #4 cover, via DC Comics.
Ray: This series has done some incredible things with Wally's character so far, but it's also had the smallest scope of any of the Absolute books. We've been following Wally as he's pursued by the Rogues, trying to get control of his speed powers and grieving the loss of his mentor. But this issue takes a big step up in terms of intensity and the size of the cast, as several major Flash players and several surprising figures make their debuts. With guest art by AL Kaplan, we follow the newly bonded duo of Wally and Grodd as they try to survive on the streets. They eventually make their way to Iron Heights park for some free breakfast – and walk away with an invitation to a mission for homeless kids run by Ralph and Sue Dibny, here seemingly a normal non-stretchy couple. And while Wally is initially suspicious, he agrees to give it a chance – especially once he meets one of the residents, a teenager named Linda Park. Loss. Via DC Comics.
It seems like things might be looking up for Wally, but there are some quick stumbling blocks – starting with the fact that Grodd doesn't seem to trust the place. Is it just a traumatized creature acting out, or something much more sinister? It's hard to say, but we get a much bigger clue when we follow Rudy West as he seeks out answers about what's happened to his son. He meets up with the weapons project manager, the one who knows the most about what Barry was working on – and she has a last name that will raise a lot of red flags among Flash fans. It turns out that what we saw of the Rogues so far was just the start – and there are some far more dangerous creatures out there looking for Wally. Amazing issue, with some great moments and a last-page jump scare that sets the stakes high. Another month in, the Absolute line absolutely does not miss a step.
To find reviews of all the DC issues, visit DC This Week.
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