The Flash #30 unveiled the DC Comics New 52’s Wally West and the identity of the Future Flash (spoilers here). In turn, The Flash Annual #3 showed a bit more of the first meeting between Barry Allen and Wally West as well what the mission of the Future Flash is and why its critical (spoilers here). We also learned in that latter issue that this Futures Flash is willing to go to any lengths to complete his mission including killing a classic Rogues Gallery member 20 years in the future of the DC Comics New 52.
Spoilers and capsule review follow for The Flash #31.
You have been warned.
Barry Allen agrees to try to help out troubled teen Wally West for his Aunt Iris West. During their first meeting, where Wally does not have spray-paint, we learn why Wally West hates the Flash so much. Some of this is predictable like the boy missing his Uncle Daniel who the Flash put away (Daniel as you may recall is the DC Comics New 52’s Reverse-Flash). The other aspect concerning Wally’s mom is more intriguing.
In addition, we flash-forward sixteen years and we learn what the effects of Barry Allen being “late” to save Wally West from his death as seen in The Flash #30. Barry is a bitter, angry, remorseful, conflicted and vengeful Future Flash who follows up killing Gorilla Grodd by putting Mirror Master into the line of fire of an earthquake.
The Future Flash is coming back in time for the modern-day Flash Barry Allen.
I’m a sucker for time travel tales and I love the art on this book. I can’t wait for the next issue. I also can’t wait to see how Wally West becomes Impulse in The Flash title’s contribution to the September 2014 New 52 Futures End 3D cover comic book initiative.
Also, I wonder if Barry Allen, current or future self, will have a broader role in the New 52 Futures End weekly as he is one of several time anomalies at play in the DC Comics New 52 at the present time.
Pick this book up! The Flash #31 was a fun read.
Thanks for reading. All feedback welcome.
