ABSOLUTE FLASH #17 (DC COMICS)
GRODD.
A name that has struck fear into Scarlett Speedster fans’ hearts for many years. In the absolute universe, the powerful ape is vastly different than his counterpart. This means nothing to the Rogues.
They have their assignment. Kill Grodd is the only thing on their agenda. Wally West isn’t going to let this happen without a fight.
ABSOLUTE FLASH #17 by Jeff Lemire, Haining, Adriano Lucas & Tom Napolitano (DC COMICS) shakes events up with an intense issue.
Let’s take a closer look at what happens now.
ABSOLUTE FLASH #16 by Jeff Lemire, Haining, Adriano Lucas & Tom Napolitano (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Lemire uses some smoke and mirrors in delivering this issue. Making Grodd the target of the Rogues provides some intensity to the story. Even when their mission goes sideways, the writing doesn’t let up on the pressure at hand. This carries back to present time where Trickster takes over control of the situation. Lemire injects some humorous moments between her and Linda to keep things entertaining. This doesn’t last long as what they discover spins into a dark path.
Readers watch as the Rogues attack. With the underlying reasons clearly known, Wally must tread lightly. This leads into a fast injection of action before heading to a stronger finish. The writing shows young Grodd pleading with his father concerning humanity. It is a powerful scene that teases lost innocence in this universe. The fallout is what everyone will remember from this encounter. A cold tactic is used to secure a victory. It makes Wally question not only others, but himself in the end. The final page will leave some in shock after it sets in what transpired. Fantastic close.
READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW!
Haining & Lucas open with the Rogues previously arriving. The seasoned mercenaries never waiver in stance as they get their orders. It leads to what should be a routine mission. As events lead into a new path, Trickster’s full page escape runs directly into the present day drama. Readers see the intense fear in Wally’s eyes as Grodd is in danger. This leads into fast (no pun intended) banter before allowing some humor to take hold.
The good times end quickly as they stumble into a far worse scenario. A fantastic two page spread shows the frantic scene evolving. This leads Wally to jump into the path of action. A full page image shows Wally handling some business before events get much worse. The haunting two page spread of Grodd’s father holding court is an uneasy one. This forces a few snarling glares as parties are getting mad at the other. Panels switch over to a more heartwarming point before all hell breaks loose. A chilling half panel crashes everything down around Wally. It is an intense moment. This goes right into a devastating full page close with sadness overwhelming the scene. Get ready for this page!
FINAL POINT: 9
The hunt for Grodd spirals into tragedy as Wally attempts to end the situation once and for all. Lemire’s writing keeps readers on edge to the impressive finale. Haining and Lucas lean into the emotional layers involved her with the art. Brace for impact with the ending!
Let me know your thoughts on ABSOLUTE FLASH #16 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
