THE FLASH #31 (DC COMICS)

DC K.O. might be over, but that doesn’t mean Wally West can slow down.

The Fastest Man Alive has a new dilemma on his hands. People are trying to have The Flash specifically save them. They’re going to extreme lengths to have this done. What does West discover on the way to saving the day? Only one way to find out!

THE FLASH #31 by Ryan North, Gavin Guidry, Adriano Lucas & Buddy Beaudoin ushers in an incredible new creative team taking the reins of the Scarlet Speedster’s adventures.

Let’s take a closer look at what is unfolding now.

THE FLASH #31 by Ryan North, Gavin Guidry, Adriano Lucas & Buddy Beaudoin (DC Comics)

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Few people are more perfect to write The Flash than North. He has a flare of the over-scientific while adding heart to the drama. This opening round plays to his strengths. West’s “normal” family time is on full display. Between time with Linda West and the Kids, his normal routine seems all too perfect. Readers watch as his current challenge is “cooking” a proper casserole from the store. It’s a small, quirky moment that is all too vintage Flash. From here, events become more intricate.

Once a tornado shows up randomly, West runs into action. His dialogue breaks down the differences from him and Barry Allen. It leads into a more comical and steady resolution before duty calls him away. Readers watch as this moment turns out to be more than bargained for. The writing shows the use of smoke and mirrors into the growing problem at hand. Even as noble as West’s intentions are, there isn’t an easy fix to this mess. It leads to a more dynamic encounter shrouded in its mystery. This moves events into drastic measures. The closing panels show how fast events went from bad to worse. This is a story with many miles to go, all to the audience benefit.

READ LAST ISSUE’S REVIEW HERE!

Guidry and Lucas open with a more wholesome picture of family life with the Wests. Panels are very joyful as they work on making dinner. A two page spread shows the highs and quick lows involved with the failed attempt to cook. The mood maintains its’ lighter role until the park Tornado takes over. West’s interactions with Tar Pit play off the comedic nature of West’s personality. Readers see their interaction as an enjoyable encounter until West is called away.

The latest rescue attempt is a success with a polarizing close. West’s reaction to the social media aspect of the save is very uncomfortable. It only becomes more problematic as West discovers a possible reason behind it. The panels reflect the conflicting moral line he walks here. A full page shows the increasing difficulties in managing all the rescues. This comes to a head with a small meeting. Readers watch as the encounter leads into more problems in waiting. The final page is prime example of this. Talk about throwing more gas onto a fire.

FINAL GRADE: 8.6

Wally West’s post K.O. life turns into a social media mess in this strong opening round. North constructs a layered conflict with many moving parts. Guidry and Lucas balance out the quick action with more dramatic moments. West’s latest challenge is one story you don’t want to let run by you!

Let me know your thoughts on The Flash #31 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!