The Flash #789 is published by DC Comics, written by Jeremy Adams, pencils by Fernando Pasarin, inks by Matt Ryan, colors by Matt Herms, and letters by Rob Leigh. The Rogues have been deputized by the Mayor of Central City and are trying to bring The Flash in. But Wally is saved by an old friend, The Pied Piper. This is a conclusion of a two-issue arc.
This issue has a brilliant structure and pace immediately following the last chapter. That limitless positivity that imbues this book returns at the start of the comic as Wally and Hartley are reunited, reminding us of the family theme that carries the entire run since Wally returned. From there comes a showdown between Mayor Wolfe and the Flash. After so long of fill-in issues and tie-ins, it feels good to have real weight and power to the stories. Past adventures come back to haunt the Flash family, derailing expectations completely. The fight at the end of the issue is a fantastic sprawl for a hint at something coming in the future.
The characters and dialogue in this series are among the best of the series. The joviality of the book is enjoyable, and that hasn’t changed, but something else is brought into The Flash #789. Wally’s confidence when dealing with the villains is exciting, with a superb confrontation written between him and both the Rogues and Wolfe. His relationship with Captain Cold and his other villains is fantastic. He gives a monologue in the latter stages of the issue that reminisces over the awesome things this hero has achieved, planting his respect in his name.
The art is terrific. The chaos and powers being unleashed in the fight scenes are captured brilliantly by Pasarin and Ryan. There can be a lot of bodies involved, and it is sometimes presented as a close brawl. Despite this, it is easy to see what is going on and follow the action. There are some amazing combinations and teamwork where the sequence of events is displayed superbly. The inking is excellent for much of the comic, although the shadows on Wally’s costume may be slightly too heavy, which could be argued for some of the Rogues. There is a lot of comedic value that stems from seeing superhero costumes in domestic situations, such as the West family home.
The colors are stunning. The vibrancy and rich quality of the tones on every single costume exemplify the positivity and fun housed within this comic. The colors lead to many of the powers and technology looking as awesome as they do. The lettering is effective and always easy to read.
The Flash #789 is a brilliant reinvigoration of the series. The last two issues, bringing the Rogues back and using previous events to move the story around, have given the story a new purpose and a heap of excitement. The supporting cast is growing further with brand new plot threads that will forever change Wally West and his family. It is constantly moving and always filled with energy. And with hints of something massive on the horizon, my confidence in the series remains high.
The Flash #789 is available now wherever comics are sold.
The Flash #789
TL;DR
The Flash #789 is a brilliant reinvigoration of the series. The last two issues, bringing the Rogues back and using previous events to move the story around, have given the story a new purpose and a heap of excitement. The supporting cast is growing further with brand new plot threads that will forever change Wally West and his family. It is constantly moving and always filled with energy. And with hints of something massive on the horizon, my confidence in the series remains high.
