When reviewing the last issue of The Flash: Rebirth, I wrote: What this series really requires of the reader is patience and trust that the creative team knows what it's doing. I wouldn't go along with that idea for most comic books, but with this issue, I'm on board.And this issue, judging by the genuine chills, cheers and emotional moments, pays back that trust.
I was tempted to just write "Wow!" for my review here, but that would be cheating. But after the surprisingly slow build-up for this series, and the threat of a dark, grim and gritty future for the character, this issue delivers the goods in spades.
It does this by finally introducing the mysterious villain behind the disruptions in the Speed Force - our old friend, the Reverse-Flash (who was revealed on the last page of the previous issue, and on the alternate cover of this issue, lest you think I'm spoiling any surprises).
Here writer Geoff Johns finally starts revealing those plot points he's been carefully keeping just out of sight, and artist Ethan Van Sciver turns in another outstanding issue, with striking layouts, emotional splash pages and high-powered pencils. Colorist Brian Miller also deserves lots of kudos for his outstanding work here.
Finally, the mysteries around the true nature of the Speed Force are revealed, and that's when... well, stuff really starts happening.
I know Barry Allen has been back since his appearance in the first issue of Final Crisis, but with this issue, we see the return of The Flash. (No offense intended to those who think Jay Garrick or Wally West are the ones deserving of the title.)
If you're a Flash fan, you must read this issue.
Mark me down as "can't wait to see the next one."
Grade: A+
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