Monday, April 12, 2010

The Flash: Secret Files: Origins 2010 #1 (One-shot)

I admit I'm not a big fan of the Secret Files comics that DC publishes.

Too often, it just seems like an excuse to separate the comics fans from a few bucks. Each issue generally includes an original story about the title character(s), provides some clues about upcoming storylines, and offers loads of pin-ups and facts about the characters, their headquarters, their friends and enemies - that sort of thing.

That's exactly what you get with The Flash: Secret Files: Origins 2010 (laughably numbered as the first issue, as though there will be another before 2010 runs out).

None of which is to slam the quality of this issue. The opening story is a touching look at Barry Allen and his past, with lots of cameos and some foreshadowing courtesy of the Rogues Gallery. It's written by Geoff Johns with art by Scott Kolins, so you know it's a solid piece of work - but frankly, it doesn't add all that much to the coming series.

The supporting pin-ups are a cut above the average, and instead of the usual dry facts and figures they actually shed some light on corners still wrapped in mystery after Barry's return to the present.

Still, I'm not sure this would be of interest to any but the most fanatical Flash fan (like me, for example). It's fun and well crafted, but readers should be able to follow along in the soon-to-be-released ongoing Flash comic.

That's the one to watch for.

Grade: B-

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