DC Comics reviews 12/11/19 – Detective Comics #1017, Superman #18

The Flash #84

With the Speed Force weaponized against them the Flash Family has a tough challenge in stopping King Cold and the Rogues.

Writer Joshua Williamson keeps rising to the challenge of conceiving fresh storylines for this title. Pairing Flash, Kid Flash and Avery with Golden Glider didn’t sound like a strong idea on paper, but Williamson has made it work very well.

The one way to stop King Cold’s control over Central City is by gathering the mirror shards in possession of a different Rogue. It’s an RPG quest basically, but Williamson makes it a fun and unpredictable challenge.

One aspect of his writing that I’ve always appreciated is Williamson continually references long-term continuity. This time he features a conversation with Cold and Lex Luthor that brings up their history as allies both during Forever Evil and in the Justice League. Williamson respects the history and what’s come before making for an overall richer experience that celebrates the past instead of tearing it down for not fitting his purposes.

I’m not always a fan of alternate takes on costumes but I really loved the winter wear designs for Kid Flash and Avery. Christian Duce’s designs ought to be incorporated into their regular costumes going forward.

Duce is one of the DC artists whose lack of a regular assignment baffles me. Duce shows strong attention to detail, stages lively action sequences and chooses smart angles for dialogue heavy scenes. At least Duce’s freelance schedule allows for top notch fill-in work like this issue. Luis Guerrero’s colors remain sensational with reds, yellows and purples playing off nicely against the icy blues.

The Flash 84 sets the stage for a fun anniversary issue as it continues to be one of DC’s most reliably entertaining titles.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10

Photo Credit: DC Comics