If you've been wondering what Barry Allen's early days were like, this is where we get some answers. There is still a lot to learn about the New 52 Universe but we're getting a clearer picture on who Barry Allen is compared to what we've seen in the pre-New 52. Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato seamlessly pull double duty on the writing and art (and color). Not only is this a great look at Barry's early days and childhood but it's simply a beautiful comic as well. Seeing the way they present their stories is like being spoiled. It looks amazing and you can't get enough of the story or art. Read Full Review

This may be the first truly perfect issue of Manapul and Buccellato's Flash. After a year of learning new things about the Flash and his world, we're finally learning about Barry Allen. Read Full Review

The changes to Flash's origin presented here aren't tremendous, but are noteworthy. Some fans might be displeased with the changes to such an iconic origin, but I think they move the character in a positive direction. Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato turn in some of their best artistic work on the series so far, creating visuals that are among the most iconic of the New 52. The strength of the story and art in Issue #0 leaves me even more excited for next month's gorilla siege of Central City. The Flash is continuing its renaissance this month, and I'm glad to be along for the ride. Read Full Review

Overall a solid and enjoyable read that brings new light to the origin of the Flash and what exactly makes Barry who he is. Though it does, like many other Zero Month issues, read too easily. While it's content may be otherwise, it goes by too fast. Read Full Review

If you've missed out on the first 12 issues of The Flash, this Zero issue is a perfect place to jump on. If you know nothing about Barry Allen, then you'll find out all you need to know here, and hopefully this will be enough to entice you back for some more of his adventures. A few Zero issues haven't done their jobs, but this issue of The Flash does everything it's meant to, and does it well. Read Full Review

The reason why I do not like company-wide mandated issues, like issue zeroes, is because it can sometimes cut into a well-developed story. In this case, I have to wait another month for the continuation of the current arc. However, with a wonderful layered origin combined with great art design, the Flash continues to be one of the must read comics of the new 52. Read Full Review

The only gripes Id point out were the lack of characterization for Barry other than his relationship with others. Obviously he is very close with his mother before her death, and cares deeply about his incarcerated father. He also cares about Captain Frye, whom he looks up to like a father-figure. But I wanted more of his personality other than his family ties, or his grief and determination. I feel like those traits are suited more towards dark superheroes like Batman. Perhaps Im biased since Im used to a sarcastic lighthearted Flash from the cartoon. Maybe I need to continue reading the series to learn more about Barry Allen. Either way, it couldnt have hurt to give him a bit more personality in Flash #0. Read Full Review

"The Flash" #0 ends up slightly above average with the dust settles, thanks in no small part to the pair putting energy in not only their visuals but also the storytelling. It's great to see the duo still on this title a year in; it's turned into a pleasant and enjoyable read on a monthly basis. I'm sticking around for year two. Read Full Review

Even though there's nothing really new storywise in this issue, Francis Manapul continues to deliver intense story with some beautiful artwork. So, while it's been told before, this is a beautiful take on the Flash's origin story. Read Full Review

Flash #0 also gives us the lighting strike which gifted Barry with his super-speed (thankfully the New 52 doesn't figure out a way to “improve” the classic retelling the way they screwed up Captain Marvel), Barry's creation of the suit which fits in his ring, and his first action all clad in red and yellow. Worth a look. Read Full Review

The dialogue sounds generic, the character motivations are cookie cutter, and the mystery feels more confusing than compelling. The narrative structure features a lot of flashbacks put in at add points here and there, but they never amount to anything worth the effort it takes to read them in such a way. If you want a kick ass story told in fragmented flashbacks, then check out Matt Fraction and David Aja's outstanding new Hawkeye series. Read Full Review

There are glimmers here and there, but this was…kind of a mess. The amazing artwork just barely carried it through. Read Full Review