Flash #1
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Flash #1

Writer: Joshua Williamson Artist: Carmine Di Giandomenico Publisher: DC Comics Release Date: June 22, 2016 Cover Price: $2.99 Critic Reviews: 34 User Reviews: 84
7.9Critic Rating
8.0User Rating

"LIGHTNING STRIKES TWICE" chapter one
A new storm brews over Central City and disproves the old adage about lightning never, well...you know. Just as Barry begins to feel overwhelmed fighting crime, a new speedster debuts-but just where did this amazing new friend come from?
FLASH FACT: "2016 is the 60th anniversary of Barry Allen becoming The Flash and it's a privilege to be a part of it," says writer Joshua Williamson. "'The Return of Barry Allen' in FLASH #79 [1993] is one of my favorite comics of all time. It's where I became a Flash fan for life."

  • 10
    Big Comic Page - Jules Boyle Jun 24, 2016

    Basically everything you need to know about The Flash is in here, so even if you've never read it before, just seen the TV show, or are an old follower of the Speed Force, you need The Flash in your life. Read Full Review

  • 9.5
    AIPT - Alexis Simonetta Jun 22, 2016

    The ending's cliffhanger is mega intense and I for one am really excited to see what happens next; they've definitely got me hooked. There's not much wrong here–if anything, there are a few pages that get covered by text so be ready for an intense read. I also noticed that Iris has a pretty masculine face–I pictured her much more feminine-and she could definitely beat me in a fight. Read Full Review

  • 9.2
    Heroes Direct - Eammon Jacobs Jun 24, 2016

    We already know that the villain of the new series will be a speedster named ‘Godspeed', who has been described simply as a ‘killer'. We don't know whether this means he's a serial killer or just a murderer. Not that either of those two things are qualities anyone looks for in an ideal character. However, we don't think that the cliffhanger actually involves this new speedster. The writers will probably save that for #2. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Bounding Into Comics - C.W. Lyons Jun 22, 2016

    The Flash #1 is thoroughly entertaining and a great way to re-start the Flash franchise. The story is engaging and makes for a quick read, while the artwork and coloring are clean, vibrant and fresh. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Dark Knight News - Eric Joseph Jun 23, 2016

    I can't imagine any DC fan not loving this. The Flash is proving to be one of Rebirth's best titles and is not to be missed. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    ComicList - Eric Bradach Jun 24, 2016

    While I thoroughly enjoyed The Flash: Rebirth #1, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't somewhat worried that this series would be all about explaining the DC Rebirth fallout, digressing from character development. Thankfully Joshua Williamson has proven that he's committed to reestablishing the mythos of the Flash, creating a new status quo, and furthering the Barry Allen character. This issue expertly plays into old tropes and gets back to the roots of the Flash while also dabbling into new territory of comic book's most recognizable speedster. Gel that together with stellar work from the art team and you have the one DC book that you shouldn't miss out on. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Weekly Comic Book Review - Corbin Jun 25, 2016

    Whenever there is an alteration to the DC Universe, the reason seems to always relates toThe Flash forthe main cause of the altered timeline. In TheFlash : Rebirth, Williamson nails the transition to a more classy Barry Allen and creates a story that lays the foundation for future issues to come. Carmine Di Giandominico's art makes The Flash spark through the pages in The Flash : Rebirth #1 and does so again with The Flash #1. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Chuck's Comic Of The Day - Chuck Jun 22, 2016

    There's some good action along the way, a new villain introduced (at least he's new to me) and a rather mysterious ending - so the story ends just as it starts to pick up speed. But it's a solid start for the classic character and a real improvement over the "New 52" version. Read Full Review

  • 9.0
    Pastrami Nation - Nolan Smith Jun 26, 2016

    Williamson and Di Giandomenico are a great fit for the speedy hero: the scenes with the Flash literally pop off of the page. We are introduced to some of the supporting cast, and one that looks to play a massive role moving forward. The Flash was the central point of the whole Rebirth special (Barry and Wally), so it is only natural that his series fires on all cylinders. The Flash is winning the race of rebirth debuts, check it out, you won't be disappointed. Read Full Review

  • 8.9
    Multiversity Comics - Alice W. Castle Jun 24, 2016

    Run, don't walk, to get this issue. Read Full Review

  • 8.8
    We The Nerdy - John Newby Jun 22, 2016

    The Flash #1 is a very solid issue.The Flash #1 islacking action, at least until the end, but Joshua Williamsons focus on people skills and everyday issues keeps the story rolling. Of course, the action that does show up just makes everything crazy. The Flash #1 is well worth reading simply for the ending. Oh man. Read Full Review

  • 8.6
    IGN - Jesse Schedeen Jun 23, 2016

    Barry Allen needed a fresh start after the last couple years' worth of New 52 stories, and that's exactly what this new series is delivering. The Flash #1 focuses less on DC Rebirth fallout and more on rebuilding Barry's life and supporting cast. Between the strong characterization and the gorgeous art, there's plenty of reason to be excited for this new book. Read Full Review

  • 8.5
    CourtOfNerds - Benjamin Raven Jun 23, 2016

    Williamson and Di Giandomenico are giving fans an enjoyable, fun, touching and introspective take on Barry Allen as The Flash. Book #1 is a slow down, if you will, and plate-clearer after all the big one-shot issues. This is The Flash book people have been waiting for, in my opinion. Read Full Review

  • 8.2
    Geeked Out Nation - Jideobi Odunze Jun 22, 2016

    Flash #1 proves that DC is really coming around with these Rebirth titles. Don't look at this as a form of reboot or relaunch, look at it as a restructuring of DC's stories and for the best. When you are asking the importance of being a superhero? These are the books you will probably be turning to right now as far as the big two are concerned. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    SnapPow.com - John McCubbin Jun 23, 2016

    The Flash #1 gets the new series off to a tremendous start, with the smart dialogue and character focus being a real winner. The way it continues to work into the events of DC Universe: Rebirth #1 also impress, with the sudden twist near the end leaving me more than intrigued. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Comicosity - Doug Zawisza Jun 22, 2016

    The Flash #1 avoids any major conflicts for the Flash, starting with the man behind the lightning, but it doesn't feel like a brand-new start. Instead, it feels more like a creative team handoff, or a creative experiment relegated to an annual. Williamson does a decent job establishing the key players and their connections, but new readers coming into this series with this issue are going to find more questions than answers in this relatively slow start. Lucky for them, they only have to wait a fortnight to get the next issue. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Comic Bastards - Dustin Cabeal Jun 22, 2016

    Just as a reminder: DC doesn't need this review. The fans that have already decided don't need this review. If you follow the site, though, you need my review. You need more score. That's why you're here and so when you see the score" well just know that this creative team got me to continue reading one superhero book. One book from an entire publisher that I haven't consistently read it three years. I'm still not reading the other guys so if anything, that's an amazing feat in and of itself. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Comics: The Gathering - Kalem Lalonde Jun 22, 2016

    Ultimately, The Flash #1 still remains under the level of greatness I want it to be but that does not mean it is not a great comic. Williamson’s characterization alone is worth the read. He is writing fleshed out and complex characters that will undoubtedly keep me reading this book no matter what I think of the plot. DC: Rebirth still has yet to fail us. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Doom Rocket - Molly Jane Kremer Jun 22, 2016

    Carmine Di Giandomenico's art and Ivan Plascencia's colors have the dynamism and energy to successfully illustrate the Fastest Man Alive. Plascencia colors the Speed Force lightning in vibrant neons, giving panels amazing motion with white-hot speed-lines that blur and crackle. The layouts offer great movement and excitement, most notably near the end as Barry is trying to save a friend from a speeding bullet. A promising start to a series barreling towards intriguing destinations. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    All-Comic - Jessica Petrecz Jun 25, 2016

    With the overwhelming amount of new releases in DCs Rebirth, it is hard to have a title stand out amongst a sea of new title releases under this umbrella. The Flash #1 accomplishes setting itself apart from other Rebirth titles with its subtle hints at unlocking the secrets left over from DC Universe Rebirth while also telling a great story with fantastic stylized upbeat art. This book will certainly be an important read each month if you are invested in the DC relaunch and is a must-have on everyones pull list. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    The Source by SuperHeroStuff - Marc Buxton Jun 24, 2016

    Carmine Di Giandomenico does it all this ishas he handles the quiet scenes between Barry, Iris and Wally with the same visual fluidity as he does the action scenes. You guys, we may have finally entered a new age of greatness for Barry Allen and the Flash, one that could stand side by side with Mark Waid and Geoff Johns' runs. Lets hope things keep moving forward at such a pleasantly brisk pace. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    Newsarama - Richard Gray Jun 22, 2016

    The Flash may not be the earth-shattering debut that the "Rebirth" kick-off had initiated, and while there are no big reveals in the first issue out of the gate, it's nevertheless a solid and reliable version of the Scarlet Speedster. The hints are all there for bigger things to come, including the cliffhanger ending, but the contrary to the title, it seems we may have to wait through a more measured pace before we get to them. Read Full Review

  • 8.0
    The Lost Lighthouse - thelostlighthouse Jun 23, 2016

    Heart. Kinetic. Dynamic. Those are thingsI expect fromThe Flash and this creative team delivers on all three. Another DC ongoing that I'm happy to be sticking with. Pick this up at your local comic book shop or digital comics platform now! Read Full Review

  • 7.6
    Word Of The Nerd - Holden Copeland Jun 24, 2016

    Overall the story does reflect too much on what happened previously but gives us enough to look forward to down the line, and the art style may be a bit grating at first glance but it's something that actually is quite refreshing to see. With new threats on the horizon and major events taking place in his life, the Flash still remains the same. It appears there is no stopping this Scarlet Speedster. Read Full Review

  • 7.5
    Lyles Movie Files - Jeffrey Lyles Jun 22, 2016

    Once Williamson gets a better handle on Barry this title is really going to get up to speed. This is a title that's not quite there, but has a lot of promise. Until then, check it out for the gorgeous art. Read Full Review

  • 7.0
    Comic Book Resources - Jim Johnson Jun 23, 2016

    Karl Kerschl's standard cover features Barry in a typical but dynamic Flash pose, with nods to other members of the Flash's supporting cast, even though they don't appear in the issue. It's an attractive, attention-grabbing piece, albeit one put together independent of the events occurring within the issue. Instead, Williamson uses "The Flash" #1 to examine how even the self-professed Fastest Man Alive sometimes isn't fast enough. Read Full Review

  • 7.0
    411Mania - Jonathan Durden Jul 7, 2016

    I still think this issue is worth picking up despite the questionable ending. It might turn out to be a great story arc. I hope I'm wrong to be worried about where this new story is going. I hope it's fantastic. Still, there are a lot of reasons to read this serial. I am excited to see how Barry handles the new enemy called the Black Hole and how he works with young Wally and Batman. It is also a good jumping-on point for new readers. Which is what DC is trying to do with Rebirth anyway, so, mission accomplished, I guess. Overall, this was still a decent issue that outshined some of its companions for its release week. Read Full Review

  • 6.5
    GWW - Brad Bell Jun 22, 2016

    While nothing speed force shattering has been developed inthe first two issues of Joshua Williamson and Carmine Di Giandomencio's take on the Flash, you really cannot be upset with the story being told thus far. Williamson has restored the Flash and his supporting cast back to classic form, and Carmine's unique art is bringing the book to life in a truly unique way that fit's the Flash and Central City very well. That being said I am used to my Flash getting off to a bit of a faster start, but in the end if we continue down this slow burn route, fan's of the man in red could be in for one of the more original takes on the character in the modern era. Read Full Review

  • 6.0
    Nerdophiles - Jackson Adams Jun 28, 2016

    The Flash #1 is a compelling entry point for a new run on DC's fastest character but it's more iterative than innovative. It doesn't feel like the relaunch that it needs to be after the last 52 issues of The Flash failed to capitalize on the character's higher profile. This is a book that really needs to focus on finding what's compelling about Barry Allen before writing him into another story that doesn't really need him. Read Full Review

  • 6.0
    Nerds On The Rocks - Logan Dalton Jun 23, 2016

    The Flash #1 has some nice flare in Ivan Plascencia's color choices, and some of the layouts used by Carmine Di Giandomenico bring The Flash's agile body and mind to life. But Williamson's story (sans the action sequences) is weighed down by overwrought narration, a boring villain, and a focus on one of Barry Allen's character traits at the expense of the others. Fans of the character are better off watching the CW show, and there's no real connection to the bigger DC Rebirth mystery storyline so it's not even worth picking up for that. Read Full Review

  • 6.0
    DC Comics News - Tony Farina Jun 22, 2016

    The last panel is totally going to make you wish you could run through time to get the second issue. Read Full Review

  • 6.0
    Comic Book Bin - Deejay Dayton Jun 22, 2016

    Without giving the ending away, I will state that it makes me fairly certain that the next issue will be vastly more interesting than this one. Read Full Review

  • 5.0
    Nerdist - Eric Diaz Jun 26, 2016

    In the end, I wanted to love the new Flash series as much as I love the TV show, but I'm just not there yet. I just have to get over the fact that I have very mixed feelings about the art. I'll keep reading, but I wish I was as excited about this book as I was the other current Rebirth books. Read Full Review

  • 5.0
    Weird Science - Jim Werner Jun 22, 2016

    This may only be the second #1 issue for Flash, but I am not getting a fresh and new feeling from this book yet.  This issue continues to deal with some recap and then we get some non-likeable versions of our favorite characters dealing with some heavy handed issues.  It all leads to the birth of another Speedster and while my hopes for this series are taking a bit of a hit, I am still looking forward to next issue.  It has to be better than this. Read Full Review

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