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A review by iffer
The Flash, Vol. 1: Move Forward by Francis Manapul
4.0
First and foremost, the art in the New 52 Flash is stunning, in terms of the illustrations as well as coloring. It's more "traditional" western comic book illustration style as far as models go, with fantastic line art and shading. I think that the art it a huge reason (not to diminish the storytelling, which is also good) why The Flash is appealing, because it conveys not only the rapid movement and excitement of the Flash's superspeed, which might otherwise seem like a lame or boring power, but also the frenetic pace of the action and all the thoughts going through Barry's head.
Some of the pages are more "painterly," and therefore it's sometimes a little more difficult to follow the action, but the progression of text is always clear, and I think that this is a worthwhile trade-off for communicating the "feel"and moods of the story, as well as just creating beautiful spreads.
The only thing that I wouldn't wished for in terms of art was for the women to be less big-boobed, and for Barry to be more svelte, as would be more fitting for a scientist whose super power is speed..Such is comic book art, though.
As far as the story goes, I found it accessible for someone with minimal knowledge of The Flash, although I did find myself wanting to know more about Barry's past. Although I had to make a conscious effort to let the "superhero science" slide, I was still able to suspend my disbelief, and I found the characters believable and likeable. The Flash is another great example of how DC explores darker themes and flawed, guilt-afflicted protagonists *and* antagonists. I enjoyed the first two "villains" introduced thus far, especially Manuel and his mob, as well as the Batman-esque public and police resentment of superheroes/vigilantes.
I'll almost definitely pick up the next installment, especially with the TV series due to premiere soon.
Some of the pages are more "painterly," and therefore it's sometimes a little more difficult to follow the action, but the progression of text is always clear, and I think that this is a worthwhile trade-off for communicating the "feel"and moods of the story, as well as just creating beautiful spreads.
The only thing that I wouldn't wished for in terms of art was for the women to be less big-boobed, and for Barry to be more svelte, as would be more fitting for a scientist whose super power is speed..Such is comic book art, though.
As far as the story goes, I found it accessible for someone with minimal knowledge of The Flash, although I did find myself wanting to know more about Barry's past. Although I had to make a conscious effort to let the "superhero science" slide, I was still able to suspend my disbelief, and I found the characters believable and likeable. The Flash is another great example of how DC explores darker themes and flawed, guilt-afflicted protagonists *and* antagonists. I enjoyed the first two "villains" introduced thus far, especially Manuel and his mob, as well as the Batman-esque public and police resentment of superheroes/vigilantes.
I'll almost definitely pick up the next installment, especially with the TV series due to premiere soon.