Absolute Flash #1 Review

Today is the day, our favourite universe is finally expanding… Absolute Flash has hit the shelves! There has been a lot of hype for this comic since they first announced last year, and with good reason. The Absolute series lead by Scott Snyder has been nothing but a success – not just with us here at Nerdy Nook, but with the entire comic book community – we could not be more excited to take a deep dive into the new addition to the universe. So without delay, lets get into our Absolute Flash #1 review.

In Nerdy Nook fashion, this review will be spoiler free, though since this is the first of the series we will be giving a little more context than we normally do just so readers can understand what exactly this comic is about.

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The Review

Image by DC Comics

What happens to the Flash without the help of the speedster family, without the speed force? That’s where Absolute Flash comes in. In Absolute Flash #1, we follow 15 year old army brat Wally West on his journey to discovering himself and his ultimate power. When Wally meets Dr. Barry Allen, his life changes for the better

Like the rest of the Absolute universe, Absolute Flash successfully delivers us an unique story in an unique universe with so much potential. Right from the start, we get a throwback to some beloved characters, but it is very clear to see that Wally West is the star of this comic. I was sceptical about this, as a much bigger fan of Barry Allen as Flash, I was not sure what to make of Wally West being the Absolute universe’s Flash, but with an open mind and the potential that the rest of the Absolute series has showed me, I powered through.

Absolute Flash #1 has a much darker feeling too it than what we usually see from Flash, but that is to be expected in the Absolute universe. One thing I did not expect is what exactly haunts Wally West. This issue leaves readers shocked and in complete confusion, we know something big happened but how it happened is something we will have to see progress over this first arc – Wally West can almost be perceived as bad guy by the end of the issue which was not what I expected of a Flash comic.

Image by DC Comics

Now, lets talk about the art in this comic book. Everything felt just incredibly bright and lively which may have come a surprise since it is fairly different from the rest of the Absolute universe, but it fit the Flash aesthetic perfectly. There are some scenes where Wally is using his power which feel very similar to the artwork showcased in Absolute Superman, but other than that it is very different.

That is not to discredit Absolute Flash’s talented artist Nick Robles and incredible colourist Adriano Lucas who both did an superb job of bringing this one to life, just the difference will take some time to sink in for me – this is something I really must get used to, especially given that the preview of Absolute Martian Manhunter showcased here. It’s just showed me this universe will be filled with art as unique as the stories they tell.

We don’t know exactly how Wally gets his powers and what happens after, but we do see a time jump to 1 year into the future where the main villain seems to be gathering intel on Wally West which means we are currently following 3 time periods in one arc. I hope against all odds that this does not start to get confusing. I do have faith that it will be executed well since this is something we see throughout the entire universe and not just Absolute Flash, though usually we only see present and past, adding another layer to that does have me slightly concerned for readers but only time will tell.

Image by DC Comics

Absolute Flash #1 was a strong start of yet another excellent title under the All In initiative and is brought to life with vibrant and beautiful artwork. Jeff Lemire is a superb storyteller and has already shown us how unique and thrilling Absolute Flash is going to be – a worthy addition to the Absolute universe.

What are your thoughts on Absolute Flash #1? Is there any characters you would like to see make an appearance in later issues? Whatever your thoughts and feelings, share them with us in the comment section of this article.

See also: Most anticipated comics of 2025

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