Comic Review: The Flash (2016-) #73

The Flash (2016-) #73

DC Comics

Writer: Joshua Williamson

Artist: Howard Porter

It’s hard to build suspense when the story you’re telling is a prequel for an already established character. In the previous issue of The Flash, it was revealed that when Barry saved Iris from the gang of criminals, he had been shot many times. That issue ended with a cliffhanger and this one picks up right where #72 left off. Barry discovers that there is a bullet dangerously close to his heart. He’s hesitant to use the speed force to vibrate his hand through his chest because every time he’s tried to phase, something blows up.
Since this story takes place at the very beginning of The Flash’s career, is it really a spoiler to say he survives?

Now, I’m not saying this is bad storytelling. We need this drama and suspense to draw us in. Joshua Williamson isn’t a bad writer for this scene. I’m just saying, in general, it’s hard to make something suspenseful when you already know the outcome. I think Williamson is aware of that because the procedure of Flash taking the bullet out of his chest doesn’t take up a lot of time. Plus, while all of this is happening, Iris is right outside Barry’s door. After almost being gunned down earlier in the day, she expresses her fear and also admits more romantic feelings towards Barry. I have to imagine that her confessing these feelings is what gave Barry the motivation he needed to phase his hand in his chest and retrieve the bullet.

The rest of this issue is pretty similar to the last. More of Barry and Iris’ relationship is established, as well as their overall characters. Barry also pays a visit to The Turtle in Iron Heights in an attempt to learn more about him. A few pages are dedicated to the backstory of The Turtle and it’s okay. I really like the storytelling being done through Howard Porter’s art. Sure, there are a few ugly faces here and there, but the progression and composition is great. Turtle reveals that the powers he obtained have basically made him immortal and he’s been around for quite some time. His backstory isn’t anything special, but it isn’t bad.

I think I can sum up this run so far with that last sentence. We’re over halfway through and nothing of interest has really happened. I love The Flash. He’s one of my favorite characters, and it kind of sucks to say his Year One story has just been “Meh. It’s not great, it’s not bad. It’s just kind of… there. This issue’s cliffhanger gave me some mixed emotions because the “big bad” for this arc isn’t someone all that interesting. I’m still going to read this arc until completion and hope it ends on a high note. Until then, I can only say the best thing about Year One has been the art. Everything else is just bland.