What’s different: Like Aquaman #1, it’s easier to talk about what’s staying the same. From what little information we have so far, the Flash’s world hasn’t changed all that much. The mask is a little different with an added chin covering. But beyond the minor cosmetic difference, there don’t appear to be any in-story changes.
The big change is the creative team. And on that front, The Flash is taking a big hit. Big time writer boy and DC big wig, Geoff Johns has moved on to bluer pastures with Aquaman (see what I did there?). In what will be a theme for these relaunched books, artist Francis Manapul will be pulling double duty as penciler and writer.
If that sounds like a pretty big risk, well, it kind of is. Manapul is bringing along Brian Buccellato as a co-writer. This should help even the load. At least there will be one experienced writer at the helm.
While I wasn’t in love with Johns’ run on The Flash, I didn’t hate it either. But for me, the appeal of The Flash hasn’t been the writing. The Flash is one of the few books I’ve been reading primarily for the art. So as long as Manapul is drawing and the writing doesn’t take too big of a nose dive, I’m relatively happy.
The big changes, if there are any, likely have to do with rest of the Flash family. With no JSA books announced, you have to wonder if Jay Garrick even exists. There is yet no word of Wally West. If Wally is around (and I assume he is) I’m guessing the relaunch will be a convenient excuse to get rid of the wife and kids. And we’ve seen the changes to Bart coming in Teen Titans.
Oh, and the solicit tells us one of Barry’s close friends will become a villain:
The Fastest Man Alive returns to his own monthly series from the writer/artist team of Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato! The Flash knows he can’t be everywhere at once, but what happens when he faces an all-new villain who really can! As if that’s not bad enough, this villain is a close friend!
What’s the same: Aside from the costume tweak, this could easily be the next issue in the current run of The Flash rather than a number 1. In other words, there’s no indication of major changes for Barry or this book.
Kind of ironic considering this all started with Flashpoint.
Chances for Success: Coming off of Flashpoint, I expect The Flash to do well. Probably not as well as when Johns was writing. But The Flash’s loss is Aquaman’s gain. Even without Johns, I think The Flash will be a good performer. Booster Gold hung around for a while after Johns’ departure. If Booster Gold can do it, it should be know problem for The Flash.
Final thought: Rumor is that there are still some books coming after the relaunch. I still want my Speed Force book, DC!
Green Lantern: The New Guardians #1
Justice League International #1
