Absolute Flash #2 Review
Becoming
Still on the run, Wally West becomes more than he can understand while being pursued by a special task force. In Absolute Flash #2, Wally travels between now and later, attempting to comprehend what’s happening to him. Certain aspects of his abilities emerge, but he has yet to control them fully. The Colonel and Barry have a little chat, but are not in the best place to conduct words when a phenomenal mishap is happening before their eyes. Wally sees visions of what’s to come, but he is unsure what tomorrow will hold for him as a monster or as a hero.
As the story unfolds for Wally West and his bizarre transformation, Jeff Lemire (Black Hammer, Constantine, Death of X) adds a cool flair of strangeness and intrigue to the mantle of Flash. In Absolute Flash #2, this Flash is nothing like readers have seen before. As all the other speedsters appear to be normal, tethered to the speed force, this Wally seems to be the only exception among the others. From what looks like a device Barry was working on in the facility, and Wally stumbling in, the powers that Wally might have obtained could potentially be something otherworldly than a bolt of lightning striking him. This story path for Wally opens new avenues for what he can achieve with his powers as he grows into them. Lemire has taken this character and has written something worth reading more about. With any character who is just learning how to utilize their abilities for the first time, Lemire does a fantastic job of allowing the reader to travel along with the character as they try to get a grasp of their situation. Readers get a sense of worry, mystery, and fascination simultaneously as the pages turn. Essentially, Lemire entertains without spoiling. Also, Lemire gives the task force a spotlight to show off some more of their skills, which is cool.
Complementary, Nick Robles (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Love is Love, The New Gods) enhances this adventure with an array of unique art liberties. Robles’s linework in Absolute Flash #2 is sharp and detailed. Having to work on the current Flash series adjacent to this story, Robles understands how to establish key moments that impact a reader’s experience when reading a Flash comic book. From the close-ups to crane shots and third-person overhead shots, these moments highlight a cinematic take on storytelling. No two panels are the same, which makes for a more hanging on the by the edge feeling when reading. The expressive emotions showcased by the characters within the comic book were undoubtedly genuine and authentic. As for Robles’s cover art, it stands out on an inclusive point of view that doesn’t focus on Wally this time, but more on the task force chasing him. Granted, there’s nothing wrong with showcasing them for the second issue of a new comic book because it adds value to who these different versions are.
Comparatively, Adriano Lucas (Super Sons, Transformers, Zorro) achieves the same level of fascination with his coloring work. Hit with a massive amount of surprise, Lucas can reel in a reader when reading a comic book. This story is packed with eye-opening scenes that give a whole new meaning to what a Flash is capable of. While Robles may have illustrated the art, Lucas enhanced it exponentially. There’s a lot to be said about Lucas’s coloring work, and from the inner workings of the panels, it’s safe to say that Lucas did not disappoint at all.
Bringing the entire comic book together, Tom Napolitano (Green Lantern, Grim, Jenny Sparks) continues to spark wonder in his lettering work for Absolute Flash #2. Napolitano’s work both excites and executes a riveting experience needed to make this story stand out from the recent books on sale right now. Notably, Napolitano also works on the same series as Robles, so they know how to build on top of each other’s skill set to make a comic book worthwhile.
Final Thoughts?
Overall, Absolute Flash #2 is a fun story to read. As Wally tries to piece together everything that’s happening to him, he’ll have to decide the world he wants to see for tomorrow. If he can escape the task force, that is. Be sure to check this comic book out at your local comic book store or online, where books are sold. It’s getting better and better.
Comic Details
Writer: Jeff Lemire
Artist: Nick Robles
Colorist: Adriano Lucas
Letterer: Tom Napolitano
Cover Artist: Nick Robles
Editor: Andrew Marino
Publisher: DC Comics
Release Date: April 16th, 2025
Rating: 5/5
About the Author
Howard Smith Howard is a passionate collector and avid reader of comics who resides in the city of Washington, D.C. His love for all things pop culture extends beyond the pages of comics, as he attends popular culture conventions both locally and out of state. Whether he’s searching for rare comic finds or engaging in video games, or reading manga he manifests an opportunity to celebrate his fandom. Follow along as he explores the worlds of superheroes, sci-fi, and beyond, always with a keen eye for adventure and a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling.
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