Title: The Flash Vol. 1: Move Forward (from the New 52 series)
Author(s) Name(s): Francis Manapul
Published in: November, 2012
Why You Might Like This Book: Read this book if you enjoy
- superhero stories,
- superpowers and vigilantes,
- DC universe, and
- .science-fiction villains.
Who Should Avoid This Book: Avoid this book if you are triggered by or dislike
- violence,
- death and grief,
- horror, or
- dark action.
The superhero comic character – The Flash – really doesn’t need any introduction. But for those who are new to the world of superhero comics, The Flash is the name of the superhero version of Barry Allen, a police scientist who works with the Central City Police Department. Barry Allen was once struck by lightning and doused in chemicals, and that is how he gained his superpower, which is super speed, and he is now the fastest man alive, hence the name “The Flash”.
For those who came to know the character through the popular Netflix series, there are actually many differences between the TV series and what we read in the comic book. This book, The Flash: Move Forward Volume 1 is the first in the New 52 series, published in the year 2012, and after The Flash: Rebirth series. (This is not the initial story!)
This book is the first in the new 52 series of “The Flash”, a modern reboot of the iconic superhero. This graphic novel reintroduces The Flash with high energy, striking visuals, and a fresh origin story. It balances action, science, and character growth, making it enjoyable for both new and longtime readers.
Interesting Quote: “My mom once told me “Life is locomotion; if you are not moving, you are not living. But there comes a time when you’ve got to stop running away from things and you’ve got to start running towards something. Even if your path isn’t lit, trust that you’ll find your way.”
Spoilers ahead: In this book, the superhero fights against Mob Rule to protect his friend from university days, Manuel Lago, who was working as a covert CIA operative, until his life changed. “Manny” is forced against his will to participate in an illegal operation and he gains regenerative powers, which help him heal quickly, making him a combination of “James Bond Meets Batman”. In parallel, Leonard aka Captain Cold, a supervillain in the comicverse lures Miss West to visit him at the Iron Heights prison under the pretense of giving her an interview. A complete power blackout happens and along with many other super villains like Tar Pit, Captain Cold also escapes the prison. Patty does some research to find out the mystery behind Manuel’s involvement in crime and his abnormal abilities, and discovers some stealthy secrets, then Barry and Patty go to find Manuel in person.
Interestingly, The Flash also develops new super skills, which is not uncommon for this superhero (IYKYK!). Following Dr. Elias’ advice about augmented cognition, Barry starts using the speed force to not just move fast but also think fast and now, he can see things before they happen, weighing every possibility! But this superpower nearly gets him killed. And his best friend Manny, his co-worker and recent date Patty Spivot, his favourite scientist Dr Elias, and his crush and reporter at Central City Picture News Iris West are all in danger. Can The Flash save all of them?
The art work in this book is really good and the characters look impressive! This is one aspect of the New 52 series that many fans seem to appreciate. The stories, at least in the first few volumes of the series are enjoyable for superhero fans. Not anything like a collector’s edition or must-have or must-read, but if you enjoy superhero comics and especially if you happen to be a fan of the fastest man alive, you will enjoy this book. I would give this a 3.5-star rating.
