By Hunter T. Patrick

Perfect Storm is over. The last several issues which all seemed to tie up several elements of Williamson’s story has ended. We all know it is leading up to the epic Flash War. This issue is all about lead up, nothing epic about it. Flash War still has yet to start, and Perfect Storm ended so now we are dealing with the aftermath as we catch up with a few characters. One character, in particular, is mainly there just to lead into yet another title (for more information, instead of getting the review promised here, go see Teen Titans Special #1 in June). This is comics, and there are several lead-ins to various other lead-ins. That’s fine, but this is all this issue is. If it was a chessboard, it is just moving pawns up a spot or two. Luckily the later the issue goes we see a tiny bit more stuff happen, inevitable stuff, but still really glad for it too.

The latter part of the issue serves some nice moments that feels years in the making at that is what really defines the issue. After reading several small moments, this issue establishes thing that Williamson wasn’t hiding that’s coming, but it still is wonderful to finally get these things to happen. Do not read this expecting Flash War to start, or even a straight prelude as of yet. There are still pieces of the board that needs moving. Luckily this issue does not have much filler but does move things along. This issue does feel like a 45thissue which is a great thing that Williamson keeps telling his story and tying everything up before the big War. A lot of superhero comics would not have been able to tell a story that keeps going consistently like this, but luckily, Williamson has remained strong with the last arc being a definite high and Flash War to be even higher if that is to be believed. Happenings in this comic extend moments from beyond 45 issues, but happenings that people have been waiting since New 52 to occur.

The art looks good, not great, but above average. Characters look great and just by looking at them they all show their emotions very well. The art helps the heartfelt moments in this comic by adding additional weight to them and improving them, just as all great art should do. The final page especially looks amazing with emotion and so much mixed feeling in a very powerful sense. The question of whether or not this book is a buy is simple, if you have this entire run thus far then of course, or at least since Perfect Storm, otherwise do not bother. I will say if you are a big Wally West fan then go ahead and get it. This is an interlude issue (next issue also seems like it is as well). There is not anything wrong with that, especially in trades this benefits strongly. Despite good art and some moments that have been years in the making, the first half is not strong enough to give this comic a 4/5; thus this is a 3.

Score: 3/5

The Flash #45
DC Comics