The “Absolute Flash” storyline introduces a fresh and compelling version of Wally West, the beloved speedster from DC Comics. Unlike his traditional depiction, this take on Wally is younger, isolated, and struggling with personal demons. For fans who were disheartened when Barry Allen became the primary Flash in the New 52, this comic offers a return to a Wally-centric narrative. Let’s explore the depth and nuances of this bold new interpretation of the Scarlet Speedster.
Wally West: A Different Kind of Flash
One of the most intriguing aspects of “Absolute Flash” is the stark contrast between this version of Wally West and the one fans have come to know. At just 15 years old, he already possesses his speedster abilities but lacks the knowledge to harness or control them. Unlike the classic Wally, who often sought validation and worked tirelessly to prove himself as a worthy successor to Barry, this iteration of Wally is a loner. He is detached from others, burdened by anxiety, and overwhelmed by the weight of his own existence.
The comic opens with Wally expressing feelings of isolation and despair. He struggles with racing thoughts, obsessive overthinking, and the absence of a guiding force in his life. His hyper-independence, though seemingly a strength, is actually a defense mechanism against his deep-seated anxiety. By incorporating these real-world mental health struggles, “Absolute Flash” makes Wally more relatable to modern readers who experience similar issues.
A New Relationship with Barry Allen
One of the biggest departures from the traditional Flash lore is Wally’s relationship with Barry Allen. In the main DC universe, Barry is both his mentor and his uncle-in-law, playing a crucial role in Wally’s journey as a hero. However, in “Absolute Flash,” their connection is different. Barry is simply a scientist working at Fort Fox, a military base, and is more of a friend than a family figure to Wally.
Barry’s role in Wally’s life is that of a supportive and encouraging mentor, someone who sees potential in the young speedster. When Barry takes Wally into a restricted facility to show him “Project Olympus,” it becomes clear that the military is working on groundbreaking experiments at the intersection of physics and biology. Barry’s excitement is palpable, but he also acknowledges the potential dangers involved.
The Role of Project Olympus
Project Olympus is one of the most intriguing elements of “Absolute Flash.” While details are scarce, it is heavily implied that it is connected to the origins of Wally’s powers. Barry suggests that the military’s research is focused on weapons development, but he also sees limitless possibilities beyond just combat applications. This hints at a deeper, possibly sinister subplot that will unfold as the story progresses.
The name “Project Olympus” might also be a nod to DC Comics’ rich mythology. Some fans speculate it could reference the Roman god Mercury (the counterpart of the Greek god Hermes), tying into the way Jay Garrick received his powers in the Earth 2 storyline. The connection to classical mythology adds a layer of intrigue, hinting at possible divine or supernatural elements influencing the story.
A Strained Father-Son Dynamic
Another key aspect of “Absolute Flash” is Wally’s strained relationship with his father, Rudy. Unlike the typical absent or abusive father trope, Rudy is portrayed as a strict but genuinely concerned parent. As a high-ranking military officer, he adheres to rigid discipline, which puts him at odds with his rebellious teenage son. Their interactions are filled with tension, but it is clear that Rudy’s actions stem from a place of care rather than cruelty.
Rudy’s objections to Wally working with Barry stem from his knowledge of Project Olympus’s dangers. He wants to protect his son, but Wally perceives his father’s actions as controlling and dismissive. This conflict reaches a boiling point when Wally lashes out, accusing his father of being uninterested in him and even suggesting that if his mother were still alive, they would have left Rudy behind. This moment encapsulates the raw, emotional turmoil of adolescence, exacerbated by Wally’s deeper struggles with anxiety and loneliness.
The Tragic Fate of Barry Allen
The turning point of the story occurs when Wally sneaks back into Fort Fox and finds Barry in the middle of an experiment gone wrong. Barry frantically yells for Wally to run, emphasizing the imminent danger. Moments later, Barry is seemingly dead, and Wally is left grappling with the shocking reality that he may have been responsible for his mentor’s demise.
This development drastically alters Wally’s trajectory. His feelings of isolation and self-doubt are now compounded by immense guilt. The question of how and why Barry died remains a mystery, and unraveling this enigma will likely be a driving force in the story moving forward.
The Rise of the Rogues
As if Wally’s struggles weren’t enough, he soon finds himself pursued by the “Absolute” universe’s version of the Rogues. This iteration of the Flash’s classic villains, including Captain Cold and Boomerang, has been modernized to fit the alternate reality of “Absolute Flash.” These foes are not just petty criminals; they are serious threats hunting Wally down for reasons yet to be fully revealed.
Wally’s lack of control over his powers makes the chase all the more intense. His abilities flicker unpredictably, making escape uncertain. His mantra, “Just breathe and keep going,” highlights his desperation as he fights to survive against overwhelming odds.
The Mystery of Blue Trinity
The final pages of the first issue introduce an even bigger mystery: the mention of “Blue Trinity.” In DC Comics lore, Blue Trinity and Red Trinity were Soviet speedster teams. While Blue Trinity was initially an adversary of the Flash, Red Trinity was designed to assist him. The reference to Blue Trinity in “Absolute Flash” suggests a deeper conspiracy at play, possibly tying back to Project Olympus and the military’s true intentions.
A mysterious figure accesses Project Olympus’s archives using the password “Blue Trinity,” triggering a database retrieval of Barry’s experiments. As the information is downloaded, the individual chillingly states, “Mirror, mirror on the wall, time to make this whole world fall.” This cryptic line strongly hints at Mirror Master’s involvement, setting up a new layer of conflict for Wally to face.
What’s Next for “Absolute Flash”?
While the first issue of “Absolute Flash” serves primarily as an introduction, it lays the groundwork for an exciting and complex story. Jeff Lemire’s storytelling ensures that even with an alternate take on Wally West, the heart of the character remains intact. The blend of personal struggles, high-stakes action, and deep-cut DC references makes this a series worth following.
Wally’s journey from an anxious, lonely teenager to a fully realized hero is just beginning. With Barry gone, the Rogues on his tail, and a larger conspiracy unfolding, “Absolute Flash” promises to be a thrilling ride. Fans of Wally West, and The Flash mythos as a whole, will find much to appreciate in this fresh take on the Scarlet Speedster.
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