[Editor’s Note: This review may contain spoilers.]
Writer: Joshua Williamson
Artists: Scott McDaniel, Mick Gray
Reviewed By: Derek McNeil
Summary
“A Cold Day in Hell” part two! The new crime lord of Central City has been revealed…and it’s worse than The Flash ever imagined! Betrayed by a former friend and trapped in Iron Heights prison with no escape in sight—will The Flash be too late to save his city from disaster?
Positives
Barry and Kristen continue their investigations into what’s going on at Iron Heights Prison. The readers know that the Rogues, headed by Captain Cold are controlling from inside the prison, but Barry is discovering that Warden Wolfe is also up to suspicious activities, abusing prisoners – the Trickster in particular. Wolf warns them to leave off their investigation, but Barry’s suspicions are now aroused.
I also find it fascinating trying to figure out whose side August Heart, a.k.a. Godspeed is ultimately on. He tells Barry to trust him, yet he betrays the Flash to the Rogues. However, he is careful not to reveal Barry’s secret identity to the Rogues. Could it be that his betrayal is part of a scheme to help Barry?
And next issue hints that we may see a fight of a different kind between the Flash and Captain Cold. With the Flash trapped in a room that negates his speed powers, Cold challenges him to a regular fist fight. Can Barry manage to win such a fight. Has he managed to pick up any basic fighting skills from his fellow Justice Leaguers Batman and Wonder Woman, or has he relied on his speed to get him through battles? The next issue should give us the answer to this question.
Negatives
Yet another issue with no appearance of Iris nor any mention of where their relationship stands. The Metal crossover issue gave us a quick reconciliation that begs for a follow-up meeting between Barry and Iris to finally sort out their feelings. But the series just jumps from one crisis to another without giving us this reconciliation. This subplot needs some resolution soon and not be dragged out any longer than it has been.
Verdict
The Flash was one of the cornerstones of DC’s Rebirth era, and seems to be one of their strongest titles as the DCU moves beyond Rebirth. Hopefully we will see Barry back with Iris to fully restore the title to its classic greatness.
