Written by Brian Augustyn & Mark Waid
Art by Sergio Cariello; Brian Garvey; Gasper Salladino; & Tom McCraw
Cover Art by Mike Wieringo & José Marzan Jr.
SUMMARY:
Entitled “Race Against Time – Aftermath: Cold, Cold Heart,” it was published by DC Comics for October 1996. In present-day Keystone City, Wally West’s Flash and his STAR Labs allies can’t yet figure out to thaw a frozen Linda Park, who is still somehow alive in a form of suspended animation. Wally blames a time-traveling and guilt-ridden John Fox (a 27th Century fan-turned-Flash) for Linda’s icy predicament.
When Terminator-like sentries from the 27th Century come to execute a fugitive Fox, Wally is his romantic rival’s best hope. A cross-country hot pursuit leads to a climatic desert showdown. Including a brief appearance by Iris West Allen, Linda’s cliffhanger is settled prior to a Final Night crossover coming up next issue.
REVIEW:
In terms of storytelling, co-writers Brian Augustyn & Mark Waid solidly balance Wally’s rage at Fox with plenty of Flash action, along with making Fox a relatable guest star. Even if their plotting is predictable, Augustyn & Waid at least make Flash # 118 a good and easy read. They also receive excellent visual support from the art squad, including a terrific cover image. Even if Flash # 118 isn’t a classic, it’s still a well-played (and an appreciably uncomplicated) Wally West adventure.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
A single-page “Watch This Space” column hypes The Final Night. There’s also a two-page “Speed Reading” letters-and-answers column.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars
