Written by Mark Waid.
Art by Craig Brasfield; Andrew Pepoy; Tom McCraw; & Tim Harkins.
Cover Art by Mike Parobeck & Rick Burchett.
SUMMARY:
Entitled “Family Business,” DC Comics released this 64-page Armageddon 2001 crossover in 1991. From the bleak near-future, Waverider searches the DC Universe’s present-day Earth for the masked hero who will become its worst villain in 2001. Now established in Keystone City, Wally West’s Flash enjoys its celebratory Flash Day when troubled secretary Bonnie Blackmon approaches him for help. At that moment, Waverider witnesses Wally’s possible destiny a decade later.
Through Wally and Bonnie’s subsequent investigation, her corrupt tech-industrial boss, Mr. Diogenes and his son, Matthew, ultimately end up behind bars. Yet, the ultra-resourceful Diogenes’ superhuman ability to secretly acquire one’s memories still makes him a deadly threat, even from afar. In the Witness Protection Program, a now-married Wally and Bonnie have quietly relocated for years under assumed names before settling in Flagstaff, Arizona, to raise their young son, David.
Having inherited his father’s raw powers, David lacks the necessary aura protecting him from the catastrophic effects of super-speed. A fluke accident subsequently puts David in critical condition and initiates Diogenes’ wicked vengeance.
After abducting a hospitalized David, Diogenes pits Wally against a gauntlet of aging, second-tier Rogues. Gradually losing his powers, a determined Flash must still race the clock to save his son’s life. While one possible destiny is settled, the effects of Waverider’s unseen presence hints at Bonnie’s fate.
REVIEW:
Though the Armageddon 2001 saga itself is forgettable, this Flash Annual is still a surprisingly good read thirty years later. Before the Linda Park era, Wally West’s old girlfriends were hardly vital components to his still-fledging series. Yet, this one-shot with generic love interest Bonnie Blackmon is somehow an intriguing notion.
Supported by the art squad’s decent visuals, writer Mark Waid packs a compelling plot with a savvy balance between familiar franchise elements and unpredictability. While Annual # 4 is not a must-have, it provides a worthwhile and kid-friendly find in the bargain bin.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
None.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6 Stars
