TALES FROM THE DARK MULTIVERSE: FLASHPOINT #1 hits comic book stores on Tuesday, December 8th, turning one of the DC Comic’s most pivotal stories on its head. Originally, Barry Allen traveled back in time during Flashpoint to prevent Eobard Thawne from murdering his mother, losing his powers temporarily in the process. But what would happen if Thawne thwarted the Scarlet Speedster’s plans? That is what this issue explores in an equally engaging story.
Story
Unlike the Flashpoint event of the main multiverse, this dark version provides readers with a narrator in Tempus Fuginaut. Drawing similarities to Allen, the god-like being describes his purpose as being opposite that of Thawne. Fuginaut and Allen cross the halls of time in service of hope; the yellow-garbed villain serves nothing but despair.
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This narrative choice sets the tone by providing context while dipping out just in time for Thawne to shine. He’s the “star,” but a number of moving pieces make their mark in this issue as well.
Longtime fans of Flashpoint will soon find Allen and Thomas Wayne’s Batman of this Earth in a familiar setting, waiting for the catalytic bolt of lightning to bring back the hero’s powers. But the foretelling of Fuginaut and Thawne’s sudden appearance usher in the breaking point of this alternate story.
The beauty of this issue lies in its ability to deviate while maintaining the tone of the original. Bryan Hitch’s writing speaks to readers as if they’re a part of the narrative themselves. His pacing is also particularly effective when unveiling new dark dimensions in this alternate world.
Artwork
Pencils and Inks
Hitch’s penciling, along with Andrew Currie and Scott Hanna’s ink work, craft stunning images in much the same style as those from the original Flashpoint story. The character of Thawne seems to bristle with so much energy, one might believe he’s ready to jump off of the page.
Colors
Alex Sinclair and Jeremiah Skipper’s coloring does a great job of emphasizing Thawne’s otherworldly powers. Each bolt of red lightning emanating from him contrasts with the more mundane background shades.
Letters
Rob Leigh’s lettering helps distinguish between each form of dialogue—whether it be Fuginaut’s narration, Thawne’s gloating, or Wayne’s contemplating. The differences in color and font style help readers focus on who’s speaking.
Conclusion
This issue’s thrilling, alternate Flashpoint will be remembered as a work of genius. TALES FROM THE DARK MULTIVERSE: FLASHPOINT #1 commemorates one of DC’s fan favorite stories with an engaging an twist.
Do you like Thawne-focused stories like this? Let us know in the comments below!
