What do you think?
Rate this book
The Flash (2011) #1-4
The Flash by Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato Omnibus
A mysterious and powerful Speed-Force killer has left a trail of bodies in his wake and only Barry has the power to stop him. But when the killer stays one step ahead of him, Barry finds himself face-to-face with the Teen Titans and Kid Flash for the first time. All this will lead to a confrontation with the Flash's most deadly foe, the Reverse Flash!
Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato's unforgettable era of the Flash is finally collected into one Deluxe size omnibus!
Collecting: The Flash 1-25
Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato's unforgettable era of the Flash is finally collected into one Deluxe size omnibus!
Collecting: The Flash 1-25
709 pages, Hardcover
First published November 22, 2016
9 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
About the author
Francis Manapul
545 books231 followersFrancis Manapul is a comic book artist living in Toronto, Canada currently working for DC comics. His list of credits include the forthcoming Adventure Comics, and Superman Batman. In the past he's worked on titles like Legion of Super-Heroes, Iron and the Maiden, Necromancer, Sept Guerrieres, Tomb Raider, Darkness, G.I Joe and of course Witchblade.
Photo by Luigi Novi.
Photo by Luigi Novi.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 25, 2019
Starts a little slow and uneven but is good superhero fun when it gets going. And the artwork is amazing
June 23, 2023
If you've just watched The Flash, like I have, and found yourself interested in reading his comics, I can say that this is a great omnibus to pick up! You can probably find it at a great price, and it's just a really solid story.
Since this was a New 52 run, you've got all the Barry Allen essentials here, presented for the convince of the newcomer. You've got Barry and his backstory, his love triangle with Iris West and Patty Spivot, and his career as a Central City forensic scientist. You've also got general Flash essentials, like the Rogues, Gorilla Grodd, Speed Force shenanigans, and a take on the Reverse Flash.
Unlike a lot of the stuff that came out in The New 52, though, this one isn't pointlessly dark and gritty. It's got emotional stakes and asks the question of whether Barry is really making the best use of his connection to the Speed Force, but there's more of an adventure vibe to it. You can't really tell a dark and serious story that also features an invading army of gorillas, but The Flash has the perfect tone to keep you engaged through its emotional highs and lows.
But what really elevates this run is the gorgeous artwork. I mean, the scripts are good and all, but the panels and splash pages here are just some of the most fun and dynamic things that I've seen in comics. Trying to figure out how Francis Manapul writes "DC Comics Proudly Presents The Flash in [whatever]" was really fun in each issue!
At times, you'll wonder how someone can draw like this on a monthly comic, and the answer to that is Manapul doesn't draw every single issue of this run, and it's pretty noticeable when the fill-ins turn up. Not because they're bad, but because Manapul might be one of the best artists The Flash has ever had.
As for the story itself, it's about 25 issues long and it tells a nice and satisfying tale. There are no earth shattering stakes here, but this isn't a boring book, either. And as Buccellato and Manapul leave the book, they tie up their storylines well enough that you can stop here without picking up Robert Venditti's (less liked) run.
Flash fans might not like what they did with Reverse Flash, but this was a long time ago. There's also an issue that introduces Barry to the N52 version of Kid Flash, but it literally doesn't add up to anything. These are minor problems, though, especially for the target audience.
What might bother everyone a bit more is that, once the main story is over, you get a pair of tie-ins to Forever Evil and a tie-in to Zero Year (a Batman storyline?). These might be important to collectors, but they're a bit distracting without their original context. As for the Zero Year tie-in particular, that issue has so many weird implications for Barry and Iris' backstory that I'm assuming it was retconned down the line. Since they're at the end of the omni, though, they don't detract from the main story at all.
Is this the best Flash run ever? People swear by Mark Waid and Geoff Johns' runs, and Johns took a crack at Barry, too (*cough*cough*Flashpoint*cough*), and I haven't read those. This is a very good run though, and that can be good enough. Maybe don't pay cover for this one, but definitely snag it at a discount.
Since this was a New 52 run, you've got all the Barry Allen essentials here, presented for the convince of the newcomer. You've got Barry and his backstory, his love triangle with Iris West and Patty Spivot, and his career as a Central City forensic scientist. You've also got general Flash essentials, like the Rogues, Gorilla Grodd, Speed Force shenanigans, and a take on the Reverse Flash.
Unlike a lot of the stuff that came out in The New 52, though, this one isn't pointlessly dark and gritty. It's got emotional stakes and asks the question of whether Barry is really making the best use of his connection to the Speed Force, but there's more of an adventure vibe to it. You can't really tell a dark and serious story that also features an invading army of gorillas, but The Flash has the perfect tone to keep you engaged through its emotional highs and lows.
But what really elevates this run is the gorgeous artwork. I mean, the scripts are good and all, but the panels and splash pages here are just some of the most fun and dynamic things that I've seen in comics. Trying to figure out how Francis Manapul writes "DC Comics Proudly Presents The Flash in [whatever]" was really fun in each issue!
At times, you'll wonder how someone can draw like this on a monthly comic, and the answer to that is Manapul doesn't draw every single issue of this run, and it's pretty noticeable when the fill-ins turn up. Not because they're bad, but because Manapul might be one of the best artists The Flash has ever had.
As for the story itself, it's about 25 issues long and it tells a nice and satisfying tale. There are no earth shattering stakes here, but this isn't a boring book, either. And as Buccellato and Manapul leave the book, they tie up their storylines well enough that you can stop here without picking up Robert Venditti's (less liked) run.
Flash fans might not like what they did with Reverse Flash, but this was a long time ago. There's also an issue that introduces Barry to the N52 version of Kid Flash, but it literally doesn't add up to anything. These are minor problems, though, especially for the target audience.
What might bother everyone a bit more is that, once the main story is over, you get a pair of tie-ins to Forever Evil and a tie-in to Zero Year (a Batman storyline?). These might be important to collectors, but they're a bit distracting without their original context. As for the Zero Year tie-in particular, that issue has so many weird implications for Barry and Iris' backstory that I'm assuming it was retconned down the line. Since they're at the end of the omni, though, they don't detract from the main story at all.
Is this the best Flash run ever? People swear by Mark Waid and Geoff Johns' runs, and Johns took a crack at Barry, too (*cough*cough*Flashpoint*cough*), and I haven't read those. This is a very good run though, and that can be good enough. Maybe don't pay cover for this one, but definitely snag it at a discount.
February 18, 2017
The art is often fantastic with brilliant and creative layouts. Because the art is so central in a visual storytelling medium like this it makes a big difference in the quality of the work. I enjoyed my read through on this one.
July 12, 2023
I might be in trouble for saying this: but my re-visit on this New 52 Flash run has been a BLAST. I enjoyed it wayyyy more than I remember. It still feels so refreshing and fun. Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato really used this this run to flex Barry Allen to the fullest: His abilities, his inner struggles, his side cast, the rogues, his love life, the speed force, and SO MUCH MORE ! Parts of the script felt like it had spider man vibes to it which I enjoyed and can help to anybody who is reading Flash for the first time. Even though some things were changed that we as long time Flash fans didn't like, this creative team was able to do their own thing and tell their story with the most ambitious way.
Francis art was INCREDIBLE ! The way he flexed his style is jaw dropping. Each issue, he uses the words "DC COMICS PROUDLY PRESENTS THE FLASH" in the most artistic way possible, its amazing. His art truly matches the tone of the story and Buccellato's colors is dope as well.
The story can get dark and gritty sometimes and it had its purpose. The REVERSE FLASH storyline was PEAK of this run. It was so brutal and scary. And I love when the writers explain why a villain do what they did. There was so many life lessons in this run that I loved so much and can relate to as well. I'm sorry this run was fun. Flash is one of my favorite characters of all time, and I'm this creative team gave him a chance to shine. I'm glad some stuff got retconned later on cause New 52 changed too many things and I'm glad the Rebirth era brought DC back to its roots. I would recommend this run to any new Flash fan.
Francis art was INCREDIBLE ! The way he flexed his style is jaw dropping. Each issue, he uses the words "DC COMICS PROUDLY PRESENTS THE FLASH" in the most artistic way possible, its amazing. His art truly matches the tone of the story and Buccellato's colors is dope as well.
The story can get dark and gritty sometimes and it had its purpose. The REVERSE FLASH storyline was PEAK of this run. It was so brutal and scary. And I love when the writers explain why a villain do what they did. There was so many life lessons in this run that I loved so much and can relate to as well. I'm sorry this run was fun. Flash is one of my favorite characters of all time, and I'm this creative team gave him a chance to shine. I'm glad some stuff got retconned later on cause New 52 changed too many things and I'm glad the Rebirth era brought DC back to its roots. I would recommend this run to any new Flash fan.
January 26, 2019
The art is simply beautiful and the writing is generally good too. The only thing that lets this book down are the last few issues as they are all the bane of any good comic series - damn tie-in issues.
September 15, 2017
Great art. The writing didn't work for me though.
September 3, 2019
Collecting the first 4 volumes of Flash's New 52 series, in this he takes on The Rogues, Gorilla Grodd and Reverse Flash among others.
My main problem with this is the first arc is absolutely fantastic, stunning art and a very personal story for Barry. The villain feels like a genuine threat as well as some interesting speed force stuff. The rest of it can't really hold a candle to it, it's very good but it doesn't leave me in awe. Apart from that I have 2 small gripes, the love interest and Reverse Flash. Both suffer because you don't spend much time getting to know them, Iris always pops up takes Barry's attention with it. Reverse Flash as has the problem of not being the first, before this we've had Professor Zoom and Zoom. Both impacted their Flash's life greatly, while this one is just kind of there.
As for the good, the art is gorgeous. Unfortunately it's not the same throughout but with that much detail, I imagine it'd be hard to do a monthly schedule. The one shots are all great, each with their own unique flavour. If I had to choose one though it would have to Zero Year, it's full of great moments.
My main problem with this is the first arc is absolutely fantastic, stunning art and a very personal story for Barry. The villain feels like a genuine threat as well as some interesting speed force stuff. The rest of it can't really hold a candle to it, it's very good but it doesn't leave me in awe. Apart from that I have 2 small gripes, the love interest and Reverse Flash. Both suffer because you don't spend much time getting to know them, Iris always pops up takes Barry's attention with it. Reverse Flash as has the problem of not being the first, before this we've had Professor Zoom and Zoom. Both impacted their Flash's life greatly, while this one is just kind of there.
As for the good, the art is gorgeous. Unfortunately it's not the same throughout but with that much detail, I imagine it'd be hard to do a monthly schedule. The one shots are all great, each with their own unique flavour. If I had to choose one though it would have to Zero Year, it's full of great moments.
September 12, 2017
Fun book ! Did not know alot of The Flash besides the tv series, but got to borrow this from a friend. The first thing that is pretry notacable is that The Flash doesnt have the A class villains that Batman or Spider-Man has, and thats a shame, but it also does not matter alot. The stories are very light, and that is perfectly fine by me. Not everything has to be as layered as the godfather or anything. Sometimes it gets a little to simple, but the art and fun of the story is good enough. three stars from me.
October 13, 2019
Enjoyed this far moore than i thought i would. The story and writing is very simple and has no layers, but sometimes i like that, just being able to read a fun story without having to think. The art in this book is AMAZING. It has to be amongst the best art i've ever seen in a comic book. The story is a 4/5 for me but the art is 5/5 (if i could give higher for the art, i would). Because the incredible art of this book, i have to rate it 5/5. I sometimes pick this up just to look at the stunning artwork.
July 22, 2021
Not great, not bad either. This is the first time I have read Flash in Omnibus format. There are some really good story arcs combined with a couple of meh ones. But one thing is sure, Francis Manapuls art is just gorgeous to look at.
July 9, 2023
The art in this book elevates it to one of the greatest omnibuses DC has ever published. Solid stories that may deter longtime fans due to the New 52, but if you treat this as an Elseworld or a unique interpretation of the Scarlet Speedster, you will find a LOT to enjoy here.
August 18, 2024
A decent entry for the New 52 run of the Flash. It is a safe landing for the return of Barry Allen. Which, while it isn't particularly bad or bland, it isn't groundbreaking or fast-paced either. A sluggish but not bad read for the scarlet speedster.
December 17, 2017
A great place to start if you are new to the series :)
March 27, 2018
That Was a Great Run on The Flash
Most of th Stories Was Good And Solid and Have Continuity in it And the Art Was Exploding in the Pages
Most of th Stories Was Good And Solid and Have Continuity in it And the Art Was Exploding in the Pages
December 31, 2018
Perfect art and fine story. It had it ups and downs but overall it was a really enjoyable tale!
March 6, 2019
1-8 (Vol. 1: Move Forward) ☆☆☆☆
9-12, 0, Annual 1 (Vol. 2: Rogues Revolution) ☆☆☆☆
13-19 (Vol. 3: Gorilla Warfare) ☆☆☆
20-25, 23.2 (Vol. 4: Reverse) ☆☆☆☆
23.1 ☆☆☆
23.3 ☆☆
Annual 2 ☆☆
9-12, 0, Annual 1 (Vol. 2: Rogues Revolution) ☆☆☆☆
13-19 (Vol. 3: Gorilla Warfare) ☆☆☆
20-25, 23.2 (Vol. 4: Reverse) ☆☆☆☆
23.1 ☆☆☆
23.3 ☆☆
Annual 2 ☆☆
August 5, 2019
As you might expect. Francis Manapul is a fantastic artist.
March 31, 2021
5 star art, 2 star plot and dialogue
January 1, 2022
Loved the first arc or two. Started to drag halfway through. The last few issues are completely skippable once Manapul stops writing.
March 26, 2024
The first half is incredibly inconsistent but it picks up a lot in the second half. Odd to have all the one shots after the main story ends too and not intertwined.
did-not-finish
April 7, 2025Volume 1- 3 stars, 2017
Volume 2- 3 stars, 2022
I don't care to continue anymore.
Volume 2- 3 stars, 2022
I don't care to continue anymore.
December 16, 2024
First of all I would like to point out that this collection includes issues 1-25, as stated on amazon and other retailer’s websites. But also issues 23.1, 23.2 and 23.3, plus the first two annual issues of the series. This was a happy surprise, but it’s a real shame that they decided to not include issues 26-29 from volume 5 of the series, as they where written by Brian Buccellato.
I know of Barry Allen's Flash from the ongoing T.V show and various cartoons, but this was my first time reading one of his comics. This does act as a good jumping on point, however it did take a while until I knew everything that I needed to know about this version of the character, but by the end the important details were clear.
The art in this is for the most part, is drawn by writer Francis Manapul and coloured by co writer Brian Buccellato. I really like how they made it look fun but yet serious when required. And I missed it in the issues drawn by different Artists. Although I did enjoy their art too.
It was interesting to see to how this version of the Flash differed from the show, such as how Barry's foster dad, Joe is absent from the story. However there is a character called Darryl who serves a similar role. I also liked that they created a new version of Reverse Flash with a different identity, (try to avoid finding out who it is before hand, as I unfortunately didn’t,) and that they invented a new group of villains called "Mob Rule". I did find there starfish inspired ability involving severed limbs to be interesting, but at the same time disgusting and disturbing. Although not as much as the scene where Gorilla Grodd digests his father's brain to absorb his knowledge after defeating him In battle. I'm really not sure why they felt the need to do this to the character, they do something to him later on which I found much cooler, during the “Gorilla Warfare,” storyline that I thought was brilliant.
Two other problems that I had where the sometimes basic explanations for certain plots points, and the fact some of the final issues link into the Forever Evil event (,from what I can tell). I haven't read it so I ended up a bit confused. Those issues are also included in the Forever Evil: Rogues Rebellion tie-in so it may be possible to read that instead of the main event and be caught up with everything you would need to know, but I haven't read it yet so I can't comment.
I would also like to note that the omnibus comes with a few variant covers and artists sketches that are collected at the back.
Contents
Issues 1-25
Issues 23.1, 23.2. 23.3
Annual issue 1 and 2
Extras
I know of Barry Allen's Flash from the ongoing T.V show and various cartoons, but this was my first time reading one of his comics. This does act as a good jumping on point, however it did take a while until I knew everything that I needed to know about this version of the character, but by the end the important details were clear.
The art in this is for the most part, is drawn by writer Francis Manapul and coloured by co writer Brian Buccellato. I really like how they made it look fun but yet serious when required. And I missed it in the issues drawn by different Artists. Although I did enjoy their art too.
It was interesting to see to how this version of the Flash differed from the show, such as how Barry's foster dad, Joe is absent from the story. However there is a character called Darryl who serves a similar role. I also liked that they created a new version of Reverse Flash with a different identity, (try to avoid finding out who it is before hand, as I unfortunately didn’t,) and that they invented a new group of villains called "Mob Rule". I did find there starfish inspired ability involving severed limbs to be interesting, but at the same time disgusting and disturbing. Although not as much as the scene where Gorilla Grodd digests his father's brain to absorb his knowledge after defeating him In battle. I'm really not sure why they felt the need to do this to the character, they do something to him later on which I found much cooler, during the “Gorilla Warfare,” storyline that I thought was brilliant.
Two other problems that I had where the sometimes basic explanations for certain plots points, and the fact some of the final issues link into the Forever Evil event (,from what I can tell). I haven't read it so I ended up a bit confused. Those issues are also included in the Forever Evil: Rogues Rebellion tie-in so it may be possible to read that instead of the main event and be caught up with everything you would need to know, but I haven't read it yet so I can't comment.
I would also like to note that the omnibus comes with a few variant covers and artists sketches that are collected at the back.
Contents
Issues 1-25
Issues 23.1, 23.2. 23.3
Annual issue 1 and 2
Extras
February 6, 2017
Even though Manapul's art is a fine treat to the eye, the story lacks. I didn't care for any of the characters in it and Flash didn't convince me that he truly cared for any of his close ones either. Also there are no big plot twists and surprises, making it at its most part blunt and boring.
November 5, 2018
Only decided to read because I watched season 1 of the TV show and really liked it. My honest opinion? Watch the show, it's way better in all fronts, fightings, plot, characters, twists. It's really good. At least season 1 is, the other's I won't vouch for. This was aight, but it jumped from story to story at breaknecking space and was a bit rushed to me tbh. They also didn't give Barry the emotional depth that the TV show did with his dad and adoptive father plot. Season 1 of the series is really great, and I'd recommend it over this. Gave it 3 stars cause the art is pretty, the story ain't super bad just nothing surprising, at least not surprising like what the tv show did. Took me forever to finish this because tbh I lost interest. You win some, you lose others.
November 26, 2016
Can't say enough good things about this run. One of the best from the new 52, couldn't put this book down. The art is gorgeous with page layouts that are fitting for a fast paced character like the flash. The inking an colors really pop and feel like a comic.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews