REVIEW: Knight Terrors: The Flash #1

The world’s fastest man can’t outrun his darkest fears in Knight Terrors #1: The Flash. What unfolds is a time traveling, forensic detective tale that may be the standout character issue #1 in DC’s entire story arc.

After slowing down because of a “monster in the lighting”, Wally is critically injured at the hands of Grood. This sets Barry Allen on a mission to figure out what exactly happened. But of curse things aren’t that simple, nor is every (or anything for that matter) what is seems. Barry knows things aren’t right but seemingly has no idea he’s trapped in his worst nightmare of watching a loved one on the brink of death.

So, what happens when a man who can travel through time is trapped in a nightmare? He goes back of course to see what Wally saw and to save him from Grood. No spoilers but the consequences of Barry’s time travel start to come into view quickly. But writer Alex Paknadel throws in a twist at the end that turns the whole issue on its head. The entire tale is a trip, sprinkled with small oddities and sinister undertones creating a real thriller of an issue.

The visuals are also incredible. The art and coloring is top notch and there is something cool to look at, or that just looks cool, on every page. There are some great panels showing off Flash’s powers, a brutal fight sequence, and an appearance by a surprise JLA member whose ghoulish appearance is probably the most nightmarish visual in the issue. Artist Daniel Bayliss and colorist Igor Monti capture both the essence of The Flash character and set up a lowkey nightmare tone for the story with their work.

Knight Terrors #1: The Flash is a ride. From beginning to end, it’s difficult to tell which way is up and what will happen from one page to the next. Simply put, it is a must-read if you are following the Knight Terrors storyline. The Flash’s detective skills are oftentimes underrated so getting to see him flex them alongside his superspeed is very cool to see. Can Barry unravel what happened to Wally? And more importantly, realize and solve what’s happening to himself?

Writing – 5 Stars
Art – 4.5 Stars
Coloring – 4 Stars

Overall – 4.5 Stars

Written by; Alex Paknadel
Art by; Daniel Bayliss
Colors by; Igor Monti
Letters by; Simon Bowland
Published by; DC Comics

Author Profile

Christopher R. Ford

Writer, author, and blogger. Published author of three children's books and also writes for the boy Creators For The Culture. Part-time sneaker head, full time nerd.