The Flash #32: The Enemy of My Enemy…

The Flash #32 picks up with Wally encountering citizens across Central City who are putting themselves in dangerous situations to win prize money as part of a new villain’s twisted game. As he teams up with Linda to devise creative ways to save people, the mystery behind this new antagonist begins to deepen, starting with the unexpected arrival of Captain Cold, who, for once, is acting as an ally to the Flash. Just when it seems things couldn’t get worse, the larger scheme behind these deadly challenges starts to unravel, threatening disaster for the entire city.

One of the most delightful aspects of this issue is everything the new creative team brings to the table. Ryan North injects humor and wit into even the most mundane moments, turning exposition into something genuinely enjoyable. A standout example comes during a sequence in which Wally attempts to have dinner with his family while simultaneously saving people across the city. The result is a humorous yet nuanced twist on a familiar domestic scene, highlighting the charm that defines these characters.

Much of the issue’s tone feels reminiscent of the Justice League Unlimited cartoon, particularly in the dynamic between Flash and Captain Cold. In just a few panels and brief exchanges, their relationship is clearly established. North successfully captures the spirit of the animated series, presenting a hero-villain dynamic that feels distinct from more traditional rivalries and adds a refreshing layer to their interactions.

The issue’s charm would not land nearly as effectively without Gavin Guidry’s excellent artwork. Guidry reinforces the humor through subtle facial expressions, often giving Wally a deadpan stare that underscores the absurdity of the situations he faces. This tone is further enhanced by the detailed backgrounds, which are filled with small but meaningful touches. For instance, during the scene where Flash and Captain Cold confront each other, the crowd in the background reacts in ways that heighten the humor and clarify the chaos of the moment. These easily overlooked details give Central City a strong sense of personality, reinforcing the idea that the setting is as much a character as the heroes themselves.

Running beneath the action is a clear thematic thread about the dangers of internet-driven trends and how quickly they can spiral into life-threatening situations. Importantly, this message never feels heavy-handed or preachy. Instead, it reflects a genuine awareness of the real world, lending the story an authenticity that makes it both relatable and engaging.