The Flash #34: Look to the Future

The Flash #34 hits the ground running, with Wally continuing to learn more about his new “Flash of Insight” powers, which allow him to catch brief glimpses of the future. While many readers may assume this ability is simply a consequence of the ending of DC K.O., the exploration and investigation presented here reveal that there is much more at play. Teaming up with his boss, Mr. Terrific, Wally embarks on a scientific journey to uncover exactly what this new power means and what it has in store for him.

One of the most exciting aspects of this new Flash run is the genuine sincerity with which the creative team explores new facets of the character. There will always be stories to tell when a major new ability is introduced to a character who has existed longer than most of his readers have been alive. However, this never feels like the sort of gimmick or cash grab that often accompanies these kinds of storytelling devices. Instead, as this issue demonstrates, a great deal of depth and history have been woven into the concept. The power is tied directly to the Speed Force itself while also incorporating scientific principles that lend it an air of plausibility. The result is an endlessly engaging read that elevates what could have easily been a simple, hand-waving explanation for Wally’s new abilities.

The foundation of this power ultimately revolves around probability, with Mr. Terrific comparing it to a meteorologist’s ability to predict the weather. These visions are revealed to be the result of the Speed Force making assumptions about the future based on information Wally absorbs during his adventures. This idea is explored through a brilliantly crafted sequence in which Wally must convince Gorilla Grodd not to attack humanity after receiving a vision showing exactly that outcome. Because his abilities operate on probability, Wally researches gorilla psychology in an effort to determine the best course of action and prevent the attack from occurring.

This concept is brought to life through an excellent two-page spread in which artist Gavin Guidry creates a quasi choose-your-own-adventure sequence, illustrating how Wally’s various choices can lead to dramatically different outcomes. It is an incredibly fun segment to read and stands as one of the most imaginative storytelling devices seen in a DC comic in recent memory.

As the issue draws to a close, the central question becomes what these powers will mean for Wally moving forward. By the end of the story, he learns that his ability to predict the future is only as reliable as the information available to him and the logical conclusions that can be drawn from it. If he is not looking in the right place or focusing on the right details, unintended consequences can occur, including attacks from villains he never anticipated. This limitation is a clever way to keep the power interesting and useful without allowing it to become overbearing or story-breaking.

Regardless of where this concept ultimately leads, how long the power remains part of Wally’s arsenal, or whether it becomes a permanent fixture of the character, there is no denying that it has already produced one of the most creative and compelling Flash issues in recent memory.