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Wildstorm: Michael Cray #3
Publisher: DC Comics
Writer: Bryan Hill w/ Warren Ellis
Artist: N. Steven Harris
Colorist: Dearbhla Kelly
Cover: Denys Cowan, Bill Sienkiewicz, & Steve Buccellato

Bryan Hill just made Barry Allen one of the most dangerous men in the Wildstorm Universe and a foe worthy of Michael Cray’s attention. Not only that but Hill throws in several practical twists that maintain Allen’s speed abilities. The story continues to be layered in deception and action which is paced out well as the ebb and flow of tension builds. I’ll also add that Hill knocks it out of the park with a moment between Cray and his father that is some of best dialogue in comics this week. The art from N. Steven Harris is just as solid and the redesigned costume for Barry fits perfectly in this world. The opening sequence hits some nice action beats and is just a brutal display of speed and power. However, there is one sequence that even though it moves well due to the silent panels one is slightly jarring as the character looks to be in terror instead of ecstasy. That issue aside, if you haven’t been checking out this series go back and get the previous two issues along with this one and get in on a comic that’s worth your money. 3.5/5

Ragman #3 
Publisher: DC Comics
Writer: Ray Fawkes
Artist: Inaki Miranda
Colorist: Eva De La Cruz
Cover: Guillem March & Rain Beredo

Ragman continues to be pretty fun and with Fawkes delivering these twists and character moments it’s hard to put down. More revelations pertaining to Rory’s new powers are slowly revealed here but it’s the introduction of a new villain whom he has a connection with that takes up most of the issue. It’s an action sequence that doesn’t hold back with Fawkes delivering just enough dialogue to not get in the way of the beat down taking place in the panels. There’s also a visit from one of the Bat Family who lets Ragman know that he’s being watched and it’s a pretty ominous warning. Miranda and De La Cruz’s visuals continue to enhance the story and though things get crazy during the fight scenes you’re not lost in the multitude of tendrils and coming off of everyone. Etrigan’s entrance is also a great looking moment with a nice mix of magic and blood. The only problem I’m finding with the Ragman redesign is that his suit now forms these “ears” that give him the silhouette of either The Dark Knight or the King of Wakanda at times. It’s a little distracting at times and with all of the possibilities his suit offers in regards to visuals I hope this is only temporary. The issue ends with a serious consequence for Rory but meeting Etrigan might be the thing he needs to get a grip on what’s going on. 3/5

Flash #36
Publisher: DC Comics
Writer: Joshua Williamson
Artist: Howard Porter
Colorist: Hi-Fi
Cover: Howard Porter & Hi-Fi

Things get a little dark here as Barry is investigating a murder at Iron Heights. Though the victim kind of sours things for me in the beginning which has to do with a personal issue and not the writing. As the investigation continues Williamson does acclimate anyone who might be checking his series out for the first time and might not know about the connection between Barry and Godspeed. He also gets readers up to speed (no pun intended) on Barry’s current position with the department as well. Since the story also revolves around The Rogues there’s some very smart twists added that helps to keep this feeling new and fun. We do get a bit of Kid Flash to lighten the mood a bit and it’s great when Williamson has these two working together in pure superhero fashion. Porter’s artwork is another highlight and we get to see a great entrance scene for Wally because of it. When not showing off cool superhero scenes, Porter doesn’t slack on the quieter and sometimes intense character driven moments along the way. 3/5

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