Absolute Flash issue 11 is published by DC Comics under its Absolute line, with writing credits attributed to Jeff Lemire, art by Nick Robles, colors by Adriano Lucas, and lettering by Tom Napolitano.
Absolute Flash #11 marks a significant turning point for the series, potentially establishing a new status quo for what readers can expect moving forward. While I’ve enjoyed this title despite its ironically slow pace compared to other Absolute books, a slow-burn, big-picture setup is simply how Jeff Lemire prefers to operate—and this issue proves that the patience pays off.
Racing Through The Plot
As you mentioned, the last issue left us reeling with two massive cliffhangers; it definitely woke me up. Let’s dive into the most significant one: Wally West finally crossing the gateway and reuniting with Barry Allen.
Honestly, I loved this beat. The way the gateway was explained—and somehow made even more mysterious—was expertly executed with the introduction of its new name: Still Point. We learn that Barry and several alien scientists are trapped eternally within the Still Point because reality has effectively "killed" them while keeping their souls intact.
For some reason, Wally and Eobard Thawne are immune to this fate. While the environment has warped Eobard’s mind and body into something monstrous, he remains alive. While we’ll likely learn more about Eobard’s specific transformation in future issues, this chapter successfully positions Wally as the hero he’s destined to become—and, hopefully, a founding member of the Absolute Universe’s answer to the Justice League. Although we’ve had hints for a few issues now, seeing Wally finally embrace the mantle of the traditional Flash we know and love was a standout moment.
The Eye of The Storytelling Storm
While the script focuses heavily on the two seismic revelations, Jeff Lemire makes the wise decision to sideline the supporting cast, preventing the drama from being diluted. Many writers would have milked these moments by cutting away to secondary subplots, but dedicating an entire issue to the fallout allows the ramifications to truly resonate with the reader.
The sidelined characters don't feel missed, as the major players remain present enough to maintain the book's momentum. Eleanor Thawne, for instance, is visibly horrified by the monster her grandfather has become, but Lemire is clever enough to hold her full response for a later issue. Her immediate, visceral reaction provides just enough emotional weight to sustain the tension for now.
A Flash of Villainy
I find Eobard Thawne’s reveal and transformation equally horrifying and intriguing. He has clearly lost his mind after his prolonged exile in the Still Point, but a subtle aspect of his return that could be easily overlooked is his repeated mantra: "I saw God."
This is a fascinating thread that suggests he may have been in contact with Darkseid during his time away. It raises the question: is Darkseid the primary reason Eobard’s mind and body have been so thoroughly corrupted? It’s entirely possible that Darkseid has been pulling the strings more than we previously assumed—actively establishing and even inspiring the villains of the Absolute Universe.
The Artwork of the Still Point
The artwork in this issue remains consistent with the high standard established throughout the series, echoing the aesthetic of contemporary Young Adult comics. This isn't a detraction; rather, the style fits the narrative perfectly, playing off Wally West’s age and the vulnerable emotional state he’s navigated since the first issue.
As I've also mentioned in the past, I've found the body horror depicted in this comic really gnarly and fun, with a lot of it easily up there with stuff found in a David Cronenberg movie. Barry Allen being dragged by Wally's speed is a notable moment for me.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, I think Absolute Flash #11 could be the biggest and best yet, with readers finally getting a lot of answers and payoffs to plot points established early on. The issue also suggests that while the future may be very bright for Wally West, it may be much darker for Eleanor Thawne.