The Flash V4: New 52 (2011)

In September 2011, The New 52 rebooted DC’s continuity. In this new timeline, DC Comics relaunched The Flash with issue #1, with writing and art handled by Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato. As with all of the titles associated with the DC relaunch, Barry Allen appears to be about five years younger than the previous incarnation of the character. Superheroes at large have appeared only in the past five years, and are viewed with at best, suspicion, and at worst, outright hostility. In this new continuity, Barry’s marriage to Iris West never took place, and he is instead in a relationship with longtime co-worker Patty Spivot. In this new series, the Flash draws deeper into the Speed Force, enhancing his mental abilities while still trying to get a full grasp on his powers, which he doesn’t yet exert total control over.

As revealed in issue #0 of this series, Barry Allen’s father was placed in prison for the murder of his mother. While the evidence seems to indicate his father’s guilt, Barry makes proving his father’s innocence a priority. The murder occurred shortly after Barry returned victorious from a school spelling bee, and Barry placed the trophy he won on his mother’s grave in her memory. Barry is also part of the main cast of the relaunched Justice League series, making his debut in the series’ second issue.

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