We’re at the penultimate issue of this miniseries, and once again, writer Jeremy Adams and artist Diego Olortegui bring the action to this new Flash family. I’m looking forward to the next issue, but I also dread this miniseries ending. With Geoff Johns leaving for his and others’ creator-owned Ghost Machine, I believe Jeremy Adams would be a perfect writer to capture the character and wonder of the Justice Society. Having Diego Olortegui continue would be perfect as he has shown he can illustrate characters from the Golden to the Modern Age in such a timeless manner. In this issue, we see just how far Doctor Elemental is willing to go and how bold Judy Garrick can be. But who is Joel Ciclone?
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The issue opens immediately with shots fired from Doctor Elemental’s robotic assassin, as seen in our preview. Diego Olortegui and colorist Luis Guerrero perfectly capture the moment’s intensity with their opening splash page; there is so much to take in as the bullets rain disaster everywhere. Make sure to appreciate the reflections on Jay’s helmet, as you’ll get a mirror image of what is happening. Sadly, it does not look good for S.T.A.R. Labs founder Garrison Slate. We can see him ripped apart from the shots fired, exhibiting Doctor Elemental’s lust for power and the fact that anyone in his way is collateral damage. While this is a quick mini-series, Doctor Elemental is shaping to be quite the villain for Jay and the JSA rogues gallery.
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From that graphic opening, we experience Judy Garrick witnessing death as Slate passes; it is a tender moment in Judy’s career as a hero. Judy goes through a fair amount of moments in this issue, which showcases her brave and bold attitude. Jeremy Adams writes the Garricks in such a manner that you understand why there is a need for Jay, even with Barry and Wally being around. The Garricks don’t turn tail; instead, they face their problems, which is excellent as they hunt for Doctor Elemental. As the issue continues, there is a moment where the heroes go to face the villains, and Jay asks Judy to sit out the battle. Judy’s reaction is perfect as a typical teen – “fiiiinneeee” – but she doesn’t want to be that way as she is waiting. Her boldness encourages her to find and face the danger, expressing her desire to live up to her role as a hero.
One of the best parts of this mini-series is the guest stars! From the title “The Doctor Is In,” I didn’t even second guess who the Doctor could be, Elemental. Yet halfway through the issue, Jeremy Adams surprised me with an appearance by Doctor Mid-nite, a.k.a. Pieter Cross. Adams shows us that their friendship runs deep with their bets and shared international adventures, including the legend of Joel Ciclone, which is a funny way for Pieter to poke at Jay. Seeing who Adams and Olortegui will bring in has been fun throughout this miniseries. Their ability to have these guest stars fit in seamlessly makes a powerful argument that Adams and Olortegui would be perfect as the next creative team on Justice Society of America. It is such an excellent issue that welcomes another hero to the adventure while showing the growth and bravery of a hero starting against a deadly terror. It’s going to be bittersweet waiting for that conclusion.
Jay Garrick: The Flash #5 is another great installment showcasing Jay’s newfound fatherhood as he fights to save his daughter from the evil that helped him get his speed. This miniseries has been a wonderful tour of the DCU with its guest stars while seamlessly adding continuity without tripping itself up. It is such an exciting issue that leaves a bittersweet feeling as we approach the conclusion.
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