Synopsis: Worlds collide in “The Flash” when Barry uses his superpowers to travel back in time in order to change the events of the past. But when his attempt to save his family inadvertently alters the future, Barry becomes trapped in a reality in which General Zod has returned, threatening annihilation, and there are no Super Heroes to turn to. That is, unless Barry can coax a very different Batman out of retirement and rescue an imprisoned Kryptonian… albeit not the one he’s looking for. Ultimately, to save the world that he is in and return to the future that he knows, Barry’s only hope is to race for his life. But will making the ultimate sacrifice be enough to reset the universe?
Over the past decade, the conversation surrounding whether or not we can separate the art from the artist has really picked up. Due to social media and people feeling brave enough to speak up, we’ve learned that not only are some of our biggest stars and recognizable names perpetrators of deplorable acts, but some are just outright bad people. Now, these are celebrities and public figures not elected officials or officers of the law, but since they have access to unimaginable wealth and influence, we innately hold them to a higher standard nonetheless. As much as they’d like to be, they’re not a regular person. While all crimes aren’t the same and accusations are not convictions, they indeed are. At least, depending on who you are, it would seem. So naturally, I was on the fence about watching and reviewing this movie due to all controversy surrounding Ezra Miller. People have done hard time or died for way less. But here we are. I think most of us want to support the rest of the cast and crew that are involved, or maybe that’s just the excuse we tell ourselves. Or perhaps you love the character. At the end of the day, I’m here to watch, interpret, dissect, critique, and relay. You do what you want.
“Not every problem has a solution.”
Have you ever seen a superhero put a newborn into a microwave to save its life while also eating a burrito? Well, you’re about to. Directed by Andrés Muschietti, The Flash is an unconventional origin story that quite can’t outrun its shortcomings. Despite a heroic effort by Ezra Miller, the rest of the film just couldn’t keep up. That’s not to say that the film isn’t entertaining, there are flashes of electrifying awesomeness. To emphasize, the unconventional direction for an origin story is fantastic. We are presented with backstory without it being blatant. It’s truly like two blended movies, not just two plots. Not to mention, seeing it with a packed theater full of DC fans is a lot of fun. And it is no doubt one of the better DC films overall. However, it essentially repurposes a previous movie, relies heavily on cameos, and the CGI is confusingly awful in way too many scenes.
It was difficult not to go in with high hopes as we all heard from the really early screening reactions that this could potentially be the greatest superhero film of all time. Unfortunately, the hype is not real. Nevertheless, with a two-and-a-half-hour runtime, there is enough enjoyment, positives, and future potential that make The Flash very entertaining. It may not be able to save the DCEU but it can jumpstart the James Gunn-led DCU.
“Not this time kid. Maybe some other time.”
Where the film really shines, where it harbors the most interesting and compelling aspects of its story, is when it focuses solely on Barry’s heartfelt journey. While comic fans will rejoice because of the Flashpoint similarities, it’s the reason why Barry travels to the past that drives the story. We get to witness how he got his powers, what drives him, and why he is the way he is. Once adversity is too tough to handle, Barry who is now partnered with himself, needs help from the world’s greatest detective. But he looks a little different. Seeing Michael Keaton on screen as Batman again is as much of a joy as you’d imagine. And lucky for us, he doesn’t just pop in to show his face. Furthermore, it wouldn’t be a multiverse movie without a familiar villain along with friendly faces. The ever-dangerous, General Zod is back and it’ll take the help of a Kryptonian to defeat him. While Earth’s imminent destruction is a catastrophe that must be handled in order for the speedster to fix everything, Barry’s true obstacle is himself.
The film is full of jokes and comedic moments, I love the time travel humor. They also throw a few jabs at the box office competition. The title card sequence is amazing and really creative, probably one of my all-time favorites. I know mentioned the cameos in a negative connotation, however, they are definitely crowd-pleasing, even if they look a bit wonky. There are two in particular that are exceptionally cool. There are references and easter eggs that DC fans will enjoy. The action scenes aren’t in abundance and are not particularly special, but some fan-favorite abilities are showcased for the first time on the big screen. Despite the issues that I have with the lengthy film, my biggest beef is the CGI. It looks video game-like at times. Nevertheless, the story has heart, plenty of hilarious awkwardness, the score is glorious, it’s shot well, and Sasha Calle crushed it as Supergirl. There is a post-credits scene, so make sure you stay and gather your thoughts. I have incredibly mixed emotions about The Flash, but ultimately, it’s just okay. Its rewatchability is low.
Pacing & Pop
For a film that’s about a metahuman that is so fast that they can time travel, it’s paced rather methodically. Understandably, it’s in the wheelhouse of what you want when the multiverse and its explanation are going to be present in a huge way. However, when we are served up a tasty uptempo catastrophic action sequence right out of the gate, you can’t help but expect a little more of that throughout. What popped for me was the presence of Supergirl. As soon as Sasha Calle appeared the tone changed. Her delivery, intensity, and motivation made you want to see more of her.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: Ezra Miller, Sasha Calle, Michael Shannon, Ron Livingston, Maribel Verdú, Kiersey Clemons, Antje Traue, and Michael Keaton
Ezra Miller definitely settled into their role as The Flash and finally is able to fully encapsulate Barry to the fullest. Also, playing two different versions of the same person, side by side, is no easy feat. Moreover, the awkwardness and emotional range are impressive. Miller made Barry Allen a complete person. Most of the screen time belongs to Miller as they showcase the complicated life and mental gymnastics that Allen struggles with daily between being a superhero and a civilian. Michael Keaton was fantastic. Honestly, he could’ve just stood there in the Batman costume and the crowd would have loved it. He’s still got it. And again, Sasha Calle was amazing. Hopefully, we get to see her again in a future film.
The Flash releases in theaters on June 16, 2023. Remain safe and stay in the present.
Rated: PG-13
Runtime: 2h 35m
Director: ANDY MUSCHIETTI
Writers: CHRISTINA HODSON, JOHN FRANCIS DALEY & JONATHAN GOLDSTEIN and JOBY HAROLD
Producers: BARBARA MUSCHIETTI, p.g.a., MICHAEL DISCO, p.g.a.
Executive Producers: TOBY EMMERICH, WALTER HAMADA, GALEN VAISMAN, MARIANNE JENKINS
Director of Photography: HENRY BRAHAM, BSC
Music: BENJAMIN WALLFISCH
The Flash is an unconventional origin story that quite can’t outrun its shortcomings. Despite a heroic effort by Ezra Miller, the rest of the film just couldn’t keep up.
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GVN Rating 7
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User Ratings (1 Votes)
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