The Flash (2023) Review

Directed by Andy Muschietti, The Flash (2023) is one of the most anticipated entries in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), serving as both a standalone story for Barry Allen and a multiverse-spanning adventure that connects the past, present, and future of DC’s cinematic endeavors. With a blend of nostalgia, action, and emotional depth, the film manages to deliver an ambitious, albeit uneven, superhero spectacle.

Plot Overview

The story follows Barry Allen (Ezra Miller), who, after mastering his powers as the fastest man alive, discovers that he can travel through time. Haunted by the death of his mother and the wrongful imprisonment of his father, Barry decides to alter the past, saving his mother and creating an alternate timeline.

However, this seemingly perfect world spirals into chaos when Barry discovers that his actions have inadvertently erased key protectors of the multiverse. Teaming up with an alternate version of himself, an older and disillusioned Batman (Michael Keaton), and Supergirl (Sasha Calle), Barry must confront the consequences of his choices and battle a resurrected General Zod (Michael Shannon) to restore balance to reality.

Performances

Ezra Miller gives a layered performance as Barry Allen, showcasing both the youthful humor and deep emotional pain of the character. The dual portrayal of two versions of Barry highlights Miller’s versatility, though at times, the comedic tone of the younger Barry can feel overbearing.

Michael Keaton’s return as Batman is a standout, bringing gravitas and nostalgia to the film. His portrayal captures the weariness of a seasoned hero while reigniting the excitement of his iconic role from Tim Burton’s Batman films. Sasha Calle’s Supergirl makes a strong impression, exuding strength and vulnerability, though her character’s limited screen time leaves much to be desired.

Michael Shannon reprises his role as General Zod with intensity, though his character feels underutilized as the film shifts its focus to Barry’s personal journey and the multiverse. Supporting performances from Kiersey Clemons as Iris West and Ron Livingston as Henry Allen add emotional grounding but are overshadowed by the larger-than-life stakes of the story.

Visuals and Action

Visually, The Flash excels in its depiction of speed and time travel, with innovative sequences that highlight Barry’s powers. The “Speed Force” scenes are particularly mesmerizing, blending CGI with dynamic cinematography to create a sense of awe and disorientation. The action set pieces, including the climactic battle against Zod’s forces, are well-choreographed and visually striking.

However, some CGI elements, particularly in character renderings and background details, appear inconsistent, detracting from the film’s overall polish. While the multiverse concept allows for creative visual storytelling, the execution occasionally feels chaotic and overwhelming.

Themes and Writing

At its core, The Flash is a story about loss, acceptance, and the dangers of tampering with time. Barry’s journey explores the emotional toll of grief and the realization that some events are immutable. The film’s exploration of the multiverse offers opportunities for introspection, as Barry grapples with the consequences of his actions and learns the importance of selflessness.

The screenplay, written by Christina Hodson, balances humor and drama, though the tonal shifts can feel jarring. While the narrative ambitiously tackles complex themes and incorporates numerous characters and timelines, it occasionally sacrifices coherence for spectacle, leaving some storylines underdeveloped.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The Flash shines in its emotional moments, particularly the scenes between Barry and his mother, which anchor the story’s emotional stakes. Michael Keaton’s Batman adds depth and nostalgia, while the film’s humor and action sequences provide entertainment.

However, the film’s pacing can be uneven, with the middle act feeling overstuffed as it juggles multiple subplots and characters. The reliance on fan service, while gratifying for long-time DC fans, sometimes overshadows the central narrative. Additionally, the inconsistent CGI undermines the immersion in key moments.

Conclusion

The Flash (2023) is a bold and ambitious entry in the DCEU that delivers exhilarating action, heartfelt moments, and nostalgic callbacks. While its execution is uneven and its narrative occasionally overreaches, the film’s emotional core and standout performances make it a memorable addition to the superhero genre.

For fans of the DCEU and multiverse storytelling, The Flash offers a thrilling and poignant ride through time and alternate realities. Despite its flaws, it sets the stage for intriguing possibilities in the future of DC’s cinematic universe, leaving audiences with much to anticipate.