The Flash movie review (2023)
Introduction
“The Flash” manages to captivate and frustrate viewers in equal measure. With its mix of thoughtfulness and cluelessness, it presents a challenging and pandering narrative.
The film showcases both outstanding digital effects and disappointing visuals, leaving audiences in awe one moment and disappointed the next. Much like its titular hero, it continuously exceeds expectations only to stumble and crash into obstacles.
However, “The Flash” repeatedly hits the reset button, exploring the concept of time, parallel universes, and the alteration of canonical events, offering a unique and unstable blend of genres such as comedy, drama, action, and science fiction.
Unfortunately, it arrives on the heels of “Spider-Man: Across the Spider verse,” a visually innovative superhero movie that covers similar themes, making “The Flash” seem less groundbreaking.
Exploring Barry Allen’s Complexities
Ezra Miller takes on the role of Barry Allen, a forensic scientist in his twenties who secretly doubles as a superhero.
However, Miller’s offscreen controversies undermine some of the film’s raunchier comedic moments. Barry grapples with the trauma of his mother’s murder and his father’s wrongful imprisonment for the crime.
“The Flash” finds itself caught in a double bind—revealing the film’s meatier aspects necessitates diving into detailed plot points that may have already been spoiled by trailers and marketing material.
Barry’s Time Travel Odyssey
The heart of “The Flash” lies in Barry’s attempt to rewrite history by altering the day his family was destroyed. This ambitious endeavor takes inspiration from the iconic ending of 1978’s
“Superman: The Movie,” where the Man of Steel turns back time to resurrect Lois Lane. Director Andy Muschietti and screenwriter Christina Hodson delve deep into this concept, expanding it into an entire film reminiscent of the “Back to the Future” series.
As Barry encounters a parallel version of himself with a happier life, he begins to realize his own flaws and the impact he has on those around him.
Ezra Miller’s Dual Performance
Muschietti’s direction accentuates the anxiety, clumsiness, and facial tics of one version of Barry, almost akin to the schlemiels portrayed by Jerry Lewis.
However, as the two Barrys join forces, Miller skillfully differentiates their personalities. This allows the original Barry to mature gradually, following the traditional arc of a young hero.
The film’s visual effects shine in these mirror-image interactions, creating a believable portrayal of two distinct characters played by the same actor.
Building on the DCEU Canon
“The Flash” ties itself to the overarching narrative of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) by revisiting the city-leveling battle between Superman and General Zod in “Man of Steel.
” The aftermath of this event has shaped subsequent films, and it resurfaces in “The Flash,” but in a different universe. The aged Bruce Wayne, portrayed by Michael Keaton, assumes the role of Batman in this reality, adding depth and nuance to the story.
Keaton’s subtle performance serves as a counterbalance, smoothing out Miller’s energetic and occasionally jumpy portrayal of Barry.
An Unconventional Justice League
With the absence of a traditional Justice League team, the burden falls on Batman, the two Barrys, and the newly discovered Supergirl (Sasha Calle) to confront Zod and his villainous army.
Here, the film’s references to the “Back to the Future” films take center stage, offering a unique spin on the concept of time travel. The resulting battle, while visually less convincing than desired, raises thought-pro.
Conclusion
“The Flash” is a mixed bag of superhero cinema, showcasing both thoughtful elements and missed opportunities. The film explores complex themes but struggles to deliver them in a cohesive and visually engaging manner.
While it raises philosophical and ethical questions, it also contradicts its own warnings through its narrative choices.
Despite its flaws, “The Flash” manages to provide some thought-provoking moments and a somewhat hopeful ending without entirely negating the issues it raises.
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