The Flash – Film Review

Published June 16, 2023

Movie Details

Rating
A
Director
Andy Muschietti
Writer
Christina Hodson
Actors
Ezra Miller, Sasha Calle, Michael Shannon, Ron Livingston, Maribel Verdú
Runtime
2 h 24 min
Release Date
June 13, 2023
Genres
Science Fiction, Action, Adventure
Certification
PG-13

When his attempt to save his family inadvertently alters the future, Barry Allen becomes trapped in a reality in which General Zod has returned and there are no Super Heroes to turn to. In order 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?

In the latest installment of the DC Extended Universe, director Andy Muschietti brings us The Flash, a film that intertwines different dimensions and timelines, creating a thrilling and mind-bending adventure. Set in a world where the Flash possesses incredible superhuman speed, the story follows Barry Allen as he attempts to rewrite history and prevent a tragic event from occurring. However, his actions have unintended consequences, plunging him into a reality where General Zod has returned, posing a threat of annihilation. With no other superheroes to turn to, the Flash embarks on a mission to revive a retired Batman and rescue a captive Kryptonian, leading to an epic clash of worlds.

One of the film’s standout elements is Ezra Miller‘s exceptional portrayal of Barry Allen, aka the Flash. Despite the controversy surrounding Miller, there’s no denying that they shine in the titular role. Miller flawlessly captures the essence of the character, blending vulnerability and humor with unwavering determination. Moreover, the actor navigates the challenging task of portraying two distinct versions of Barry Allen, demonstrating their versatility and range. Miller effortlessly switches between a lighter, more comedic portrayal and a darker, more tormented version of the character, making it look remarkably effortless.

For fans of the Michael Keaton Batman movies, like myself, The Flash offers an extra layer of nostalgia and excitement. Keaton’s return as Batman brings a flood of memories, harking back to the days when I was sixteen years old and completely obsessed with those films. Seeing Keaton’s version of Batman back on the big screen is a truly special experience. The veteran actor delivers a nuanced and exhilarating performance, embodying the essence of the Dark Knight with a mature and seasoned presence. Keaton’s Batman has never been more badass, and his chemistry with Miller’s Flash adds an extra dynamic to the film.

Sasha Calle‘s portrayal of Kara Zor-El, also known as Supergirl, is another standout performance in The Flash. Calle commands attention with her show-stopping presence, exuding strength, determination, and an air of intimidation. Her character brings a fresh and powerful energy to the film, and her chemistry with the other cast members is palpable. The action sequences involving Supergirl are phenomenally well-executed, showcasing her immense powers and adding an extra layer of excitement to the film.

While The Flash impresses with its gripping story and strong performances, there are a few areas where the film falls short. The CGI in some scenes is disappointingly subpar, particularly in the first and third acts. These moments, which require heavy visual effects, can be distracting and take away from the overall experience. It’s a shame that the CGI doesn’t consistently meet the high standards set by other aspects of the film. However, despite this shortcoming, the film’s captivating narrative and compelling characters manage to outweigh the occasional visual hiccups.

The Flash, directed by Andy Muschietti, is a thrilling and visually captivating superhero film. Ezra Miller delivers a remarkable performance as the titular hero, effortlessly embodying the duality of Barry Allen’s character. The return of Michael Keaton as Batman is a nostalgic treat, reminding fans of the iconic Batman movies of their youth. Sasha Calle’s powerful portrayal of Supergirl adds an extra layer of intensity and excitement to the story. While the CGI in some scenes falls short, the film’s engaging narrative and strong performances make The Flash a must-watch for superhero enthusiasts and fans of the DC universe.