The Flash

The Flash is a 2023 superhero film based on the beloved DC Comics character Barry Allen, also known as the Flash. Directed by Andy Muschietti and written by Christina Hodson, the film is part of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). The story follows Barry Allen, played by Ezra Miller, as he travels back in time to save his mother, resulting in unexpected and chaotic consequences.

Alongside Miller, the cast includes Sasha Calle in her film debut as Supergirl, Michael Shannon as General Zod, Ron Livingston as Barry's father, Henry Allen, and Michael Keaton reprising his iconic role as Batman. The film also features performances from Maribel Verdú, Kiersey Clemons, and Antje Traue.

The journey to make a film about the Flash began in the late 1980s, with numerous changes in directors and writers over the years. After many delays and creative differences, Muschietti and Hodson became involved in 2019, and filming took place in 2021. The film is inspired by the Flashpoint comic series, diving into themes of time travel and alternate realities.

Release Information

The Flash premiered on 12 June 2023, at Grauman's Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, and was released in U.S. theaters on 16 June 2023. The film was met with mixed reviews, with critics praising its humor, action, and performances, yet criticizing the visual effects and the third act.

Box Office Performance

Unfortunately, The Flash performed poorly at the box office, grossing $271.4 million worldwide against a budget between $200 and $220 million. The film's disappointing performance has been attributed to various factors, including Ezra Miller's legal issues, the impending reboot of the DC franchise, and a general decline in interest in superhero films.

Plot Summary

In the film, after assisting Batman and Wonder Woman in stopping a robbery, Barry Allen revisits his childhood home. Overcome with emotion, he accidentally travels back in time using the Speed Force to prevent his mother's murder. However, his actions lead him to an alternate 2013 where he meets his past self and realizes he has lost his powers. As they face the threat of an invasion from General Zod, the two Barrys team up to find a way to restore Barry's powers and protect their world.

The film uses a mix of live-action and digital effects to explore the multiverse and includes characters from various DC adaptations. Audiences experience cameos from superheroes across different timelines, making it a nostalgic homage to DC's cinematic history.

Technical Aspects

With a runtime of 144 minutes, The Flash showcases impressive cinematography by Henry Braham and a stirring score by Benjamin Wallfisch. The film's complex visual effects were managed by multiple studios, emphasizing the ambitious nature of the project.

Despite its commercial struggles, The Flash remains a significant part of the DCEU, marking the journey of its characters and their evolution within the cinematic universe. As the franchise shifts toward a new direction under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran, the impact of this film will be felt as it lays the groundwork for future stories involving these iconic characters.