“The Flash” movie, unfortunately, careens into theaters not as the lightning-fast triumph DC fans desperately craved, but as a severely flawed film hampered by inconsistent CGI, a muddled narrative, and a reliance on nostalgia that ultimately undermines its potential. While boasting moments of genuine heart and showcasing Ezra Miller’s undeniable talent (albeit within complicated contexts), the film’s overall impact leaves a lingering sense of unfulfilled promise and a feeling that DC’s multiverse ambitions are still far from fully realized.
A Crash Course in Disappointment: Deconstructing the Flaws
To understand just how bad “The Flash” is, we need to dissect its shortcomings. It’s not a uniformly terrible film; there are glimmers of brilliance, fueled by moments of genuine character connection and some clever visual sequences. However, these are overshadowed by a series of cascading issues.
The most glaring problem lies with the CGI. In an era where visual effects are becoming increasingly seamless and believable, “The Flash” often presents a jarringly artificial aesthetic. Key action sequences, particularly those involving Barry’s speed force abilities, look unfinished and unpolished, detracting significantly from the overall viewing experience. Imagine expecting a thrilling roller coaster and receiving a rickety, unpainted wooden version instead – that’s the feeling many viewers encountered.
Furthermore, the narrative struggles to maintain a consistent tone and focus. While the core concept of Barry altering the past to save his mother is emotionally resonant, the film quickly becomes bogged down in convoluted multiverse mechanics and fan service that, while initially appealing, ultimately detracts from the central story. The inclusion of multiple Batmen (Michael Keaton’s return being a major selling point) felt more like a marketing gimmick than a narrative necessity, further diluting the film’s emotional impact. The emotional weight of Barry Allen’s journey is lost in the cacophony of cameos and alternate timelines.
Finally, there’s the issue of Ezra Miller’s performance. While their raw talent shines through in moments of vulnerability and humor, their dual portrayal of Barry Allen (both the present and alternate versions) can be jarring and tonally inconsistent. The erratic energy of the younger Barry, while intentionally presented as awkward and naive, often veers into cartoonish territory, undermining the emotional weight of the film. The viewer is left feeling as though they are watching two different movies at times, unable to reconcile the differences into a singular, cohesive piece.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “The Flash”
Here are some of the most common questions surrounding “The Flash” movie, answered with expert insight:
FAQ 1: Is the CGI in “The Flash” really that bad?
Yes, unfortunately. While some scenes benefit from strong visual effects, many others, particularly during high-speed sequences, are plagued by noticeable flaws. Characters often appear to be floating, the textures are blurry, and the overall aesthetic feels unpolished. This is especially noticeable in the extended action sequences and detracts from the sense of immersion. The poor CGI is distracting, and often pulls the viewer out of the experience.
FAQ 2: How does “The Flash” compare to other superhero movies?
Compared to other recent superhero releases like “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” (renowned for its innovative animation) or “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” (praised for its emotional depth and cohesive narrative), “The Flash” falls short. While it attempts to emulate the multiverse-spanning narrative of the former, it lacks the visual flair and consistent storytelling. It also fails to achieve the emotional resonance of the latter, leaving viewers feeling less invested in the characters and their journeys. The reliance on nostalgia is not enough to elevate it into the ranks of these other iconic films.
FAQ 3: Does Michael Keaton’s Batman steal the show?
While Michael Keaton’s return as Batman is undoubtedly a highlight for many viewers, his presence ultimately feels more like a cameo than a substantial contribution to the plot. He brings a nostalgic charm and a welcome dose of dry wit, but his character arc feels underdeveloped, and his motivations are somewhat unclear. The film uses him as a selling point but fails to provide him with a narrative purpose that is more than just fan service. He shines in small moments, but his overall impact on the plot is limited.
FAQ 4: Is “The Flash” worth watching for the cameos alone?
If you’re purely interested in seeing familiar faces from DC’s past, then perhaps. However, if you’re looking for a compelling story with strong character development and consistent visuals, the cameos alone won’t justify the experience. The film prioritizes nostalgia over substance, leaving viewers feeling underwhelmed by the lack of a cohesive narrative. The cameos are a fleeting distraction from the underlying problems of the film.
FAQ 5: Does the movie address the controversy surrounding Ezra Miller?
No, the film largely ignores the real-world controversies surrounding Ezra Miller. While this decision may be understandable from a production standpoint, it leaves a lingering disconnect for many viewers who are aware of the allegations. It’s a topic the studio intentionally avoided, making the experience difficult for some viewers.
FAQ 6: How confusing is the multiverse aspect of the film?
The multiverse elements in “The Flash” can be quite confusing, particularly for viewers who are not already familiar with the concept. The film introduces multiple timelines and alternate versions of characters, which can become difficult to track and understand. This convoluted narrative detracts from the emotional core of the story and leaves viewers feeling overwhelmed. A simpler approach would have made the story easier to follow and connect with.
FAQ 7: Is “The Flash” a good entry point for newcomers to the DC universe?
No, “The Flash” is not a good entry point for newcomers to the DC universe. Its reliance on existing lore and multiverse mechanics makes it difficult for those unfamiliar with the characters and storylines to follow along. The film assumes a certain level of knowledge about the DC universe, which can be alienating for new viewers. A more self-contained story would have been a better introduction.
FAQ 8: How does “The Flash” set up future DC movies?
The ending of “The Flash” attempts to set up the new DC Universe under James Gunn and Peter Safran. However, the extent to which these setups will actually be followed through on remains to be seen. The film’s ambiguous ending leaves the future of the DC universe unclear and uncertain. The attempt to bridge the old and new universes feels forced and ultimately unsatisfying.
FAQ 9: What are the biggest missed opportunities in “The Flash”?
One of the biggest missed opportunities is the lack of a truly compelling villain. While General Zod returns, his presence feels more like a plot device than a genuine threat. The film fails to develop his character in a meaningful way, leaving viewers feeling underwhelmed by his motivations. A stronger antagonist would have added more tension and excitement to the story.
FAQ 10: Is there anything genuinely good about “The Flash”?
Yes, despite its flaws, “The Flash” does have some redeeming qualities. Some of the performances are strong, particularly those of Ezra Miller in certain moments and Michael Keaton (though his screen time is limited). There are also some moments of genuine emotional resonance, particularly those involving Barry’s relationship with his mother. And Sasha Calle as Supergirl provides some great action and a promising introduction to the new DCU. But overall these strengths are overshadowed by the film’s weaknesses.
FAQ 11: Should I see “The Flash” in theaters or wait for streaming?
Given the film’s mixed reviews and visual inconsistencies, waiting for streaming is likely the best option for most viewers. This will allow you to watch the film without feeling pressured to justify the cost of a theatrical experience. You can then make your own judgement on its quality without the weight of the hype or expectation.
FAQ 12: What could have been done to improve “The Flash”?
Several factors could have improved “The Flash,” including a stronger focus on character development, a more coherent narrative, and significantly improved CGI. Simplifying the multiverse elements and prioritizing emotional resonance over fan service would have also been beneficial. Ultimately, the film needed a stronger vision and a more consistent execution. A focus on the central conflict and a greater emotional investment would have resonated more strongly with viewers.
The Final Verdict: A Flash in the Pan
Ultimately, “The Flash” movie is a disappointment. While it attempts to deliver a thrilling multiverse adventure, it falls short due to its inconsistent CGI, convoluted narrative, and overreliance on nostalgia. While some viewers may find enjoyment in the cameos and moments of genuine heart, the film’s overall impact is ultimately underwhelming. “The Flash” remains a prime example of a film with immense potential that ultimately fails to live up to its promise. It is a cautionary tale for future superhero films, highlighting the importance of prioritizing a coherent narrative, strong visuals, and genuine emotional connection with the audience.