The Flash, in the guise of Barry Allen, first appears in Arrow in Season 2, Episode 8, titled “The Scientist.” This episode sets the stage for Barry’s origin story and his eventual transformation into the hero we know and love, marking a pivotal moment in the Arrowverse’s expansion.
The Genesis of a Hero: Barry Allen’s Introduction to Starling City
The arrival of Barry Allen in Starling City isn’t just a cameo; it’s a carefully crafted introduction to a character who would become an integral part of the burgeoning interconnected universe of DC superheroes on television. “The Scientist” episode serves as more than just a plot point in Arrow; it’s the first significant step towards building the expansive Arrowverse.
Barry, portrayed by Grant Gustin, is introduced as a forensic scientist from Central City. He arrives in Starling City to assist Detective Quentin Lance with a cold case – a series of seemingly superhuman crimes. This showcases his dedication to solving complex cases, even traveling across state lines to pursue justice. His scientific expertise and infectious enthusiasm immediately contrast with Oliver Queen’s grim and often solitary approach to crime-fighting.
Beyond his professional capabilities, the episode hints at Barry’s personal struggles and motivations. We see glimpses of his past, alluding to the unsolved mystery of his mother’s death and his father’s wrongful imprisonment. These details lay the groundwork for the deeply personal story that would drive his own series, The Flash. The seeds of his desire to help people, born from personal tragedy, are firmly planted.
Furthermore, “The Scientist” establishes the initial connection between Barry and Oliver. Their interactions are brief but impactful. Oliver, initially skeptical of Barry’s approach, eventually recognizes his inherent goodness and potential. This foreshadows their future collaborations and the respect that will grow between them. It’s the beginning of a dynamic partnership that will define much of the Arrowverse.
Seeds of Speed: Foreshadowing Barry’s Transformation
While Barry doesn’t yet possess his super speed in “The Scientist,” the episode is rife with subtle foreshadowing, hinting at the extraordinary events that will soon transform him. These hints are carefully interwoven into the narrative, creating a sense of anticipation for viewers familiar with the Flash’s origin story.
One key element is the focus on STAR Labs and its involvement in the mysterious events plaguing Starling City. STAR Labs, known for its groundbreaking research and sometimes-questionable experiments, is presented as a source of advanced technology, some of which could potentially explain the superhuman abilities exhibited by the criminals Barry is investigating.
The episode also features a pivotal scene where Barry expresses his fascination with the theoretical possibilities of speed and momentum, showcasing his inherent curiosity about the very concepts that will define his powers. This is not merely idle speculation; it’s a deliberate nod to his future as the Flash.
Perhaps the most significant foreshadowing comes at the episode’s conclusion. Barry, having solved the initial mystery, prepares to return to Central City. Unbeknownst to him (and most viewers at the time), a particle accelerator at STAR Labs is about to be activated. This event, of course, will result in the fateful storm that grants Barry his powers. The final shots linger on Barry’s optimistic farewell, knowing that his life is about to change forever.
Beyond “The Scientist”: The Flash’s Arrowverse Journey
The appearance in “The Scientist” is just the beginning. Barry returns in the very next episode, “Three Ghosts” (Season 2, Episode 9), where the full impact of the STAR Labs explosion is revealed, leaving him in a coma. This two-part storyline provides a solid foundation for the launch of The Flash series.
The introduction of Barry Allen into Arrow proved to be a masterstroke. It allowed the writers to organically expand the universe, introduce metahumans into a world that had previously focused on grounded (relatively speaking) vigilantism, and breathe new life into both series. The success of The Flash cemented the Arrowverse as a major force in superhero television, paving the way for Legends of Tomorrow, Supergirl, and other interconnected shows. It was a gamble that paid off handsomely, turning Arrow from a standalone show into the cornerstone of a massive, thriving franchise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What season and episode of Arrow is Barry Allen first introduced?
Barry Allen is first introduced in Season 2, Episode 8 of Arrow, titled “The Scientist.”
Is Grant Gustin the only actor to play Barry Allen/The Flash in the Arrowverse?
While John Wesley Shipp portrayed Barry Allen/The Flash in the 1990s series and has reprised the role as Jay Garrick (Earth-3 Flash) in the Arrowverse, Grant Gustin is the primary actor who portrays Barry Allen/The Flash across the Arrowverse shows, including Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl, and Legends of Tomorrow.
Does Barry Allen get his powers in the Arrow episode “The Scientist?”
No, Barry Allen does not get his powers in “The Scientist.” The episode sets the stage for his transformation, hinting at the impending STAR Labs particle accelerator explosion that will grant him his super speed. He gets his powers following the events of the Arrow two-parter.
How does Oliver Queen react to Barry Allen’s presence in Starling City?
Oliver is initially skeptical of Barry’s approach and scientific methods, finding them somewhat naive compared to his own hardened tactics. However, he gradually comes to respect Barry’s intelligence and good intentions.
What is Barry Allen investigating in Starling City?
Barry is investigating a series of unusual crimes seemingly committed by someone with superhuman strength. This investigation allows him to showcase his forensic skills and ultimately connect him to the broader storyline.
What role does STAR Labs play in Barry Allen’s origin story in the Arrowverse?
STAR Labs, specifically its particle accelerator, is directly responsible for granting Barry Allen his powers. The particle accelerator’s explosion floods Central City with dark matter, altering Barry’s physiology and giving him super speed.
Is Felicity Smoak involved in Barry Allen’s storyline in “The Scientist?”
Yes, Felicity Smoak is instrumental in assisting Barry Allen with his investigation. She uses her tech skills to help him analyze evidence and uncover clues related to the superhuman crimes. This strengthens their connection as she eventually plays a significant role in The Flash series as well.
How did the introduction of The Flash change the tone of Arrow?
The introduction of The Flash (and the subsequent launch of his own series) gradually shifted the tone of the Arrowverse. Arrow, initially grounded in a darker, more realistic world, began to embrace more fantastical elements, including superpowers and metahumans. This created a more diverse and expansive superhero universe.
What other DC Comics characters are referenced or appear in the Arrow episodes that introduce The Flash?
Besides Barry Allen, STAR Labs is a significant DC Comics element introduced. While no other established DC heroes directly appear in these episodes, the groundwork is laid for the introduction of other metahumans and powered individuals later in the Arrowverse.
What happens to Barry Allen at the end of the Arrow episode “Three Ghosts?”
At the end of “Three Ghosts,” Barry Allen is struck by a burst of energy from the STAR Labs particle accelerator explosion. He is severely injured and left in a coma, setting the stage for his eventual recovery and transformation into the Flash in his own series.
In what episode does Oliver first learn of Barry’s power and becomes aware of him as The Flash?
Oliver first learns of Barry’s powers and his identity as The Flash in the crossover episode between Arrow (Season 3, Episode 8: “The Brave and the Bold”) and The Flash (Season 1, Episode 8: “Flash vs. Arrow”). This is where they officially team up and work together as heroes.
Was bringing the Flash into Arrow a popular decision with fans at the time?
Yes, the introduction of Barry Allen/The Flash into Arrow was widely well-received by fans. It generated considerable excitement and anticipation for the launch of The Flash series, and helped build a strong foundation for the shared Arrowverse universe that has become a staple of superhero television. It showcased the potential for interconnected storylines and character crossovers, significantly increasing fan engagement.