The Flash, DC’s iconic speedster, has finally made his solo theatrical debut after a decade of production challenges, with Ezra Miller portraying Barry Allen. The film offers a loose adaptation of the Flashpoint comics story, with elements that differ from the original storyline.
The plot revolves around Barry Allen, who is late for work when the movie takes viewers to an alternate universe where the Justice League is in action. Barry’s abilities and their metabolic effects are explored when he’s asked to assist in a bank robbery. The film delves into the personal difficulties of the Allen family, with Barry grappling with his mother’s death.
The story progresses as Barry, against Bruce Wayne’s advice, tries to prevent his mother’s death and ends up in an alternate 2013. He encounters a different version of himself and General Zod’s invasion, prompting him to help his younger self gain powers quickly.
As they aim to find Batman, they discover Michael Keaton’s Bruce Wayne, who joins their mission to locate Kal-El. Instead, they find Kara Zor-El, Superman’s cousin, and must battle General Zod. Barry recreates the experiment that gave him his powers, leading to a confrontation with the invading Kryptonians.
During the battle, Kara and Batman are killed, and the two Barrys attempt to change the outcome by traveling back in time, leading to a catastrophic event. A third speedster, 2013-Barry, is introduced, and the climax of the film involves time travel, sacrifices, and a chance to exonerate Barry’s father.
The film’s director, Andy Muschietti, mentioned that a significant amount of footage was left on the cutting room floor, and there were plans for even more characters and cameos, making it an extensive project.
Notably, some prominent characters, such as Henry Cavill’s Superman and Ray Fisher’s Cyborg, were missing from the film, indicating their uncertain future in the DC cinematic universe. While The Flash’s CGI and box office performance received criticism, its potential for a sequel remains uncertain, given the evolving landscape of DC Studio leadership.
In summary, The Flash’s theatrical debut presents an adapted storyline from the Flashpoint comics, exploring time travel and alternate universes while featuring a variety of DC characters and cameos. The film leaves the future of several characters and potential sequels in question.
