The Flash (2023) movie review : The Fastest Man Alive Races to Save the World

Plot

Welcome To The Flash (2023) movie review. The superhero movie The Flash from 2023 is based on Barry Allen, often known as The Flash, from the DC Comics. Warner Bros. Pictures distributes the movie, which is made by DC Films. The film, which is the twelfth in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), is a follow-up to the 2017 movie Justice League. Christina Hodson wrote the screenplay, which was directed by Andy Muschietti. In addition to Ben Affleck, Michael Keaton, Sasha Calle, Kiersey Clemons, Maribel Verd, Ron Livingston, and Billy Crudup, it also stars Ezra Miller as Barry Allen.

The film follows Barry Allen as he travels back in time to save his mother from being murdered, but his actions create a new timeline in which General Zod has returned and conquered Earth. Barry must team up with a different version of himself and his mentor, Batman, to defeat Zod and restore the original timeline.

The film opens with Barry Allen (Ezra Miller) revisiting his childhood home, where he lived with his parents Nora and Henry (Maribel Verdú and Ron Livingston) before Henry’s wrongful imprisonment for Nora’s murder. Nora was assassinated by an unknown assailant in the kitchen on the day of her death after she sent Henry to the shop to pick up a can of tomatoes she had forgotten to buy. Barry, who is experiencing emotional turmoil, unintentionally utilises the Speed Force to create a “Chronobowl” and go back to earlier in the day.

Barry confronts his younger self and prevents him from going to the grocery store, thus saving his mother from being murdered. However, Barry’s actions also create a new timeline in which his mother is alive, but he never receives his powers and General Zod (Michael Shannon) has returned and conquered Earth. Barry is captured by Zod’s forces and imprisoned in a prison camp.

Meanwhile, in the new timeline, Iris West (Kiersey Clemons) is investigating the disappearance of Barry Allen. She discovers the Chronobowl and uses it to travel back in time to the original timeline. Iris finds Barry in the prison camp and helps him to escape.

Barry and Iris travel to the Batcave, where they meet with Bruce Wayne / Batman (Ben Affleck). Batman is initially reluctant to help Barry, but he eventually agrees to help him restore the original timeline.

Barry and Batman travel back in time to the day of Nora Allen’s murder. They confront the Reverse-Flash (Daniel West), who is revealed to be the one who murdered Nora. Barry and Batman defeat the Reverse-Flash, but Barry is forced to watch his mother die again in order to restore the original timeline.

Barry returns to the present day and discovers that everything has been restored to normal. His father is free from prison, and he is back together with Iris. Barry realizes that he cannot change the past, but he can learn from it and move on.

The Dark Flash

In the mid-credits scene, Barry is visited by a mysterious figure known as the Dark Flash (Ezra Miller). The Dark Flash warns Barry that he is coming for him and that he will not be able to stop him.

The Dark Flash is a new character created specifically for the film. He is a malevolent version of Barry Allen who has been corrupted by the Speed Force. The Dark Flash is a major threat to Barry and the DCEU, and he is expected to play a major role in future Flash films.

The Flash (2023) is a superhero film that explores the themes of family, time travel, and redemption. The film is a visually stunning and action-packed adventure that features some of the most iconic characters from the DC Comics universe. The film also introduces a new and dangerous threat to the DCEU in the form of the Dark Flash.

Action sequences

The Flash (2023) features a number of action sequences that showcase the titular character’s super speed powers in creative and visually stunning ways. Some of the most memorable sequences include:

The Flash vs. Flash: In one of the most mind-bending action sequences in the film, Barry Allen faces off against an alternate version of himself from another timeline. The two Flashes race through a surreal landscape, each trying to outmaneuver the other. The sequence is a feast for the eyes, with the Flashes moving so fast that they appear to be teleporting around the screen.

The Flash vs. General Zod: In another epic battle, Barry Allen takes on the Kryptonian General Zod. Zod’s superior strength and durability make him a formidable opponent, but Barry is able to use his speed to outsmart him. The sequence features some truly impressive special effects, as the Flash and Zod trade blows at supersonic speeds.

The Flash rescues Supergirl: In one of the film’s most heartwarming moments, Barry Allen rescues Supergirl from a Soviet prison camp. The sequence is a thrilling display of the Flash’s speed and agility, as he dodges gunfire and defeats enemy soldiers in the blink of an eye.

The Flash resets the timeline: In the film’s climax, Barry Allen must race against time to reset the timeline and save his mother. The sequence is a visually stunning and emotionally charged tour-de-force, as Barry pushes himself to the limit to save the people he loves.

In addition to these major action sequences, The Flash (2023) also features a number of smaller action beats that highlight Barry Allen’s creativity and resourcefulness. For example, in one scene, Barry uses his speed to create a tornado to stop a bank robbery. In another scene, he uses his speed to create a series of afterimages to confuse and defeat a group of armed assailants.

Overall, The Flash (2023) features some of the most creative and exciting action sequences ever seen in a superhero film. The film’s director, Andy Muschietti, has a knack for staging visually stunning and emotionally resonant action sequences. The Flash’s action sequences are sure to leave audiences breathless

Character Development

The Flash’s character development in the 2023 film is focused on his coming-of-age as a hero and his understanding of the consequences of his actions.

At the beginning of the film, Barry is still learning how to control his powers and is struggling to deal with the grief of his mother’s death. He is also impulsive and reckless, which leads him to make a rash decision to travel back in time to save her.

When Barry arrives in the past, his actions have unintended consequences, creating a new timeline in which his mother is alive, but the world is a much darker place. Barry must learn to accept the consequences of his choices and find a way to fix the timeline.

Along the way, Barry learns to be more responsible and considerate of the people he loves. He also learns to appreciate the importance of family and friendship. Barry’s character development is evident in his interactions with Iris West, his best friend and love interest. At the beginning of the film, Barry is hesitant to commit to Iris, but by the end of the film, he realizes that she is the most important person in his life.

Barry’s character development is also evident in his relationship with his father, Henry Allen. Barry has always blamed Henry for his mother’s death, but in the new timeline, he learns that Henry is actually a good man who loves him very much. Barry forgives his father and the two of them develop a closer bond.

In the end, Barry is able to fix the timeline and restore the world to its original state. However, he is a changed man. He is now a more mature and responsible hero who understands the importance of his choices.

Here are some specific examples of Barry’s character development in the film:

 He learns to be more responsible. At the beginning of the film, Barry makes a rash decision to travel back in time to save his mother, without considering the consequences.. By the end of the film, Barry has learned to be more responsible and to think about the potential consequences of his actions before he takes them.

 He learns to appreciate the importance of family and friendship. Barry has always been close to his father, Henry Allen, but he has also blamed him for his mother’s death. In the new timeline, Barry learns that Henry is actually a good man who loves him very much. Barry forgives his father and the two of them develop a closer bond. Barry also learns to appreciate the love and support of his friend and love interest, Iris West.

 He learns to accept the consequences of his actions. Barry’s decision to travel back in time to save his mother has disastrous consequences for the world. However, Barry learns to accept the consequences of his actions and to take responsibility for them. He also learns that he can’t change the past, but he can learn from his mistakes and make the future better.

Overall, Barry’s character development in the 2023 Flash film is a positive one. He learns to be more responsible, to appreciate the importance of family and friendship, and to accept the consequences of his actions. He also becomes a more mature and confident hero.

Themes

The 2023 Flash movie explores a number of themes, including:

The consequences of time travel: Barry Allen’s decision to travel back in time to save his mother has unintended consequences, creating a new timeline in which he is powerless and his friends and loved ones are in danger. The film explores the idea that changing the past can have unforeseen and potentially disastrous consequences, and that we should be careful about what we wish for.

The importance of family and friendship: Barry’s journey to save his mother is motivated by his love for her and his desire to right a past wrong. However, he also learns that he cannot do it alone. He needs the help of his friends and allies, including Iris West, Supergirl, and two Batmans from different timelines. The film shows that family and friendship are essential sources of strength and support, and that we can overcome any challenge when we work together.

The power of redemption: Barry’s father, Henry Allen, was wrongfully imprisoned for the murder of Barry’s mother. Barry’s time travel adventure gives him the opportunity to exonerate his father and restore his honor. However, Barry also learns that his father is not perfect, and he must come to terms with his flaws. The film shows that redemption is possible for everyone, but it requires courage, humility, and forgiveness.

The importance of living in the present: Barry’s obsession with the past leads him to make many mistakes. He eventually learns that he cannot change the past, and that he must focus on living in the present and making the most of it. The film shows that it is important to cherish the moments we have with our loved ones, and to not take our time for granted.

In addition to these central themes, The Flash also explores other topics such as the nature of heroism, the importance of hope, and the power of love.

Overall, The Flash is a complex and thought-provoking film that explores a variety of themes in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The Direction

The direction of the movie “The Flash” released in 2023 is a mix of action, adventure, and science fiction. It is also a superhero film, as it is based on the DC Comics character of the same name. The film is directed by Andy Muschietti, who is known for his work on horror films such as “Mama” and the “It” films. However, “The Flash” is a more family-friendly film, with a focus on humor and heart.

The film follows Barry Allen (Ezra Miller), a forensic scientist who gains the ability to travel through time after being struck by lightning. Barry uses his newfound powers to try to save his mother, who was murdered when he was a child. However, his actions create a ripple effect that alters the timeline, creating a world without superheroes.

Barry must then team up with his father, Henry Allen (Billy Crudup), and a retired Batman (Michael Keaton) to restore the timeline and save the world. Along the way, he will also have to face off against General Zod (Michael Shannon), who has returned to Earth to wage war on humanity.

The direction of the film is fast-paced and visually stunning. Muschietti uses a variety of camera angles and editing techniques to create a sense of speed and excitement. The film also features a number of impressive action sequences, including a fight scene between Barry and General Zod that takes place in the middle of a city.

In addition to its action and adventure elements, “The Flash” is also a film about family and friendship. Barry’s journey is ultimately about trying to save his mother and protect the people he loves. He also learns the importance of teamwork and sacrifice along the way.

Overall, “The Flash” is a fun and exciting superhero film with a strong emotional core. Muschietti’s direction is stylish and visually stunning, and the cast delivers strong performances. The film is sure to appeal to fans of the DC Extended Universe, as well as general audiences.

The Cinematography

The cinematography of The Flash (2023) is directed by Henry Braham, who has previously worked on films such as Kingsman: The Secret Service and Mission: Impossible – Fallout. Braham’s cinematography for The Flash is visually stunning and innovative, capturing the speed and excitement of the film’s subject matter.

One of the most notable aspects of the cinematography is its use of color. Braham uses a vibrant and saturated color palette to create a visually striking world. The film’s opening scene, which takes place in Barry Allen’s childhood home, is a perfect example of this. The house is filled with rich colors, from the deep red walls to the yellow and blue furniture. The colors are so vibrant that they almost seem to pop off the screen.

Braham also uses color to create a sense of mood and atmosphere. For example, the scenes in the Speed Force are bathed in a bright white light, which gives them a sense of otherworldliness. The scenes in the new timeline, on the other hand, are much darker and more muted. This reflects the more somber tone of the new timeline.

Another notable aspect of the cinematography is its use of movement. Braham uses a variety of camera techniques to capture the speed and excitement of the film’s action sequences. For example, he often uses slow motion to highlight the Flash’s speed. He also uses handheld cameras and Steadicam shots to create a sense of immediacy and dynamism.

In addition, Braham uses a variety of different lenses to create different looks for the film. For example, he uses wide-angle lenses to capture the epic scale of the film’s action sequences. He also uses close-up lenses to capture the emotions of the film’s characters.

Overall, the cinematography of The Flash is stunning and innovative. Braham’s use of color, movement, and lenses creates a visually exciting and immersive world for the audience.

Here are some specific examples of the cinematography in The Flash:

 The opening scene of the film, which takes place in Barry Allen’s childhood home, is a perfect example of Braham’s use of color. The house is filled with rich colors, from the deep red walls to the yellow and blue furniture. The colors are so vibrant that they almost seem to pop off the screen.

 The scenes in the Speed Force are bathed in a bright white light, which gives them a sense of otherworldliness. In one scene, Barry is running through the Speed Force and the camera follows him, giving the audience a sense of what it would be like to run at super speed.

 The scenes in the new timeline, on the other hand, are much darker and more muted. This reflects the more somber tone of the new timeline. For example, in one scene, Barry is walking through a deserted city and the camera follows him from behind, giving the audience a sense of isolation and loneliness.

 The film’s action sequences are visually stunning and exciting. Braham uses a variety of camera techniques to capture the speed and excitement of the action. For example, he often uses slow motion to highlight the Flash’s speed. In one scene, the Flash is running through a city and the camera follows him in slow motion, giving the audience a chance to see all of the details of his movements.

 Braham also uses handheld cameras and Steadicam shots to create a sense of immediacy and dynamism. For example, in one scene, the Flash is fighting a group of villains and the camera follows him as he moves through the scene. This gives the audience a sense of being right in the middle of the action.

 Braham uses a variety of different lenses to create different looks for the film. For example, he uses wide-angle lenses to capture the epic scale of the film’s action sequences. In one scene, the Flash is running through a city and the camera uses a wide-angle lens to capture the entire city in the background. This gives the audience a sense of the Flash’s speed and power.

 Braham also uses close-up lenses to capture the emotions of the film’s characters. For example, in one scene, Barry is talking to his mother and the camera uses a close-up lens to capture his emotions. This gives the audience a sense of Barry’s inner turmoil.

Overall, the cinematography of The Flash is stunning and innovative. Braham’s use of color, movement, and lenses creates a visually exciting and immersive world for the audience.

The Music

The music of the 2023 film The Flash is composed by Benjamin Wallfisch, who previously collaborated with director Andy Muschietti on the It films. Wallfisch’s score for The Flash is a mix of orchestral and electronic elements, and it perfectly captures the film’s tone of excitement, adventure, and emotion.

The main theme of the score is a soaring and heroic melody that perfectly encapsulates the Flash’s speed and power. The theme is used throughout the film, but it is especially prominent in the action sequences. For example, the theme is played during the opening sequence, when Barry Allen first discovers his powers. It is also played during the climactic battle between the Flash and General Zod.

In addition to the main theme, Wallfisch’s score also features a number of other memorable melodies and motifs. For example, there is a tender and emotional theme that is played whenever Barry is thinking about his mother, Nora. There is also a dark and menacing theme that is played whenever General Zod is on screen.

Overall, Benjamin Wallfisch’s score for The Flash is a masterpiece. It is a perfectly crafted score that perfectly captures the film’s tone and themes. The score is also notable for its use of electronic elements, which gives it a unique and modern sound.

Personal Opinion

I personally found the 2023 Flash movie to be a mixed bag. On the one hand, I really enjoyed the character development of Barry Allen and the emotional core of the story. I also thought that Michael Keaton’s return as Batman was a real highlight.

On the other hand, I was disappointed by the film’s CGI, which was often subpar. I also found the plot to be somewhat convoluted and confusing at times.

Overall, I would say that the 2023 Flash movie is worth watching for fans of the character and the DCEU. However, it’s not without its flaws.

Here are some more specific thoughts on the film:

Character development: As I mentioned before, I really enjoyed the character development of Barry Allen in this film. It was great to see him learn to be more responsible and selfless, and to develop closer relationships with his father and Iris West.

Emotional core: The film also has a strong emotional core, exploring themes of grief, loss, and redemption. Barry’s journey to save his mother is very relatable, and the film does a good job of showing the emotional toll that it takes on him.

Michael Keaton’s Batman: Michael Keaton’s return as Batman was another highlight of the film. Keaton is still one of the best actors to ever play the role, and it was great to see him back on the big screen.

CGI: Unfortunately, the film’s CGI is often subpar. This is particularly noticeable in the scenes that take place in the alternate timeline.

Plot: I also found the plot to be somewhat convoluted and confusing at times. There are a lot of characters and subplots going on, and it can be difficult to keep track of everything.

Overall, I would say that the 2023 Flash movie is a mixed bag. It has some great things going for it, but it’s also not without its flaws. If you’re a fan of the character and the DCEU, then I would definitely recommend checking it out. However, if you’re looking for a perfect superhero film, then you might be disappointed.

FAQs

What are some of the critical reactions to the movie?

The Flash has received positive reviews from critics, who have praised its performances, action sequences, and visual effects. However, some critics have criticized the movie’s plot and pacing.

 Is the movie suitable for all ages?

The Flash is rated PG-13, and it contains some violence and action sequences that may be too intense for younger viewers.

How does the movie connect to the other DCEU movies?

The Flash is set in the DCEU, and it features references and characters from other DCEU movies, such as Aquaman, Justice League, and Man of Steel. However, the movie is also a standalone story, and it can be enjoyed by viewers who are not familiar with the other DCEU movies.

What are some of the Easter eggs and references in the movie?

The Flash is full of Easter eggs and references for fans of DC Comics and the DCEU. Some of the most notable references include:

Check out the latest  Adventure movies

Leave a Comment