Run, Barry, Run.

In a world plagued by production challenges and controversies, 2023’s The Flash defied all odds to see the light of day. Despite the significant hurdles faced during its troubled production, including the controversy surrounding Ezra Miller, the actor portraying the titular scarlet speedster, the film managed to see the light of day. I had the opportunity to dive into the world of the fastest man alive, and it was a wild ride. The Flash maintains a relentless pace, which both enhances and, at times, hinders the overall film. Join me this week on Gaber’s Two Cents as we explore the reasons behind these highs and lows.

For one, I think that it must be said that most of the reviews that decided this films critical fate are biased to the highest degree. While we here at Gaber’s Two Cents do not condone the allegations against Ezra Miller, It does not excuse the fact that many of the critiques of the film speak on Ezra’s actions outside of filming, rather than giving their own opinion on why they did or did not like the film at hand. Separating the art from the artist is an essential component for any critic, no matter the medium. So to bash a film that hundreds upon hundreds of people worked on, for solely one mans actions is inexcusable, and inappropriate for all of the hard work put in by the films entire team. Now that this has been said, shall we get down to business?

The Flash starts off with exhilarating pace. We are shown a Barry Allen that despite his speed, is desperately trying to keep up with life. Whether it be balancing his day job with superhero responsibilities, or attempting to make more friends that don’t wear capes or masks. Barry has a lot going on, and the juggling of all of these themes helps the viewer to realize that even The Flash cannot be everywhere at once. It’s a charming and relatable opening that finally puts the spotlight on one of the more underdeveloped DCU characters, and it helps to set the pace for what is to come by the films end.

Another nice touch in this film is how DC seems unafraid to include other heroes within this universe. From Batman to Wonder Woman, the heroes that show up aren’t simply there for glorified cameos. Barry’s actions impact them just as much as himself, and it’s nice to finally see all of these heroes together again, even if this truly is the final film set within this cinematic universe. It’s also a huge plus that the heroes faces are actually shown, rather than being regulated to the shadows or having the camera cut just below the neck. Something that DC was all too comfortable with in the films that came before.

Remarkably there is a lot of emotional depth within the more personal arcs of the film. The film revolves around the tragic murder of Barry’s mother, serving as its emotional backbone. Which explains Barry’s social difficulties, which are rooted in a deep-seated pain. Personally, I tend to roll my eyes when familial themed dialogue finds its way into superhero films. An example of this is the forced lovey dovey dialogue contained in both of The Shazam! films. However, Ezra Miller and actress Maribel Verdu, who plays Barry’s mother Nora, bring authenticity and realism to every scene they share. With both of these realistic portrayals, it allows the audience to feel what Barry has lost. This also enhances the resonance of Barry’s actions as he attempts to save his mother, prompting self-reflection on whether one would make the same choice. Director Andy Muschietti provides insight into the motivations behind Barry’s character, and the film would most certainly feel incomplete without this essential character arc.

With every superhero film, great action must be present in order to showcase the heroes unique power set, and In The Flash it is no different. Andy Muschietti directs these set pieces with a fiery visual flair, that demonstrate just how powerful The Flash can be. From slowing down time to save a hospital full of infants, to creating vortexes with the simple spin of his hand, there are several key move sets that appear that will make any DC fan grin with joy. The final battle in particular is a great showdown, that puts Flash against one of the more powerful DC villains, General Zod. It’s all done quite well and demonstrates how a man that can run fast could go toe to toe with an essential god. The scenes that illustrate Barry entering the speed force are just the cherry on top. Although some of the CGI contained within these particular scenes can be a tad shoddy, it does little to deter from the experience as a whole.

Barry isn’t the only hero protagonist as well. Once the multiverse shenanigans begin to kick off we are finally able to witness both Michael Keaton’s return as Batman, and Sasha Calle as Supergirl. Both Keaton and Calle give kickass performances that even rival Ezra’s exceptional performance as Barry Allen. Keaton eats up every scene he’s in with batty one liners and a physical presence that is not only seen but felt. My only qualm with his inclusion is that I hoped there would be more references to his original 90’s batman films that came before. Nevertheless, it’s great to see one of the best Batmen back on screen for another adventure. Equally, Sasha Calle is great as Supergirl as well. With energetic brutal fight scenes that make you feel every thud and crunch that she inflicts on her adversaries. While the fate of this cinematic universe is already known, one can only hope that James Gunn can convince Calle to dawn the cape for DC’s next chapter.

This leads into the biggest problem with The Flash. If everything that came before, all of the character development, relationships, and battles fought, why should the audience see the film if it is all going to be reset regardless. It’s a unique problem that may have even had a factor in the somewhat dismal opening numbers for the films release. Avid DC fans are likely to embrace or even appreciate the Flash’s in-universe actions that result in a reboot of the DC cinematic universe, recognizing the potential for fresh storylines and character development. However, average filmgoers may find it unappealing to invest in a film that ultimately resets everything and lacks connection to the previous films. Again this is a new type of issue since every major franchise these days seems to find more and more ways to branch out and make everything connect to the larger grand scheme of things. However it does beg the question, why is it that audiences expect every film to connect to a larger universe or have epic scale to capture their interest? A valid question that criticizes audiences expectations, and the industry as a whole.

Overall The Flash is an enjoyable ride that allows audiences a glimpse into the fastest man alive. Great cameos, excellent action, and a pace that never stops moving provide the film with plenty of thrills. However, occasional second-rate CGI, and a somewhat confusing ending keep this adventure from reaching full speed. All that and more is why The Flash received this particular Cent Score.

Cent Score: 3 Cents

The pros outweigh the cons, sit back, don’t think too much and you’ll be fine.

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