'The Flash' Movie Review: A CGI Disaster with a Lackluster Script

Table of Contents

Going into The Flash press screening last week, I had mixed feelings. I love Flash/Barry Allen, the character. However, I’m no longer an Ezra Miller fan. And I’m pretty sure almost everyone going to see this film is in the same boat.

So does the fact that Miller is in this one destroy the whole movie for fans? Or does it manage to entertain audiences without all the outside drama leaking in? Honestly, it’s a little bit of both. But the main issues I had with the film were issues I had with the script.

But before we dive into my thoughts, let’s set the stage. In the highly anticipated standalone feature film of the DC Superhero, Ezra Miller returns to the screen as Barry Allen, reprising their role as the beloved character. As Barry harnesses his superhuman abilities to travel back in time and change the course of his family’s fate, unforeseen consequences unfold.

Trapped in an alternate reality, Barry must confront the looming threat of General Zod, who poses a grave danger to humanity without any superheroes to defend them. Now faced with an arduous decision, Barry must contemplate making the ultimate sacrifice to restore balance and reset the universe.

The Flash Movie Trailer

The Flash Movie Review: What I Did and Didn’t Like

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is a hard act to follow in this genre. And having seen that movie days before I screened The Flash, it’s hard not to feel underwhelmed in comparison. Both films dive into their respective take on the multi-verse, and, without question, Across the Spider-Verse does it better.

Despite how it may sound, I did go into this one with an open mind. But I was annoyed within the first five minutes when we traveled with The Flash to Gotham. When he arrives in the Dark Knight’s city, he proceeds to save a number of babies that are horrifically flying out of a skyscraper that is in the process of crashing down. It’s clear that the writers are playing off of so many puns and disturbing jokes here. From a “baby shower” to putting a baby in a microwave, the whole scene is over the top and just foolish (not even silly, it’s a ludicrous scene).

So laying the groundwork there, the movie was not off to a stellar start for me.

The Flash Movie Review / Photo Credit: Warner Brothers

Story

While The Flash may offer glimpses of greatness in certain moments, these individual highlights fail to coalesce into a satisfying whole. Regrettably, the film’s overall execution is a convoluted mess, overstaying its welcome and squandering the potential to explore Supergirl’s character fully.

Without revealing any spoilers, it’s important to mention a particular scene towards the film’s conclusion that delves into the repercussions of Barry’s actions across the multiverse. Unfortunately, the sheer magnitude of it all feels excessive, and the CGI used is remarkably terrible, leaving you wondering what the heck you’re actually watching. The writers are making yet another attempt at injecting humor into the narrative, but once again, it just doesn’t work.

Continuing the trend of failed humor, the film also includes a post-credit scene featuring another Justice League character. However, I’m still unclear on its purpose and contribution to the storyline. It felt disconnected and lacked a clear narrative significance. (But that being said, definitely stay for the credits, as there are post-credit scenes. And if you figure out the importance of this referenced scene, let me know)

New Movies Coming Out: The Flash — Photo Credit: Warner Brothers

Acting

Ezra Miller actually delivers a strong performance here for what the script provides them to work with. It’s challenging to play two different versions of himself, impacted by different life events. Miller does a solid job at the role, but unfortunately, that alone isn’t enough to carry the film.

In addition to Miller’s performance, Michael Keaton’s highly anticipated return as Batman is a standout aspect of the film. Keaton effortlessly slips back into the iconic role, showcasing his talent and charisma. His presence on-screen brings a sense of nostalgia and excitement, reminding audiences of the lasting impact of his portrayal of the Dark Knight.

Despite the script’s limitations, Sasha Calle delivers a commendable performance as Supergirl. She embodies the iconic character with charisma and presence, showcasing her talent as an actress. However, it is unfortunate that the script fails to fully explore the emotional depth and potential of her character. There is a missed opportunity to delve deeper into Supergirl’s story and give her a more impactful role in the narrative.

Michael Keaton as Batman in The Flash / Photo Credit: Warner Brothers

Effects

The movie overwhelms the audience with excessive CGI, resulting in Ezra Miller’s portrayal of the Flash feeling faked while navigating an unappealing and visually chaotic mix of poorly conceived imagery. Even when in-costume, Miller’s face seems unnaturally superimposed on the Flash’s body, further distracting the audience from the actual storyline.

The special effects not only impact the film’s visual appeal but also detract from the overall immersion and believability of the story. Instead of being captivated by the spectacle, audiences are left longing for a more grounded and organic approach that allows the story and performances to shine through.

Overall

The Flash is one of DC’s better movies. But that’s a low bar.

The film falls short of expectations with average writing and terrible special effects. Michael Keaton is arguably the best thing about this movie. But this isn’t a Batman movie. It’s a Flash movie. And in the end, that’s what should have wow’ed us.