Rated: M
The Flash, directed by Andy Muschietti, takes inspiration from the beloved "Flashpoint" storyline from the comics and brings it to life on the big screen. As a fan of this storyline, I was excited to see how it would be adapted, and I must say that the film did not disappoint. While it had its flaws, The Flash delivered an engaging story with impressive performances, particularly from Ezra Miller as Barry Allen, aka The Flash.
One of the standout aspects of The Flash was its faithful adaptation of the "Flashpoint" storyline. This narrative arc has long been cherished by fans, and Muschietti's film successfully captures the essence of the source material. The story explores the consequences of time travel as Barry Allen finds himself in an alternate timeline where his actions have drastically altered the world. The film delves into the emotional ramifications of these changes, offering a thought-provoking exploration of identity and personal sacrifice.
Ezra Miller's portrayal of Barry Allen was one of the highlights of the film. Miller brings a unique blend of vulnerability and determination to the character, capturing the essence of the scarlet speedster. His acting was commendable, as he effectively conveyed Barry's internal struggles and growth throughout the story. Miller's performance showcased the complexity of the character, making him relatable and endearing to the audience.
However, The Flash suffered from some noticeable issues with its CGI. While the visual effects were generally impressive, there were instances where the CGI felt strange and disrupted the immersion. In particular, some of the CGI characters exhibited an uncanny valley effect, where their appearance felt slightly off and less lifelike. These moments detracted from the overall visual experience and were a noticeable flaw in an otherwise visually stunning film.
On a positive note, The Flash features the return of Michael Keaton as Bruce Wayne/Batman, which is sure to evoke a wave of nostalgia for fans of the Tim Burton Batman films. Keaton's performance is a delight to watch, bringing back the iconic charm and intensity that made his portrayal of Batman so memorable. His presence in the film adds depth and richness to the overall narrative, and his interactions with Barry Allen create a captivating dynamic between the two characters.
Andy Muschietti, known for his work on the IT films, showcases his versatility as a director with The Flash. He expertly balances the film's humorous and heartwarming moments, creating an enjoyable cinematic experience. Muschietti's direction allows the story to flow smoothly, and his understanding of the source material shines through in the film's faithful adaptation of the "Flashpoint" storyline.
Overall, I rate The Flash a solid 8 out of 10. While the film excels in its storytelling and the performances of Ezra Miller and Michael Keaton, the inconsistent CGI brings down its overall impact. Nonetheless, The Flash is a must-watch for superhero enthusiasts and DC fans alike. Muschietti's heartfelt take on Barry Allen's journey, combined with the nostalgia-inducing return of Michael Keaton as Batman, makes for an entertaining and worthwhile superhero film.
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In Cinemas 15th June 2023