Wednesday, June 14, 2023

A Reel Preview: Everything you need to Know about THE FLASH




This week, one of the most anticipated, troubled, and controversial films of the year finally hits the big screen with THE FLASH. Here now in this preview is everything you need to know about the first solo film for DC Comics’ fastest superhero. 


What is this about? – THE FLASH follows Barry Allen, the fastest man alive, as he travels back in time to prevent the death of his mother’s death. His meddling in the timeline opens up a multiverse of alternate realities. 


Who is behind the camera? – THE FLASH is directed by Andy Muschietti, whose directing credits include the horror film MAMA (2013), and the two-film adaptation of Stephen King’s IT (2017, 2019). 


Who is in front of the camera? – The role of Barry Allen/The Flash is held down by Ezra Miller, who played the character in the two versions of JUSTICE LEAGUE (2017 and 2021). He has also starred in the three FANTASTIC BEASTS films. Miller is joined by Michael Keaton, who is reprising his role as Batman/Bruce Wayne from BATMAN (1989). Ben Affleck also reprises his role as Batman/Bruce Wayne. Also along for the ride is Michael Shannon (reprising his role as General Zod from MAN OF STEEL), and Sasha Calle (Supergirl). 


Random Facts – THE FLASH has been mired in controversy due to the many legal troubles surrounding lead actor Ezra Miller * THE FLASH has had many stops and restarts going back as far as the 1980’s. This version of the film was originally set for release in 2018 * The script is loosely based on the famous comic Flashpoint, but tells a different version of the story * With the multiverse in play, THE FLASH is promising to have many cameos from past DC Comics cinematic characters * Michael Keaton will be the oldest actor to play Batman in a live-action film, at 71 years old * Ben Affleck has now played the role of Batman four times on the big screen, more than any other actor * THE FLASH, along with AQUAMAN 2 in December, will mark a soft reboot for DC Comics on the big screen *


What to Expect - The bad news for THE FLASH is it's a DC film (produced by Warner Bros.), and they have been stuck in a pattern of one-step-forward, two-steps-back for a decade. Every hit they make gets followed up by two stinkers, and then those stinkers get remade a couple years later. The good news for THE FLASH is its coming off the heels of two DC bombs (BLACK ADAM and SHAZAM 2), so if the pattern sticks...THE FLASH will be alright. Also working in its favor is director Andy Muschietti, who has done decent-to-excellent work in his short filmography so far. THE FLASH also seems to be leaning heavily into nostalgia with the inclusion of Michael Keaton's BATMAN from 1989, and that can always go a long way when done right. The cloud in the form of Ezra Miller's legal troubles hangs over the film, but none of that should matter once the lights dim and the screen glows. THE FLASH has all the potential to be a real speedster. 

 

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THE FLASH opens Friday, June 16, with limited showings on the 15th





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