My quick rating - 6.5/10. Ok, that CGI baby in the microwave looked AWFUL. 220 million dollar budget and hardly beat the dancing baby gif everyone has seen? Anyways, this 2023 version brings an interesting twist to the superhero genre by exploring the consequences of time manipulation while introducing an unexpected Batman. While the film is a notable improvement over its predecessors, it still struggles with certain inconsistencies and casting choices that might leave audiences divided. One of the flix undeniable strengths lies in the inclusion of the original Batman, portrayed masterfully by a returning Michael Keaton. Keaton's seasoned performance as Bruce Wayne brings a darker and more seasoned vigilante to the screen, injecting a much-needed gravitas into the storyline. The dynamic between Keaton's Batman and Ezra Miller's Barry Allen adds depth to the narrative, elevating the movie beyond the challenges it faces. Their initial meeting is classic and a highlight of all their interactions throughout. Speaking of which, the decision to cast Ezra Miller as Barry Allen continues to be a contentious choice for me as well as all fans. Many still wonder why Grant Gustin, who has garnered a dedicated following as the Flash in the TV series, wasn't allowed to shine on the big screen. Miller's portrayal of Barry Allen lacks the charm and relatability that Gustin effortlessly brings to the character. His awkwardness often falls flat and he struggles to connect with the audience on the emotional level necessary for a character-driven story. The plot revolves around Barry's reckless attempt to alter the past and save his family, resulting in a world without superheroes. This premise offers a unique opportunity to explore the consequences of tampering with time, but the execution isn't always seamless. The movie juggles various timelines and alternate realities, and the transitions between these can be confusing at times. While the concept is intriguing, the script's complexity occasionally hampers the viewer's engagement. Visual effects play a pivotal role in superhero movies, and this flick is no exception. However, the CGI effects in this film are inconsistent. While some sequences showcasing Barry's super speed are visually impressive and exhilarating, other scenes suffer from noticeable flaws, which can momentarily detract from the overall viewing experience and it doesn't help when such a poor one is front and center at the beginning. Michael Shannon as General Zod was a bold move, and his portrayal adds a layer of nostalgia for fans of earlier Superman films. However, it's worth noting that the film abandons the opportunity to fully explore Melissa Benoist's popular character from the Supergirl TV series, opting for newcomer Sasha Calle as Supergirl. Calle's performance is commendable, but it leaves one wondering whether the change was truly necessary. In the end, I felt the flick managed to salvage itself from being a complete disappointment with the inclusion of Michael Keaton's Batman and some thrilling action sequences directed by Andy Muschietti. The exploration of time manipulation and its consequences adds an interesting dimension to the superhero narrative. While the film falls short of being worth the wait fans endured, it offers a unique take on the superhero genre and sets the stage for potential improvements in future installments depending on what in the world James Gunn has in store for the DC universe.
The Flash (2023)
Updated: Aug 29, 2023
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