Why did the new Flash movie flop?

July 27, 2023

Review: The Flash Movie – A Blur of Confusion

As a cinephile and an ardent fan of superhero narratives, I approach every film adaptation with a sense of anticipation. Hoping to become swept up in a captivating storyline filled with engaging characters. In addition, Michael Keaton as Batman. How could I resist?

Regrettably, the latest cinematic entry from DC Comics, ‘The Flash’, proved to be an utterly dispiriting experience that failed spectacularly on all counts.

The film’s storyline was perhaps its greatest failing, a muddled mess that was neither comprehensible nor enjoyable. Whether you are an 8-year-old seeking a thrilling superhero adventure or a 40-year-old looking for layered, meaningful storytelling, ‘The Flash’ disappoints. Its plot is a labyrinthine concoction of inexplicable twists and turns that leave the viewer not only lost but utterly disinterested.

The criticism here isn’t about the contentious behaviour of its star, Ezra Miller, or the movie’s attempts at promoting social consciousness. No, ‘The Flash’ stumbles and falls due to its convoluted narrative and disjointed pacing. It’s a lesson in the dangers of overcomplicating a storyline at the expense of coherency and connection.

Why did the new Flash movie flop?

The film serves as a stark contrast to the exceptional superhero storytelling of yesteryears, such as Christopher Nolan’s Batman series. The Nolan trilogy, despite its depth and complexity, found itself rooted in simplicity. Its plot progression was clear, its characters grounded and relatable, its themes profound yet accessible.

In contrast, ‘The Flash’ feels like an aimless drift through a vortex of bewilderment, leaving the viewer with a nagging question: What happened to making simple movies?

This isn’t a call for a return to a bygone era devoid of modern sensibilities. Indeed, wokeness or the lack thereof is not the problem here. Rather, it’s the art of great storytelling that has become neglected. It’s about knowing your audience and delivering a movie that can entertain, engage, and possibly enlighten, regardless of its political or social undertones.

Unfortunately, DC Comics seems to be fumbling in the dark, attempting to create an engrossing cinematic universe but repeatedly missing the mark. ‘The Flash’, with its incomprehensible plot and disjointed narrative, is yet another disappointment from the comic book giant. It feels like decades since we last saw a truly great DC film, and one begins to wonder if they will ever recapture the magic that Christopher Reeve brought to Superman 40 years ago.

In conclusion, ‘The Flash’ was an exercise in frustration that left this viewer utterly disappointed. Furthermore a chore to watch! In addition, I found myself leaving the theater before the end. To look for a bathroom or gaze at my phone. Anything to make time pass. How much can I watch Ezra Miller talking to himself?

As a result of watching, I felt utterly drained and disenchanted.

DC Comics needs to take a step back! Reassess their approach to storytelling! If they hope to create movies that will endure in the hearts and minds of their audience.