The Flash - City of Heroes - Review

Note: This review is based upon the screener I received rather then the extended version that made it to air.

Finally the day has arrived and The Flash is set to begin, and what a way to begin it was. Between the special effects, the casting and overall action in the episode I was blown away. This is a true comic book show, and my inner fanboy was constantly squealing with delight. Compared to Arrow, The Flash has a more comic-style vibe but still retains that seriousness from Arrow. As a first attempt at expanding the world that begun with Arrow, I could really say that it was a success.

So much groundwork has already been laid in Arrow that it was really fun to see a different view on this world. The show is obviously intended for new viewers, some of which aren't fans of Arrow. But it also brings in those fans who have already met Barry and seen him interact with Oliver and friends. Overall it felt like an efficient origin for The Flash that really got us into Barry's story.

With the groundwork laid, The Flash was really able to flourish in ways that Arrow originally couldn't. Writers need to find that voice, that feel, that confidence to tell the story they want to tell. With Arrow, I felt this took a fair part of the first season. But in this case, it's all here right in the pilot. The supporting cast, the Hero, and our ongoing storyline are all laid out and as I said in my advance preview, so much was included that it felt like a condensed movie to me rather then a 40 minute pilot.

Having originally seen Gustin on Glee I wasn't sure if he held the acting chops to pull off Barry Allen. I'm glad to see that my fears were unfound. While his acting doesn't pack as much of a punch as some of the supporting cast (I'm looking at you Jesse L. Martin), he plays Barry with an almost childlike tone. I feel like if The Flash does last 5+ years we'll be able to look back at this moment and see Grant as he really starts to grow as an actor. Coming out from his former childlike shell to a full fledged action hero that people will look up too.

Another aspect I really liked is the Flash's sense of identity. Due to the difference in tone, we're going to see things that we haven't really seen in a superhero show before. That'll allow it to carve it's own identity and it's own distinct place in the hearts and minds of comic book fans young and old.

The whole supporting cast is introduced throughout the pilot and while I enjoyed them all their were some standouts. Jesse L. Martin and Tom Cavanagh really stole the show. A special mention also goes to Danielle Panabaker who's demeanor really set the tone for her character. Unfortunately during some scenes it felt like it all went away.

The main problems with the pilot though I felt was how much the other supporting cast really brought it down. While theirs a lot of room for improvement, Candice didn't sell me on Iris as someone who could be doing a thesis/dissertation. Carlos as Ramon also just felt too bubbly and fun, he needs to dial it back a little. Also while I liked the Weather Wizard, I would have preferred to see him explored a bit more. We started to see some kind of characterization near the end, but was all for nothing (would it have killed them to give him a motive? And why a farm? Was he previously a farmer or something?).

Hopefully this is only a single issue however as it sounds like all future villains are being booked for multiple appearances so they can be developed long term rather then as a one off.

So is it a keeper?
Personally, I believe it is. I feel more interested in The Flash then I did for Arrow this time last year. The buildup and impending crossovers will rapidly build up a bigger world with more and more for both newcomers and experienced comic book readers to enjoy. I for one am glad to be along for this ride.

Now here's something for you!
What did you think of the pilot?
What do you think Harrison is up to? Do you think he's a friend or a foe?

Bonus
Don't forget that DC has begun their Flash digital tie-in comic, the first hard copy collection has also been released. Set in-between episodes 1 and 2, this will expand the world in different ways from the TV show. Find out more here.

About the Author - Christopher DeBono

Australian Student. Addicted to TV, novels, comics and all things video games.

Watches everything on The CW and many Australian shows.

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