The Flash (2023) – A Multiverse Adventure That Resets the DCEU
Release Date: June 16, 2023
Directed by: Andy Muschietti
Starring: Ezra Miller, Michael Keaton, Sasha Calle, Ben Affleck
🌀 A Fresh Take on Time Travel and the Multiverse
The Flash (2023) dives deep into the concept of the multiverse, something that has been a hot trend in superhero films. Barry Allen (Ezra Miller) uses his super speed to travel back in time in hopes of preventing his mother's tragic death — but his actions create a ripple effect across dimensions, timelines, and universes.
This storyline is inspired by the famous Flashpoint comic arc, and the film uses this narrative to explore big “what if” scenarios within the DC universe.
🦸♂️ Two Batmans, One Timeline: Michael Keaton Returns
One of the biggest surprises and highlights of the film is the return of Michael Keaton as Batman — the very same one from the Tim Burton era. His appearance not only satisfies long-time fans but also shows how time manipulation affects different realities.
We also see Ben Affleck’s Batman, making this one of the rare superhero films with multiple versions of the same character in the same movie. It’s bold, fun, and nostalgic.
🌟 Supergirl Makes Her Debut
Another major introduction is Supergirl, played by Sasha Calle. This version of Kara Zor-El is fierce and powerful, with a slightly darker backstory. While her screen time isn’t very long, it opens up new possibilities for DC’s future character lineup.
Her role replaces Superman’s in this timeline, which adds to the complexity of Barry’s altered universe.
⚡ Ezra Miller’s Dual Role: Barry vs. Barry
Ezra Miller plays two versions of Barry Allen in the movie — the present-day Flash and a younger, less experienced version of himself in the new timeline. Watching them interact adds humor, emotion, and chaos.
This dual role showcases Barry's internal struggle and how even good intentions can lead to unintended consequences.
🎨 Visual Effects and Direction
Director Andy Muschietti, known for IT (2017), brings a mix of eerie visuals and epic action sequences. The Speed Force scenes are visually impressive, though some critics pointed out inconsistencies in the CGI quality.
The film’s pacing keeps viewers engaged, with both emotional depth and explosive action scenes balanced throughout.
🧠 Themes That Go Beyond Superheroes
At its core, The Flash is about grief, acceptance, and the danger of clinging to the past. Barry’s journey is emotional and relatable, even for non-superhero fans. It explores the idea that pain shapes who we are — and that some events, however painful, cannot and should not be changed.
🎬 Final Thoughts: A Reset and a Farewell
The Flash (2023) serves as both a farewell to the old DCEU and a soft reset for what’s to come under James Gunn’s leadership. While not perfect, it’s ambitious and filled with memorable moments.
If you're a DC fan, or just enjoy multiverse stories with heart and humor, this is one film worth watching.
👍 Should You Watch It?
If you enjoy:
- Multiverse plots
- Superhero crossovers
- Emotional character arcs
- Throwbacks to classic Batman films
...then The Flash is definitely worth your time.
Have you seen The Flash (2023)?
Share your thoughts in the comments or check out our review of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom next!