The Flash: The Original Series (Blu-ray Review)
Starring: Danny Bilson, Paul De Meo, Howard Chaykin
RATED: UR/REGION A/1:33/1080p/NUMBER OF DISCS 10
AVAILABLE FROM Warner Archive Collection
“The Flash” (1990-1991) – a superhero show that still electrifies the airwaves with its zesty blend of action, drama, and campy charm. Starring John Wesley Shipp as the titular hero, Barry Allen/The Flash, this short-lived but beloved series is a nostalgic treat that will leave you humming the theme song long after the credits roll.
The plot follows Barry Allen, a crime scene investigator who gains superhuman speed after being struck by lightning and doused in chemicals. As The Flash, he fights crime and battles villains in Central City, while also navigating his personal life as a struggling single father. Shipp brings a likable everyman quality to the role, making Barry’s struggles relatable and endearing.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Rick Burgess’s Wally West/Kid Flash being a standout. The chemistry between Barry and his friends at the police station, particularly his partner Detective Jesse Quick (Amanda Pays), adds warmth and humor to the show.
The special effects, while dated by today’s standards, hold up surprisingly well. The Flash’s iconic red suit and lightning-fast movements are still mesmerizing, and the show’s use of practical stunts keeps the action sequences engaging. The score, composed by Danny Elfman, is catchy and memorable, perfectly capturing the show’s lighthearted spirit.
What truly sets “The Flash” apart, however, is its thematic depth. Beneath its surface-level superhero antics lies a thoughtful exploration of responsibility, identity, and the consequences of playing with forces beyond human control. Barry’s struggles to balance his dual lives as The Flash and Barry Allen serve as a powerful metaphor for the pressures of adulthood.
The tone of the show is effortlessly balanced between humor and heartache, making it a joy to watch. The show’s creators walk a fine line between campy fun and serious drama, often finding common ground in Barry’s relatable struggles.
The pacing is well-handled, with each episode expertly structured to balance action, character development, and plot progression. The editing is slick and precise, never overwhelming the viewer with too much information or confusing plot twists.
In short, “The Flash” (1990-1991) is a delightful throwback that still sparkles with charm. John Wesley Shipp’s performance as Barry Allen/The Flash is captivating, and the show’s themes and tone remain remarkably relevant today. If you’re looking for a fun, lighthearted superhero fix that will leave you smiling, look no further.
Extras
- None
