The Flash 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "The Flash" stands out as a visually exemplary release, thanks to its native 4K master sourced from 4.5K Arri Alexa LF and Alexa Mini LF cameras, complemented by some 8K footage captured on Red Ranger Monstro VV cameras. Featuring a 1.90:1 aspect ratio, the HEVC-encoded 2160p transfer excels with razor-sharp digital detail and a vivid color palette enhanced by HDR10 and Dolby Vision high dynamic range. This presentation effectively showcases intricate detail such as the unique patterns of The Flash’s suit, lifelike skin tones, and the rich texture of Batman’s leather attire. The combination of colors is visually stunning, providing a vibrant and immersive experience that outshines other DCEU films with its neon color grading and robust primaries.

The application of HDR is particularly noteworthy, creating deep, inky black levels and enhanced shadow detail that bring additional depth to low-light scenes. This is evident in sequences featuring the Speed Force and inter-universal landscapes, where the stark contrast between light and dark elements is accentuated beautifully. The electric blue and neon hues during scenes where The Flash speeds through timelines are rendered with unparalleled brilliance. The 4K transfer also manages high brightness levels exceptionally well, with no apparent compression artifacts, despite the inclusion of over four hours of additional content on the same BD100 disc.

While the CGI elements sometimes appear subpar against this ultra-high-definition backdrop, occasionally giving off a video game cut scene quality, the overall visual fidelity more than compensates for this minor drawback. Overall, "The Flash" delivers a spectacular visual experience on 4K UHD Blu-ray, making it a must-have for any home theater enthusiast.

The Dolby Atmos audio presentation on the 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "The Flash" is an exceptional example of immersive sound design. It features an active and dynamic mix that effectively utilizes audio objects, creating a profound sense of immersion. From the outset, the robust mix places sounds with remarkable precision, utilizing both ear-level and height channels to create a three-dimensional listening experience. The soundscape is rich with discrete effects, atmospherics, and panning fills, all contributing to a highly engaging auditory environment.

Dialog remains consistently clear amidst the cacophony of action, ensuring comprehensibility throughout. Noteworthy are the stunningly deep bass effects, especially during high-energy sequences such as Barry’s lightning runs and Batman’s batplane scenes. Explosions and lightning strikes deliver powerful, room-shaking low-end impact without overshadowing other elements. Meanwhile, overhead channels are employed to excellent effect, surrounding the listener with a dynamic sound bubble that enhances the overall viewing experience.

Additionally, the Dolby Atmos track excels in delivering both massive dynamic range and refined nearfield sound placement. Subtle nuances in quieter scenes transition seamlessly into thunderous action sequences, maintaining an impressive sound realism. The accompanying optional Dolby Digital 5.1 track offers a decent alternative but feels excessive given the superiority of the Atmos mix. Overall, this audio presentation is an exemplar of detailed, potent, and innovative sound mixing that complements the film’s visual splendor spectacularly.

The extras included in the 4K UHD Blu Ray of "The Flash" are impressive in scope, offering over four hours of extensive behind-the-scenes material, comprehensive featurettes, and an original podcast series. Key highlights include detailed scene breakdowns, cast and crew interviews, and a thorough exploration of both The Flash and Supergirl's histories. Particularly noteworthy are the features on the challenges of filming during a pandemic and the intricate visual effects. The inclusion of deleted scenes and a rare serialized podcast adds substantial value, making this package a must-have for any fan looking for an in-depth understanding of the film's production.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Flash: Escape the Midnight Circus podcast: Six-part original scripted audio series featuring Max Greenfield as The Flash.
• The Flash: Escape the Midnight Circus Behind the Scenes: Behind-the-scenes clips and interviews from the podcast.
• Deleted Scenes: Ten scenes presented in various stages of completion.
• Saving Supergirl: Scene breakdown focusing on the Siberian rescue sequence.
• The Bat Chase: Breakdown of Batman's race through Gotham.
• Battling Zod: Insights into the desert battle scene and COVID-related challenges.
• Fighting Dark Flash: Examination of the climactic fight and its visual effects.
• The Flash: The Saga of the Scarlet Speedster: Comprehensive history of The Flash across different media.
• Making the Flash: Worlds Collide: Detailed look at the filmmaking process and pandemic challenges.
• Let's Get Nuts: Batman Returns, Again: Feature on Michael Keaton's portrayal of Batman.
• Supergirl: Last Daughter of Krypton: Historical featurette on Supergirl.
• Flashpoint: Introducing the Multiverse: Introduction to the DC Multiverse concept.

The Flash delivers a surprisingly engaging narrative despite multiple challenges during its production. Directed by Andy Muschietti, the film navigates Barry Allen's attempt to use the Speed Force to alter history and prevent his mother's death. This creates an alternate timeline where General Zod threatens annihilation, and Barry must team up with a different, retired Batman (played by Michael Keaton) and an imprisoned Kryptonian (Sasha Calle's Supergirl). The story excels in its emotional depth, especially in the interactions between Barry and his parents. Michael Keaton's return as Batman is a standout, providing nostalgia and excitement, while Sasha Calle brings a fresh and well-developed Supergirl to the screen.

However, the film stumbles in several areas. The CGI often appears rushed and sub-par, detracting from the overall viewing experience. Numerous scenes, such as the opening robbery sequence and the multiverse bubble within the Speed Force, expose the limitations of the special effects teams. Ezra Miller's performance as Barry Allen has received mixed reactions; while some moments are applauded for emotional depth, others are criticized for coming across as overly hyperactive and cringeworthy. The tonal shifts between heartfelt drama and goofy comedy can be jarring, making the film's second half feel less cohesive.

Overall, The Flash succeeds in parts thanks to its emotional core, nostalgic elements, and strong performances by Michael Keaton and Sasha Calle. Yet, its shortcomings—namely inconsistent tone, rough CGI, and divisive lead performance—prevent it from being a standout superhero flick. While not the disaster some predicted, it falls short of fully realizing its ambitious vision.

The Flash: 4K UHD Blu-ray Review

The Flash's 4K UHD Blu-ray release by Warner Bros. Home Entertainment exhibits sparkling Ultra HD video quality that truly brings the colorful and fast-paced world of the Scarlet Speedster to life. The 2160p presentation, enhanced with Dolby Vision, offers a demo-worthy visual experience characterized by sharp detailing, vibrant colors, and deep blacks. Complementing the visuals is an exceptional Dolby Atmos audio track that provides an immersive surround sound experience. The engaging mix of sounds ensures that from high-octane action sequences to quieter dramatic moments, the viewer is fully enveloped in the film's soundscape.

Despite the film's mixed reception, there are notable highs within The Flash movie. Performances by Michael Keaton and Sasha Calle particularly stand out, with Keaton’s return as Batman adding a nostalgic charm that's worth the price of admission alone. Ezra Miller’s portrayal, while contentious, has moments that capture the character’s inherent whimsy and urgency, even if his performance may not be universally applauded. The narrative, however, can feel rushed and disjointed at times, hindering its overall impact. The bonus features included provide further enjoyment with behind-the-scenes looks and exclusive content that deepen appreciation for the film, although the omission of the standard Blu-ray disc in this combo pack might disappoint collectors.

In conclusion, The Flash is not bad. Ezra Miller makes you want to pull your own teeth out, but all of the other characters in it made for a much better watch than I initially anticipated. Michael Keaton alone was worth the price of admission, and Sasha Calle was a hugely pleasant surprise. I really almost wish that the DCEU was ending just because I would have loved to have seen them in future films. That being said, I’m not sad to see Ezra Miller’s tenure as The Flash come to an end, as I’ve always felt him the weakest link in all of the DCEU super heroes. The 4K UHD looks and sounds great, with some awesome extras, but there is one tiny nitpick that I have to point out. The lack of a Blu-ray included to make this a combo pack. I know Warner has done this for a few catalog titles, but this is the first time I can think of them taking a major blockbuster releasing and making it a single disc film. Paramount has done this for a while and it sort of chaps my bum, and Warner doing the same thing is a nerdy collector’s edition nitpick for me personally. Again, this isn’t the end of the world, but I had to get on my soap box and gripe for a second. Otherwise, this was actually a fun watch of a rather flawed film.