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July 27, 2026Sources cited
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Entertainment • Film

The Flash

The Flash is a 2023 American superhero film based on the DC Comics character Barry Allen / The Flash.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Flash is a 2023 American superhero film based on the DC Comics character Barry Allen / The Flash. Directed by Andy Muschietti, it follows Barry as he travels back in time to try to save his mother, only to become trapped in an altered timeline. The film is the 13th and final film released in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU).

Plot

The film follows Barry Allen after he uses his powers to travel back in time in an attempt to change the past and save his mother. The mission alters reality, forcing him to deal with a damaged timeline and a renewed threat from General Zod.

Cast

Ezra Miller plays Barry Allen / The Flash. The film also features Sasha Calle, Michael Shannon, Ron Livingston, Maribel Verdú, Kiersey Clemons, Antje Traue, Michael Keaton, and Ben Affleck.

Production and release

The film was directed by Andy Muschietti and released by Warner Bros. Pictures on June 16, 2023. It was produced for DC Films and Warner Bros. Pictures.

DC Extended Universe context

The Flash is the 13th film in the DC Extended Universe. It is commonly discussed as one of the franchise’s multiverse-focused entries and includes characters from different Batman film continuities.

Key facts

  • Ezra Miller stars as Barry Allen / The Flash.
  • The story centers on Barry using super-speed and time travel to try to prevent his mother’s death.
  • His actions create an alternate timeline in which superheroes are largely absent and General Zod returns.
  • The film includes Michael Keaton as Batman, with Ben Affleck also appearing as Batman in the DCEU timeline.
  • The Flash was directed by Andy Muschietti and released in theatres on June 16, 2023.
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Canadian context

The Flash was widely released in Canadian cinemas as part of a major Hollywood superhero franchise, making it relevant to Canadian audiences as a mainstream theatrical release.

Frequently asked questions

What is The Flash movie about?
It follows Barry Allen as he travels back in time to try to save his mother, but his actions create an altered timeline with new dangers, including the return of General Zod.
Who plays The Flash in the movie?
Ezra Miller plays Barry Allen / The Flash.
When was The Flash movie released?
It was released in theatres on June 16, 2023.
Is The Flash movie part of the DCEU?
Yes. It is the 13th film in the DC Extended Universe.
Who directed The Flash?
Andy Muschietti directed the film.
Does The Flash movie have multiple Batmen?
Yes. The film includes Michael Keaton as an alternate Batman and Ben Affleck as Batman in the DCEU timeline.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Flash_(film)
    Supports: Release year, director, starring actor, plot premise, DCEU status
  2. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_flash_2023
    Supports: Plot synopsis, director, release date
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0439572/
    Supports: Plot premise and cast listing
  4. RogerEbert.com — https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-flash-movie-review-2023
    Supports: Director and story context
  5. USA Today — https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/movies/2023/06/17/the-flash-movie-spoilers-ending-explained/70319152007/
    Supports: Multiple Batman appearances and multiverse story elements