The Flash: Before and After
The Flash, the Fastest Man Alive, has been a beloved superhero in the DC Comics universe for decades. With a rich history spanning over 75 years, the Scarlet Speedster has undergone several transformations, from his earliest iterations to the modern iterations we see today. Let’s take a look at the evolution of The Flash, both before and after his most significant reboot in 2011.
The Original Flash (Flash Comics #1, 1940)
Dr. Harrison Wells, the brilliant scientist who would become a central character in later adaptations, first introduced The Flash, Barry Allen, in Flash Comics #1 in 1940. Barry, a crime scene investigator, gained his powers after being struck by a bolt of lightning and soaked in chemicals. With the ability to move at incredible velocities, Barry became The Flash, fighting crime and injustice in Central City. His arch-nemesis, The Trickster, would soon emerge, creating a dynamic between the duo that would be echoed in future adaptations.
The 1970s Revamp (CBS, 1978)
The 1978 TV series, starring John Wesley Shipp as Barry Allen, marked a significant departure from the original concept. The show’s emphasis on police procedural elements, as well as the romantic relationship between Barry and his colleague, Iris West (Louise Robey), gave the character a fresh, modern spin. However, the series only ran for one season, resulting in a limited impact on the character’s overall mythos.
The Silver Age (Showcase #4, 1956)
The Silver Age revival of The Flash saw Barry Allen return to comics in 1956. With his powers now an integral part of his biology, Barry continued to use his speed to fight villains, while his relationships with Iris and his friends underwent significant changes. This iteration solidified Barry’s identity as a superhero and provided a foundation for future revamps.
The Brightest Day (2010)
In 2010, The Flash saw another major reboot, introduced as part of the Blackest Night event. Following the resurrection of Barry Allen, The Flash’s status as a legacy character solidified. Barry’s time as the hero was relaunched, with him working alongside the Justice Society of America. This update emphasized the importance of team dynamics and set the stage for future revamps.
The New 52 (The Flash #1, 2011)
The Flash’s modern era began in 2011, as part of the DC Comics relaunch, The New 52. Written by Geoff Johns, the series introduced the new, reimagined Barry Allen, with altered backstory and a fresh beginning. The character’s reinvigorated mythology shifted focus to Barry’s friendships, relationships, and connections with the larger DC Universe.
The CW Television Series (2014-Present)
Grant Gustin’s portrayal of Barry Allen/The Flash in the 2014 CW TV series marked a significant departure from previous adaptations. The show’s blend of action, romance, and science fiction provided a unique take on the character, introducing new villainous foes, such as Captain Cold and Zoom, and incorporating characters from across the DC Universe.
In conclusion, The Flash, from his earliest iterations to his modern interpretations, has undergone significant transformations. Before the 2011 relaunch, Barry Allen struggled to maintain a consistent sense of identity, with characters like Wally West, Bart Allen, and the original Jay Garrick introducing variations to the mythos. After the reboot, Barry Allen emerged as the primary Flash, with an updated mythology and a richer connection to the DC Universe.