The Flash packs a punch with an emotional story and delivers a multiverse like we’ve never seen. Fans of DC Universe will be pleasantly surprised. However, with heavy topics, is The Flash kid-friendly? I’m breaking down all of the thematic elements, including its PG-13 rating, in The Flash Parents Guide and Movie Review. Here’s what parents need to know to help YOU decide if it’s appropriate for kids. As always, no spoilers!
The Flash Parents Guide + Review
Barry Allen, “The Flash”, (Ezra Miller) has superhuman powers that allow him to travel the speed of lightning. In a Hail Mary attempt to bring back his mother and save his father from being wrongfully accused of her murder, Barry flashes back in time to alter these events. Unfortunately, when you cause a ripple in the timeline, there’s no guarantee of what that means for the future.
While we’ve had our share of multiverse movies with the Marvel Cinematic Universe, DC Universe gets the job done by making The Flash a story of its own. We really get an origin story of Barry Allen, and within the multiverse, we’re able to witness different dimensions of his character. Ezra Miller truly embodies his character and delivers a standout performance.
DC Universe really brings it with topnotch fan service. The plethora of cameos and Easter eggs within this film will have the audience erupting in cheers. Seeing Michael Keaton as Batman again was a major highlight, but there are so many other great characters brought back. I don’t want to spoil any surprises, but DC fans will be very happy.
The Cinematography
Different interpretations of the multiverse always seem to look impressive on the big screen, and the CGI visual effects in The Flash certainly don’t disappoint. The action sequences flow seamlessly when flashing from one timeline to the next. The Flash is visually mind-blowing, and while there’s a lot going on at times, the framework is not messy.
Is The Flash Kid-Friendly? Here’s Your Parents Guide:
Superhero movies are always a favorite among kids. However, the content is not always appropriate. The Flash is a really fun superhero because let’s face it, who doesn’t want to move lightning fast?! With that being said, The Flash does contain some heavy themes, and a PG-13 rating that might not be suitable for all ages.
Why is The Flash rated PG-13?
The Flash has an MPA rating of PG-13 for sequences of violence and action, some strong language, and partial nudity. It has a runtime of 2 hours 35 minutes. Here’s what parents need to know before seeing The Flash with your kids.
Violence: The violence and action sequences are much of what I’d expect from a superhero movie. There are many similarities to DCU’s recent Shazam: Fury of the Gods. The Flash is a very action-heavy film with perilous moments one after the next. Viewers can expect to see usage of guns, explosions, electrocution, high-speed car chases, and a stabbing. There is also a somewhat creepy scene of babies falling from the sky.
Language: The Flash has “some strong language” indeed. PG-13 movies are now allowed to have one F-bomb in a movie, and although I’m not a fan of profanity, the F-bomb is used quite well. Do I think it should be in a “family film?” Still no. But if it’s going to be there, at least place it well. Other lookout words include: d!ck, Hell, shit, @sshole, balls, scrotum, stupid, idiot, and sucks.
Mature Content: Barry’s mother was murdered when he was younger and his father is in prison accused of the murder. The death of a parent is always a heavy theme, add in the allegations of the father being the murderer takes it to a whole other level.
Other mature topics include a character excessively vomiting, drinking alcohol, and partial nudity where you see butt cheeks more than once.
What is the Age Recommendation for The Flash?
I saw The Flash with my 13 year old and 9 year old. However, I’ll be the first to admit that my 9 year old definitely sees things that my 13 year old didn’t at his age. I think that goes with the territory of having an older sibling. Both of my children enjoyed The Flash immensely. They loved the humor and the non-stop action. My 9 year old pointed out that although he thoroughly enjoys lots of action, he also appreciates a good storyline, which The Flash equally delivers.
Taking the above thematic elements into consideration, I would recommend The Flash for ages 10 and up if they’re accustomed to your typical superhero-type violence. Otherwise, I would suggest ages 12 and up.
The Flash is 2 hours 35 minutes in duration, and honestly, that’s a long movie for anyone. If your kids are antsy wiggle worms, it might be best to watch this one at home.
Does The Flash have an End Credit Scene?
The Flash does have one post credit scene once the credits roll. It’s worth sticking around for, especially if you’re a DCU fan.
Overall Thoughts
I’ve been anxiously awaiting to see The Flash since I saw the first trailer. Being a mom of two boys, I always appreciate when there’s a mother and son storyline. The Flash emotionally gutted me. The love between Barry and his mom is immeasurably felt, and when you know what fate lies ahead, it tears your heart out and stomps it into a thousand pieces. That only goes to show that The Flash fulfills a compelling storyline.
The Flash packs a powerful punch with mind-blowing visuals, laugh-out-loud humor, and a surprisingly emotional story that hits you right in the gut. The DC cameos are SO good! Flash on over to the theaters to see The Flash on June 16, 2023.
The Flash Synopsis
Barry Allen is struck by a bolt of lightning and thus, an extraordinary power is born inside him: The Speed Force. When he uses this power to run back in time and save his mother, he creates a world without heroes and General Zod has returned. To defeat him, his only hope rest in the hands of a retired Batman, another Barry and an imprisoned kryptonian.
I HOPE YOU FOUND THE FLASH PARENTS GUIDE AND MOVIE REVIEW HELPFUL FOR YOUR FAMILY. WILL YOU BE SEEING IT IN THEATERS?!
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