This show was so special to me when I was a kid, because I felt like they were finally making something for the kids who were different, and before this show there wasn't really anything like it. John Wesley Shipp's flash had this way of speaking that always made you feel alright. It was a different time. There were a lot of kids who needed it, and I was definitely one of them. Of course the networks had no idea what to do with it - even Batman was a fluke at the time, because comic books were still considered something specifically for nerds - and liking nerd things meant being uncool. Now after 25 years, comic book movies rule entertainment. I gave it 8 stars out of ten, because there were some cheesy moments. It comes off very G-Rated these days, but we shouldn't measure our shows by how dark and violent they can be, because people are forgetting about the goodness and kindness that comes from the natural desire to do good. The flash is a kind person who respects the people around him, and I'm happy to see that the 2014 Flash series with Grant Gustin is carrying the torch in not only giving us another flash, but paying homage to the 90's version by including John Wesley Shipp. I hope to see more of the 90's cast make appearances as time goes on.
40 Reviews
Different from the actual TV show
RealLiveClaude6 July 2015
Those who know about the reboot of the actual TV show with Grant Gustin should take it lightly. The 1990 version is a bit campy, very art-deco vs. modern and it is less about sentiments, more about commitment.
Some of the classic Flash villains are represented here. John Wesley Shipp does do a great personification of Barry Allen. However, there is few to compare to what is today, as Star Labs is represented here as a simple laboratory compared to the "stadium" structure of today...
Good note here: Mark Hamill makes us forget his Star Wars heroics by portraying the wacky Trickster. And Amanda Pays is so cute, even as a bad girl in one of the episodes.
However, enjoy it for its camp humour.
The Flash still rules in Central City !
Some of the classic Flash villains are represented here. John Wesley Shipp does do a great personification of Barry Allen. However, there is few to compare to what is today, as Star Labs is represented here as a simple laboratory compared to the "stadium" structure of today...
Good note here: Mark Hamill makes us forget his Star Wars heroics by portraying the wacky Trickster. And Amanda Pays is so cute, even as a bad girl in one of the episodes.
However, enjoy it for its camp humour.
The Flash still rules in Central City !
Very entertaining
WeAreLive16 October 2017
Warning: Spoilers
I have only seen two episodes of this Flash TV series (The Trickster and The Trial of The Trickster) and I have to say I found this show very hilarious and funny.
Even the intro reminds me of BTAS.
The last episode was the funniest where The Trickster hypnotizes the flash to do his crimes.
Even the intro reminds me of BTAS.
The last episode was the funniest where The Trickster hypnotizes the flash to do his crimes.
Network bumbling ruined an otherwise FUN show!
Asteri-Atypical4 February 2005
This was a "cute and fun" show which stands out in my mind as one of the first and most unfortunate examples of network mismanagement I'd seen.
I recall The Flash being bounced around the schedule more than a superball without advance warning. If I recall correctly, the third or fourth week it aired it was already a rerun! To make matters worse, the show was often not aired in the slot advertised in the TV schedules (which, in 1990/91, before the net, was pretty much the only way to know what would be on). The worst example was once when I tuned in to see The Flash, I was just in time to see it going OFF! I called the local TV station about this who informed me that "it was moved an hour earlier at the last minute by the network". No new show could have survived this kind of treatment.
Oh, well. It was a show that was genuinely fun to watch and captured a true "comic book" feel. It died far too early.
I recall The Flash being bounced around the schedule more than a superball without advance warning. If I recall correctly, the third or fourth week it aired it was already a rerun! To make matters worse, the show was often not aired in the slot advertised in the TV schedules (which, in 1990/91, before the net, was pretty much the only way to know what would be on). The worst example was once when I tuned in to see The Flash, I was just in time to see it going OFF! I called the local TV station about this who informed me that "it was moved an hour earlier at the last minute by the network". No new show could have survived this kind of treatment.
Oh, well. It was a show that was genuinely fun to watch and captured a true "comic book" feel. It died far too early.
Better then the new series - most of the time
emaughan25 February 2016
It was great to find this series again as I missed many of the original episodes when they came out. This series is great in that it has more heart than the new series. The special effects are, at times, better than the CGI intensive new episode. It is refreshing to see the Flash speed pummel an adversary, old Flash is more buff an less wimpy/whinny then new Flash. Old Flash is more action and less angsty than new Flash.
The new series does have some better villains and Cisco's humor is great. It is interesting to see that the main characters from the first series are given roles in this series. I like both, but the old one has the edge!
The new series does have some better villains and Cisco's humor is great. It is interesting to see that the main characters from the first series are given roles in this series. I like both, but the old one has the edge!
25 years gone by in a flash..
kopfanuk2 July 2015
Hard to believe I watched this 25 years ago, seems just like yesterday (actually it was - I have been watching the boxset) Great fun, fairly simple plots, decent effects, one or two slightly dangerous situations for the Flash to get out of and some funny one-liners and gags to be had..
All-in-all, it was a series that didn't take itself too seriously, didn't require any knowledge of superhero mythology to enjoy and wasn't overly violent and sweary (so granny didn't have to be wheeled outside and put in the shed for an hour)
I would like to give mention to some of the supporting cast who were terrific:
The ever-lovely Amanda Pays - I can't resist a girl with a plummy English accent... (though they seem to have little trouble being able to resist me)
Alex Désert - Barry Allen's colleague at the forensics lab. Julio and Barry bouncing jokes and quips off each other is one of the highlights of the show. Also Julio's 'does he know/doesn't he know' looks that he gives Barry when he suddenly vanishes.
Officers Murphy and Bellows - who could have been a comedy TV double act of their own. These two hapless(mostly) cops always seem to be in the wrong place at the right time and their bickering about whether the Flash actually exists is a constant amusement.
Also: Mark Hammill, Joyce Hyser, Michael Nader, M. Emmet Walsh... to name a few guest stars.
I haven't yet got round to watching the new series of the Flash.. mostly out of my love of this 90's series. But I will... someday.
All-in-all, it was a series that didn't take itself too seriously, didn't require any knowledge of superhero mythology to enjoy and wasn't overly violent and sweary (so granny didn't have to be wheeled outside and put in the shed for an hour)
I would like to give mention to some of the supporting cast who were terrific:
The ever-lovely Amanda Pays - I can't resist a girl with a plummy English accent... (though they seem to have little trouble being able to resist me)
Alex Désert - Barry Allen's colleague at the forensics lab. Julio and Barry bouncing jokes and quips off each other is one of the highlights of the show. Also Julio's 'does he know/doesn't he know' looks that he gives Barry when he suddenly vanishes.
Officers Murphy and Bellows - who could have been a comedy TV double act of their own. These two hapless(mostly) cops always seem to be in the wrong place at the right time and their bickering about whether the Flash actually exists is a constant amusement.
Also: Mark Hammill, Joyce Hyser, Michael Nader, M. Emmet Walsh... to name a few guest stars.
I haven't yet got round to watching the new series of the Flash.. mostly out of my love of this 90's series. But I will... someday.
Good, but...
neil-47611 March 2014
Warning: Spoilers
I've been a Flash fan since the early 60s, and I thoroughly enjoyed this series when it surfaced on DVD (we got the pilot but not the series in the UK). Here are my comments, in no particular order: John Wesley Shipp was fine as Barry Allen and Flash.
The costume was OK. The muscled look was, to me, wrong, but it worked. Kind of.
The effects weren't bad for a TV series at that time, albeit on DVD there is a noticeable granulation to the image when an effects shot begin.
Amanda Pays' role and the exhaustion effect. This annoyed me, but I suppose you have to have some sort of jeopardy built in or else the character is too powerful (either that or the writers weren't good enough).
And my major bugbear: the series was too formulaic. Maybe it didn't matter at the time, but if you watch the boxset you find yourself saying "Hang on - didn't I already watch that story?" Well, yes, you did. But here it is again, dished up next week with different characters.
So I rank this an honourable failure (or a qualified success). Let's hope the new version does the trick(ster)!
The costume was OK. The muscled look was, to me, wrong, but it worked. Kind of.
The effects weren't bad for a TV series at that time, albeit on DVD there is a noticeable granulation to the image when an effects shot begin.
Amanda Pays' role and the exhaustion effect. This annoyed me, but I suppose you have to have some sort of jeopardy built in or else the character is too powerful (either that or the writers weren't good enough).
And my major bugbear: the series was too formulaic. Maybe it didn't matter at the time, but if you watch the boxset you find yourself saying "Hang on - didn't I already watch that story?" Well, yes, you did. But here it is again, dished up next week with different characters.
So I rank this an honourable failure (or a qualified success). Let's hope the new version does the trick(ster)!
It didn't get a fair chance to achieve its full potential
Theacadian74-128 July 2008
The Flash was a great series and I'm sure it would've really hit its stride in its second season, if it would've HAD a second season. It wasn't given a fair chance. I loved that show but, like others have on this forum have said, it was bounced around the TV schedule like a rubber ball, and often preempted because of the Gulf War, which took precedence on the airwaves. The acting was great, the special effects were quite good for the time, and the episodes were quite entertaining. I own on the complete series on DVD now that it's available on DVD and I really enjoy watching episodes. I wonder if it will become a sort of cult classic....Or maybe it is already?
Flash back to the 90's
trekmann018 February 2014
Recently I have been watching this series on DVD. Reason being that back in the day when it was being aired I didn't have cable. And trying to watch it via broadcast airwaves was next to impossible. That being said I was really excited when it became available on DVD. Upon viewing this series although good, it seems for lack of a better word, a bit campy. With almost every scene having some kind of artwork in the back ground and the odd use of old style cars mixed in with modern cars of the day. It kind of didn't set an accurate time line for the series. However seeing it now with actors and actresses I recognize makes me go "Wow, that's so and so". The suit was awesomely done and the acting was A1. For being filmed in the 90's it's too bad that it wasn't given the chance of at least one more season. So I'm looking forward to seeing a movie on this super hero character adding to the long list of other super hero movies. Hopefully it will be here in a Flash.
Good old days
Bored_Dragon5 September 2017
Warning: Spoilers
At the beginning of the second season, new Flash started to bore me. I don't want to give up on it just yet, but I decided to pause for a while by going back to a show of my childhood, "The Flash" from 1990. When I was in elementary school I thought this was awesome. Now... The show is outdated in every aspect, but although the story is much simpler than in the new one and effects are more primitive, old Flash has that nostalgic charm of '80s B production and comic-book atmosphere. Although the new one is objectively better, the old Flash I love much more.
7/10
Plots are completely different. Beside a few names and the fact that Flash is a speedster who fights crime, they have almost nothing in common. The way Barry becomes Flash is completely different and "same" characters have completely different characteristics and mutual relationships. While in the new Flash Iris is a black journalist and his adopted sister in whom he is secretly in love, in old one she is a white artist and the girl who leaves him. The new Flash is based on his father being convicted for the murder of his mother and Flash trying to find a way to free him and punish the real murderer, but in the old Flash both of his parents are alive and well and he has cop brother who dies. From base to details these two shows are completely different. I have no idea which version is adapted from the comics, if any, but in my opinion, the plot of the new Flash is too complicated and in combination with modern technology, effects and production it totally lacks the soul of comic-book.
7,5/10
As I watch more episodes I like this more and more and I have less and less will to ever finish the new version. I just realized that the same actor plays Flash in the old and Flashes father in the new show. Beside John Wesley Shipp, at least four other actors appear in both shows. Amanda Pays, who plays the leading female role in the old Flash, role divided to Wells and Caitlin in the new version, 25 years later reappears in the same role. Alex Desert, whose role in the old version is the closest thing to Cisco from the new one, also reprises his role in a few episodes of the new Flash, same as Vito D'Ambrosio as Mayor Bellows and Luke Skywalker as Trickster. In the old version Barry became Flash after he was hit by lightning, so he's the only meta-human there, while villains are mad, genius and backed up with some serious technology, but still just humans. Bunch of meta-humans makes the new Flash nothing special and the new show seems like a better produced version of "Power Rangers", full of monsters and empty action. Stupid and boring. The old show is more down to earth, more realistic, with more convincing situations and relationships and a decent dose of healthy humor. It has a much better atmosphere and I have to improve its rating once again.
8/10
I finished the first and only season and I'm sorry that there's no more. But it may be a good thing, because they would probably spoil it in time. I collected impressions and, although it is very far from being one of the best shows of all time (maybe strong seven), in my opinion, this is the perfect example of how comic-book adaptation should look like. Shoulder to shoulder with Batman from the previous year, within the genre I rate it a perfect ten.
8,5/10
7/10
Plots are completely different. Beside a few names and the fact that Flash is a speedster who fights crime, they have almost nothing in common. The way Barry becomes Flash is completely different and "same" characters have completely different characteristics and mutual relationships. While in the new Flash Iris is a black journalist and his adopted sister in whom he is secretly in love, in old one she is a white artist and the girl who leaves him. The new Flash is based on his father being convicted for the murder of his mother and Flash trying to find a way to free him and punish the real murderer, but in the old Flash both of his parents are alive and well and he has cop brother who dies. From base to details these two shows are completely different. I have no idea which version is adapted from the comics, if any, but in my opinion, the plot of the new Flash is too complicated and in combination with modern technology, effects and production it totally lacks the soul of comic-book.
7,5/10
As I watch more episodes I like this more and more and I have less and less will to ever finish the new version. I just realized that the same actor plays Flash in the old and Flashes father in the new show. Beside John Wesley Shipp, at least four other actors appear in both shows. Amanda Pays, who plays the leading female role in the old Flash, role divided to Wells and Caitlin in the new version, 25 years later reappears in the same role. Alex Desert, whose role in the old version is the closest thing to Cisco from the new one, also reprises his role in a few episodes of the new Flash, same as Vito D'Ambrosio as Mayor Bellows and Luke Skywalker as Trickster. In the old version Barry became Flash after he was hit by lightning, so he's the only meta-human there, while villains are mad, genius and backed up with some serious technology, but still just humans. Bunch of meta-humans makes the new Flash nothing special and the new show seems like a better produced version of "Power Rangers", full of monsters and empty action. Stupid and boring. The old show is more down to earth, more realistic, with more convincing situations and relationships and a decent dose of healthy humor. It has a much better atmosphere and I have to improve its rating once again.
8/10
I finished the first and only season and I'm sorry that there's no more. But it may be a good thing, because they would probably spoil it in time. I collected impressions and, although it is very far from being one of the best shows of all time (maybe strong seven), in my opinion, this is the perfect example of how comic-book adaptation should look like. Shoulder to shoulder with Batman from the previous year, within the genre I rate it a perfect ten.
8,5/10
A product of its time worth watching
TooKakkoiiforYou_3219 July 2020
Simply because Barry Allen is much more Likeable in this version than in the Snooze-inducing perfect work-and-church comic one. Maybe the one on the screen is not really Barry but Wally? Notice also the first apparition of Mark Hamill's Joker (here named the Trickster) and the Harley Quinn look-a-like character towards the end of the series. I suppose Paul Dini and Bruce Timm had to have some influences outside the woman they speak of in the afterwards of the Mad Love TP...
Beautiful, nostalgic, gone way too soon
Movieguys19806 September 2016
Warning: Spoilers
WARNING MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS....
This show takes me back to the days long before CGI and Superheroes were very uncommon especially on Network Prime time. The show ran a full season before it was tragically cancelled due to low ratings mainly due to the Gulf War and airing against The Simpsons that was highly popular at the time... The show itself revolves around CSI tech Barry Allen, perfectly portrayed by actor John Wesley Shipp. To me Shipp doesn't get the credit he deserves. He really is one of those actors like Bruce Campbell and I would love to see him more involved in the upcoming episodes of the New CW Flash or it's sister shows.
Shipp is joined by the beautiful Amanda Pays who plays scientist Tina Magee who learns of Barry's super powers and helps him become the crime fighting superhero The Flash. The F/X were very impressive and still hold up to the day. The show had a mixture of tones: everything from 1960's Batman to the darker Keaton Batman. The setting was set with a mixture of the present and the past. It had a very pulpy feel to it. The stories were very engaging and The Flash was always plenty visible in his maroon suit which I don't think they will ever top.
There are many famous guest stars along the way including Tim Thomerson, Mark Hamill, and of course before he was famous Bryan Cranston. This show is a true piece of nostalgia that we would never get today, it's just a shame we never got another season or at the least TV movies.
This show takes me back to the days long before CGI and Superheroes were very uncommon especially on Network Prime time. The show ran a full season before it was tragically cancelled due to low ratings mainly due to the Gulf War and airing against The Simpsons that was highly popular at the time... The show itself revolves around CSI tech Barry Allen, perfectly portrayed by actor John Wesley Shipp. To me Shipp doesn't get the credit he deserves. He really is one of those actors like Bruce Campbell and I would love to see him more involved in the upcoming episodes of the New CW Flash or it's sister shows.
Shipp is joined by the beautiful Amanda Pays who plays scientist Tina Magee who learns of Barry's super powers and helps him become the crime fighting superhero The Flash. The F/X were very impressive and still hold up to the day. The show had a mixture of tones: everything from 1960's Batman to the darker Keaton Batman. The setting was set with a mixture of the present and the past. It had a very pulpy feel to it. The stories were very engaging and The Flash was always plenty visible in his maroon suit which I don't think they will ever top.
There are many famous guest stars along the way including Tim Thomerson, Mark Hamill, and of course before he was famous Bryan Cranston. This show is a true piece of nostalgia that we would never get today, it's just a shame we never got another season or at the least TV movies.
A bit too dark, and I don't mean the scripts
VetteRanger19 January 2023
Batman (with Michael Keaton) was a tremendous success in 1989, and evidently the producers of this series thought that dark look was the reason, and that it should carry over. To me, that was a mistake, and it holds back my enjoyment of the series.
I thought John Wesley Shipp did a great job as the Flash, and I thought it was classy that the more recent version of the series included him. (Unfortunately, The CW went woke with all their superhero series and I had to quit them all in disgust a few years ago).
The 1990 special effects team did a great job with this series, and the Flash in action looks entirely appropriate.
I thought John Wesley Shipp did a great job as the Flash, and I thought it was classy that the more recent version of the series included him. (Unfortunately, The CW went woke with all their superhero series and I had to quit them all in disgust a few years ago).
The 1990 special effects team did a great job with this series, and the Flash in action looks entirely appropriate.
A Great Origin
thecoolestmike5 September 2001
The Pilot episode for the Flash TV series was the origin and was done very well. Barry Allen a scientist is working in a lab with many chemicals when lightning strikes through the window in which a small explosion occurs. What is so great about the origin is where he begins to discover how fast he is and how he learns to adapt to his new superpower. The discovering of his superspeed was done in a couple of semi-humorous situations. A scientist/physician (Amanda Pays -with big beautiful eyes) performs tests on him and helps him control his new found speed. She also gives him his costume so his clothes don't rip apart when he is running very fast. The subplot was fair to okay with The Flash catching a motorcycle gang who tries to take control of the city and killed his brother. - The rest of the series was up and down with good & bad scripts. Also the writers didn't do enough to build on the chemistry of Barry Allen and Christina McGee that was laid out in the pilot episode. John Wesley Shipp was an excellent choice to portray the Flash. The costume and the effects in the series were cool. The pilot can be found on video and the series has been occasionally shown on the SCI-FI channel.
A pretty good series that was cancelled too soon
terp_927 September 2000
There are 3 TV shows that remind me of my college days and that time period: Twin Peaks, Red Dwarf, and the Flash. I was an avid viewer of The Flash since I was a fan of the DC Comic superheroes growing up. I thought the special effects were terrific, and I didn't have as big a problem with John Wesley Shipp being cast as Barry Allen as others did. I liked Amanda Pays portrayal as a pretty and intelligent scientist who assisted the Flash with his crimefighting.
Unfortunately, the combination of the expensive special effects and low ratings led to the show's cancellation after only one season, which was too bad. Seems like nowadays TV shows aren't given much of an opportunity to gain viewers if they don't get high ratings at once.
Unfortunately, the combination of the expensive special effects and low ratings led to the show's cancellation after only one season, which was too bad. Seems like nowadays TV shows aren't given much of an opportunity to gain viewers if they don't get high ratings at once.
Rushing Hero
hellraiser713 February 2019
This is one of my favorite live action comic book adaptation shows of all time and it's another childhood gem. Back then I never even heard of "The Flash" let alone any of the other roster in the DC verse. Seeing this show it really blew me away because it's given me another favorite superhero in my roster and this show didn't come a moment too soon as the 90's were a bit of a gold age for the comic book films that were just starting their assent from the live action films "Batman", "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles", "The Rocketeer" etc. so why not have another DC superhero shown the spotlight and given his own TV show "The Flash" was a good choice.
This show really had a lot going for it which I don't say for a lot of live action comic book adaptations shows, as most of them don't always have the same staying power as the source material I read, as some of them don't always meet certain expectations I hold. This show is one of those cases where it does meet my expectations or at least comes close which is all I can really ask for a live action adaptation or any TV show in general.
The production value is impressive, I felt this was one of the prime examples of not just doing a live action comic book adaption right but also any TV show right when you put effort or extra effort for that manner, it really showed that the creators truly cared about what their creating. I really love the look of Central City as it's goes for a sort of art deco look which is like the one in the film "Batman". I like that here we see a sort of alternate America where it looks like the present but there is a mix of some of the 1920-40 America as you see certain car models that could be at a car museum or convention, as we as certain things people where, let alone weapons where in some episodes some criminals are shooting Tommy guns. Certain mural art that you would see along with some vibrant colorful lighting in places. It also gives the show a noir quality, showing as color and fascinating a place it is, it's also a dark world that has danger hiding in every shadow.
I really like the running effects, they really give out the illusion of super speed well. Despite the effects in the 2015 version of "The Flash" I still like the first effect a lot better as it's a little more practical, cinematography is very good as well as we sometimes get his view point. I remember watching those sequences as a kid I would sometimes pretend I'm running at super speed that shot was that cool made you feel like you the viewer were "The Flash". Some of the things he does with the super speed are cool and would be very handy, like the little thing of being able to read a book at super speed, yeah wish I could read that fast get more books done that way. But I also like the Red color and multiple movement visual effects, but best of all that sound of super speed which is just music to my ears. Even like the design of the costume as it really looks like it came straight off the comics and I wouldn't want it any other way.
The music in the show is also great as it's done by one of my favorite composers Danny Elfman, whom in the 90's was just on a roll. This show has one of favorite theme songs and super hero themes I've ever heard which I feel is something that is sorely missing in most comic book TV shows and movies; this song just signifies "The Flash" just as the themes for "Superman" and "Batman" signify their heroes.
John Wesley Shipp is great as the Flash he is the Flash much as Christopher Reeve is "Superman", Peter Weller is "Robocop", and Karl Urban is "Judge Dredd", really like the look of the actor as he kind of looks like Bruce Campbell but isn't, defiantly has the same chin (Bruce Campbell as a DC verse character that would have been something). He just fits like a glove in this role, sure there have a been a couple of other live action versions (Grant Justin is my second favorite version) but this is my favorite version as he is the first and still the best in my book. He's a likeable guy that is a CSI detective by day and superhero by night which I like that concept of being a hero in both the day and night time. Has reserved charisma out of the suit but also sharp charisma with the suit.
Really love that he's really smart which to me is "The Flash's" true strength showing that even with all the super powers and abilities human intelligence is still the best weapon. But also I like how he reacts in coping with having the power along with dealing with the supervillain that come to town, it feels like how any other person would react; yeah I'd think if I ever saw anyone dressed up like "The Trickster" I'd think their off the rails or have taken cosplay too far. Or if I at first had the same powers as "The Flash" I'd be a little scared but also amazed at the same time.
Other supporting characters are solid like Julio (Alex Desert) Barry's best friend he's a helpful character but also really like how he's concern for both Barry's social life and well-being; in a way he's sort of the equivalent of Cisco from the 2015 version sort of.
Another is Tina played well by Amanda Pays another underrated actress, I really like how she is Barry's number two as both help each other understand how to control and even push the power past their extent. I like how she helps provide intelligence but also scientific knowledge into whatever situation their dealing with which is very useful, and sometimes even gadgets for the Flash for him to get ahead of his enemies. Also, possible would be significant other had the show gone on longer.
Megan Lockhart (Joyce Hyser) despite only in a few episode I also like as she is hot with persona to boot, she's a sharp private detective that can hold her own against danger, she's also is a bit of a significant other to Barry; I can't help but think this should have been Iris West some of the characteristics were there; yeah we did have an Iris but she was only in the pilot and that version didn't really feel like Iris to me, so if you watch this show you can always pretend this character is Iris if you want. Fun fact most of the cast in this show showed up in the 2015 version of "The Flash".
Most importantly the action and story. The action is good, as it's well choregraphed and really look and feel like comic book battles and action come to life. I like that it's not just all fisticuffs but also a battle of wits as there is science involved.
The story is pretty good, some of the stories were written by late great comic book writer Howard Chaykin. Despite serious it's also slightly humorous, the show knows how to have fun with itself but also knows when the comedy ends. I like how in the show they incorporate most of the famous rogues from the series which I feel is something sorely missing in most comic book shows including the 2015 version.
My favorite rogue and the one that truly stands out for me is The Trickster played well by Mark Hamell. Mark was just a blast in the role, I can tell he was having fun doing it; in a way this was a dry run for him as this was a couple of years before he got to play his most famous voice acting role as "The Joker" in "Batman the Animated Series" along with the "Batman Arkham" video game trilogy. I really like how he is both funny but also very menacing at the same time due to his unpredictable psychotic nature. He's a worthy foe for the Flash as he is true to his name but also with is persona can flip on a dime at any moment which makes it all the trickier to anticipate his next move.
It sucks that this show didn't get any extra millage and track, it really disappointed me as a kid when we didn't get another season there really was so much more that could have been done. Even if they couldn't get another season, he could of came straight to the silver screen which would have been awesome, DC in the 90's could have had two successful film franchise "Batman" and "The Flash" side by side, sadly they passed up the opportunity. It would be awesome if DC Comics did a comic series based on this 90's tv series, I see no reason this shouldn't happen they've already done "Batman 66" and "Wonder Woman 74" so why not "Flash 90" it's a thought anyway.
This is a vintage live action comic book classic worth rushing to, as it's got plenty of mileage for fun.
Rating: 4 stars
This show really had a lot going for it which I don't say for a lot of live action comic book adaptations shows, as most of them don't always have the same staying power as the source material I read, as some of them don't always meet certain expectations I hold. This show is one of those cases where it does meet my expectations or at least comes close which is all I can really ask for a live action adaptation or any TV show in general.
The production value is impressive, I felt this was one of the prime examples of not just doing a live action comic book adaption right but also any TV show right when you put effort or extra effort for that manner, it really showed that the creators truly cared about what their creating. I really love the look of Central City as it's goes for a sort of art deco look which is like the one in the film "Batman". I like that here we see a sort of alternate America where it looks like the present but there is a mix of some of the 1920-40 America as you see certain car models that could be at a car museum or convention, as we as certain things people where, let alone weapons where in some episodes some criminals are shooting Tommy guns. Certain mural art that you would see along with some vibrant colorful lighting in places. It also gives the show a noir quality, showing as color and fascinating a place it is, it's also a dark world that has danger hiding in every shadow.
I really like the running effects, they really give out the illusion of super speed well. Despite the effects in the 2015 version of "The Flash" I still like the first effect a lot better as it's a little more practical, cinematography is very good as well as we sometimes get his view point. I remember watching those sequences as a kid I would sometimes pretend I'm running at super speed that shot was that cool made you feel like you the viewer were "The Flash". Some of the things he does with the super speed are cool and would be very handy, like the little thing of being able to read a book at super speed, yeah wish I could read that fast get more books done that way. But I also like the Red color and multiple movement visual effects, but best of all that sound of super speed which is just music to my ears. Even like the design of the costume as it really looks like it came straight off the comics and I wouldn't want it any other way.
The music in the show is also great as it's done by one of my favorite composers Danny Elfman, whom in the 90's was just on a roll. This show has one of favorite theme songs and super hero themes I've ever heard which I feel is something that is sorely missing in most comic book TV shows and movies; this song just signifies "The Flash" just as the themes for "Superman" and "Batman" signify their heroes.
John Wesley Shipp is great as the Flash he is the Flash much as Christopher Reeve is "Superman", Peter Weller is "Robocop", and Karl Urban is "Judge Dredd", really like the look of the actor as he kind of looks like Bruce Campbell but isn't, defiantly has the same chin (Bruce Campbell as a DC verse character that would have been something). He just fits like a glove in this role, sure there have a been a couple of other live action versions (Grant Justin is my second favorite version) but this is my favorite version as he is the first and still the best in my book. He's a likeable guy that is a CSI detective by day and superhero by night which I like that concept of being a hero in both the day and night time. Has reserved charisma out of the suit but also sharp charisma with the suit.
Really love that he's really smart which to me is "The Flash's" true strength showing that even with all the super powers and abilities human intelligence is still the best weapon. But also I like how he reacts in coping with having the power along with dealing with the supervillain that come to town, it feels like how any other person would react; yeah I'd think if I ever saw anyone dressed up like "The Trickster" I'd think their off the rails or have taken cosplay too far. Or if I at first had the same powers as "The Flash" I'd be a little scared but also amazed at the same time.
Other supporting characters are solid like Julio (Alex Desert) Barry's best friend he's a helpful character but also really like how he's concern for both Barry's social life and well-being; in a way he's sort of the equivalent of Cisco from the 2015 version sort of.
Another is Tina played well by Amanda Pays another underrated actress, I really like how she is Barry's number two as both help each other understand how to control and even push the power past their extent. I like how she helps provide intelligence but also scientific knowledge into whatever situation their dealing with which is very useful, and sometimes even gadgets for the Flash for him to get ahead of his enemies. Also, possible would be significant other had the show gone on longer.
Megan Lockhart (Joyce Hyser) despite only in a few episode I also like as she is hot with persona to boot, she's a sharp private detective that can hold her own against danger, she's also is a bit of a significant other to Barry; I can't help but think this should have been Iris West some of the characteristics were there; yeah we did have an Iris but she was only in the pilot and that version didn't really feel like Iris to me, so if you watch this show you can always pretend this character is Iris if you want. Fun fact most of the cast in this show showed up in the 2015 version of "The Flash".
Most importantly the action and story. The action is good, as it's well choregraphed and really look and feel like comic book battles and action come to life. I like that it's not just all fisticuffs but also a battle of wits as there is science involved.
The story is pretty good, some of the stories were written by late great comic book writer Howard Chaykin. Despite serious it's also slightly humorous, the show knows how to have fun with itself but also knows when the comedy ends. I like how in the show they incorporate most of the famous rogues from the series which I feel is something sorely missing in most comic book shows including the 2015 version.
My favorite rogue and the one that truly stands out for me is The Trickster played well by Mark Hamell. Mark was just a blast in the role, I can tell he was having fun doing it; in a way this was a dry run for him as this was a couple of years before he got to play his most famous voice acting role as "The Joker" in "Batman the Animated Series" along with the "Batman Arkham" video game trilogy. I really like how he is both funny but also very menacing at the same time due to his unpredictable psychotic nature. He's a worthy foe for the Flash as he is true to his name but also with is persona can flip on a dime at any moment which makes it all the trickier to anticipate his next move.
It sucks that this show didn't get any extra millage and track, it really disappointed me as a kid when we didn't get another season there really was so much more that could have been done. Even if they couldn't get another season, he could of came straight to the silver screen which would have been awesome, DC in the 90's could have had two successful film franchise "Batman" and "The Flash" side by side, sadly they passed up the opportunity. It would be awesome if DC Comics did a comic series based on this 90's tv series, I see no reason this shouldn't happen they've already done "Batman 66" and "Wonder Woman 74" so why not "Flash 90" it's a thought anyway.
This is a vintage live action comic book classic worth rushing to, as it's got plenty of mileage for fun.
Rating: 4 stars
Actually for a television show it was a really good comic book adaptation.
Aaron137513 September 2009
This show only lasted one season for some reason, probably low ratings, but it was just so entertaining. I was never really much into the comic of Flash, but I knew of him mainly due to the many justice league shows that came on prior to the launch of this show, which no doubt was made due to the huge success that was the original "Batman" movie. The show actually did a good job with its story and it really did a good job with the costume of the Flash. I see there is a movie of the Flash coming out in 2011, but I highly doubt they could do much better on the suit than they did here. There were some super villains in the show, but once again this was the weak point as it is for many comic book television shows. They never really add them very well to the series, the main bad guy I remember from this series was a guy that was in the pilot episode that was really just a leader of a gang of thugs. There were attempts at the more super villain types, but other than Mark Hamill who played someone called the Trickster there was nothing that really stands out in my mind. Of course, other than Batman and Superman villains I have a hard time naming any others for the other DC comic characters other than Sinestro for the Green Lantern. Like I said though they did a fairly good job with the story, it had some humorous moments, but nothing that would get as silly as say the original "Batman" show starring Adam West. It would have the tone set forth in the first Batman movie instead. In the end though it was just another show to get canned way to early, never really getting a chance, my guess is because it cost more than your average television show.
A fun series...
JoeB1315 February 2011
Warning: Spoilers
The sad thing is, this series had a lot of potential, but was mishandled in many ways.
Okay, the Flash isn't Superman or Batman. He's a second-tier hero. And oddly enough, the network went with the Barry Allen Flash, even though in the comics, Allen was pushing up the metaphorical daisies at that point. (To paraphrase Monty Python, "He got better!")
This series only got the green light because of the success of Tim Burton's Batman movie. In terms of storytelling and style, it was very faithful to the genre, and it looked really good. Schipp was good in the role, treating the material seriously when a lot of actors wouldn't have treated it like a farce.
For the hardcore fanboys, they didn't dip into the Flash's "Rogue's Gallery" of adversaries until late in the series, by which point preemption by Gulf War coverage had wrecked the show's ability to build a fanbase.
A lot better than the tiresome show like the re-imagined BSG which dragged on for years after anyone stopped caring.
Okay, the Flash isn't Superman or Batman. He's a second-tier hero. And oddly enough, the network went with the Barry Allen Flash, even though in the comics, Allen was pushing up the metaphorical daisies at that point. (To paraphrase Monty Python, "He got better!")
This series only got the green light because of the success of Tim Burton's Batman movie. In terms of storytelling and style, it was very faithful to the genre, and it looked really good. Schipp was good in the role, treating the material seriously when a lot of actors wouldn't have treated it like a farce.
For the hardcore fanboys, they didn't dip into the Flash's "Rogue's Gallery" of adversaries until late in the series, by which point preemption by Gulf War coverage had wrecked the show's ability to build a fanbase.
A lot better than the tiresome show like the re-imagined BSG which dragged on for years after anyone stopped caring.
:-)
mattkratz29 December 2011
It's a shame that this brilliant series only lasted one series. The pilot episode set it up well, and the special effects were great! The cast worked well together too. A police crime scene worker was involved in a freak accident where lightning struck the lab where he worked, spilling chemicals all over him, and he became "The Flash," a superhero who could run at blinding speeds. The episodes revolved around his crusades to fight villains and crimes, and his relations with his co-workers and a lady who developed him into The Flash. I think the pilot was great, and several episodes were well done. John Wesley Shipp was well cast in the lead. Check this out if you get the chance-it might be on netflix. I thoroughly enjoyed it! *** out of ****
A godawful, pathetic butchering of the character
busporilmo8 April 2020
ABYSMAL show in literally EVERY conceivable way.
The pitch was literally "Batman 89 made huge money, so plagiarize EXACTLY THAT with a guy in a red suit!!! Who cares if The Flash character is literally NOTHING like Batman, just copy it!!!! Even rip-off the Danny Elfman music score, no one will notice!!!". LOL Absolutely EMBARRASSING. Gain taste you laughably delusional, loser geekoids.
The pitch was literally "Batman 89 made huge money, so plagiarize EXACTLY THAT with a guy in a red suit!!! Who cares if The Flash character is literally NOTHING like Batman, just copy it!!!! Even rip-off the Danny Elfman music score, no one will notice!!!". LOL Absolutely EMBARRASSING. Gain taste you laughably delusional, loser geekoids.
A great TV series, just a little before it's time...
zenogais17626 February 2005
The Flash is one of DC comics most endearing heroes for this simple reason; even though he has been given a tremendous gift of super-speed, he is still only human. Superman always could do the incredible tasks of saving the world and managing to rescue Lois Lane from the bad guys... The Flash is always trying to beat the clock. Batman makes detective work look easy, The Flash spends the majority of his day painstakingly analyzing evidence in a lab. Imagine one of the crew of CSI spending the whole day collecting evidence and then trying to stop villains in whatever time he had left of his day: all of this while working in a police station that is hunting down his alter-ego! For those who were not comic book fans, this series is still worth a look. It was ahead of it's time in many ways: X-men, Spiderman, and the upcoming Batman Begins all focus in on the people behind the masks and the costumes to reveal the true character of the Hero.
The Flash Series had a hero who was fast, but not too fast. He had weaknesses and limitations and problems with his love life. And no matter how fast he was he never seemed to be on time! Memorable performances from John Wesley Shipp, Amanda Pays, and Mark Hamill as the Trickster.
Budgetary reasons were the reason the show had to shut down, which was unfortunate. The show was definitely hitting a good stride between good characters and great plots. There was a large body of rogues to choose from, and I personally loved the adaptations of Captain Cold and the Mirror Master. No need for flashy outfits for these guys, the writing and action was so stylish that there was no need to put these two in ridiculous colored spandex.
If you can find either the Pilot or the Trickster episodes to rent, give them a look. You will be able to see where the movies of today were able to prosper for the ideas that either flew or fell in this show.
The Flash Series had a hero who was fast, but not too fast. He had weaknesses and limitations and problems with his love life. And no matter how fast he was he never seemed to be on time! Memorable performances from John Wesley Shipp, Amanda Pays, and Mark Hamill as the Trickster.
Budgetary reasons were the reason the show had to shut down, which was unfortunate. The show was definitely hitting a good stride between good characters and great plots. There was a large body of rogues to choose from, and I personally loved the adaptations of Captain Cold and the Mirror Master. No need for flashy outfits for these guys, the writing and action was so stylish that there was no need to put these two in ridiculous colored spandex.
If you can find either the Pilot or the Trickster episodes to rent, give them a look. You will be able to see where the movies of today were able to prosper for the ideas that either flew or fell in this show.
Best Show of 1990 hands down
mjlower-2899123 April 2023
Growing up I loved this show!
In my generation of television and movies growing up, we had The Six Million Dollar Man, Wonder Woman, Captain Marvel and Isis hour, The Incredible Hulk, and reruns of Batman (1966).
Which were wonderful, don't misunderstand.
In the 1980's we had The Greatest American Hero... look basically it was very cheesy, but it was bread for the masses! We were starving for live action Superheroes!
Then came The Flash!
Seriously, while I rewatch the series I enjoy it more every watch. I just recently bought the DVD set of the full series.
I just think that this generation of superhero enthusiasts are spoiled. They don't know what the industry went through to achieve these fantastic digital effects. Sometimes I can't tell what is digital and what is not. And I love it.
Anyway, thank you for reading my ridiculous and humble review.
In my generation of television and movies growing up, we had The Six Million Dollar Man, Wonder Woman, Captain Marvel and Isis hour, The Incredible Hulk, and reruns of Batman (1966).
Which were wonderful, don't misunderstand.
In the 1980's we had The Greatest American Hero... look basically it was very cheesy, but it was bread for the masses! We were starving for live action Superheroes!
Then came The Flash!
Seriously, while I rewatch the series I enjoy it more every watch. I just recently bought the DVD set of the full series.
I just think that this generation of superhero enthusiasts are spoiled. They don't know what the industry went through to achieve these fantastic digital effects. Sometimes I can't tell what is digital and what is not. And I love it.
Anyway, thank you for reading my ridiculous and humble review.
Meet The Flash In The Flesh
strong-122-4788856 February 2016
You know, when it comes to getting myself, even marginally, excited over watching yet another superhero TV program (yawn!) - I certainly have to say that, at this point, I've become totally immune (as well as blasé) about it all.
But, of course, with that said - I do want you to know that I honestly did try to give The Flash (from 1990) at least the benefit of the doubt just to see if this show could, indeed, spark within me that old interest which I once held for the likes of DC Comics' superheroes.
But, unfortunately, The Flash (in all of its "superhero" predictability) quickly turned out to be just the "same-old/same-old" crime-fighting business right from the word "go".
Anyway - Here are 2 things that totally killed me about The Flash character - (1) The absolutely laughable muscle-suit that he wore. (Spare me!) - (2) Through all of his amazing, super-accelerated physical exertion, never once did The Flash ever break out into even the slightest sweat, at all. (Ha! Give me a break, already!)
But, of course, with that said - I do want you to know that I honestly did try to give The Flash (from 1990) at least the benefit of the doubt just to see if this show could, indeed, spark within me that old interest which I once held for the likes of DC Comics' superheroes.
But, unfortunately, The Flash (in all of its "superhero" predictability) quickly turned out to be just the "same-old/same-old" crime-fighting business right from the word "go".
Anyway - Here are 2 things that totally killed me about The Flash character - (1) The absolutely laughable muscle-suit that he wore. (Spare me!) - (2) Through all of his amazing, super-accelerated physical exertion, never once did The Flash ever break out into even the slightest sweat, at all. (Ha! Give me a break, already!)
The Flash ~ too fast for idle minds
Trent-553 August 2005
Simply said, this series was too advanced for the simple minds watching TV when it aired back in the 90's. The sets were past, present and futuristic giving it a non-era look. The acting was very good and the costumes, sets and writing were added bonuses each week. This series ran for 22 episodes and included an incredible two parter with Mark Hamill playing the Trickster, a role he seemed destined to play. He made the Joker look like Mr. Rogers. David Cassidy, Angela Bassett, M. Emmet Walsh and even Bill(y) Mumy from the original Lost in Space series made guest appearances as NON-forgettable characters. There is positive word that this series will be making it's way to a DVD box set soon. cut & paste this to read more - http://www.tvshowsondvd.com/newsitem.cfm?NewsID=3816
This is something you can watch with your family and be entertained by great writing and visual stimulation.
This is something you can watch with your family and be entertained by great writing and visual stimulation.
not too terrible
danieldwilkinson28 October 2023
I took a long while to finish this, but in the end enjoyed it. I didnt care too much for the self contained stories per episode, but i guess its to be expected often with old shows like this...which i guess is fine. My favorite episodes were: captain cold, nightshade, both trickster episodes, twin streaks, and alpha. I tend to do a little research on these characters comic book counter parts when they are introduced, and i found it interesting that the only nightshade i found was female. Maybe i didnt look hard enough? Either way as i said still enjoyable enough, but kind of glad it didnt last more then one season.
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