Flash is a hero that is not well known. He is one of many heroes to have a dark back story, but what makes him special is how he deals with it. Barry Allen, our hero, chooses to give in to his big heart instead of turning to vengeance.

        Barry’s mother was murdered when he was young and his father was convicted to the murder. He has not forgotten this fateful day. Barry is determined to prove his father is innocent and the police have the wrong man. Not yet having powers, he is an ordinary guy that works as a forensics scientist for the police, until he is struck by lightening and gains superpowers.

     With his father in prison, his best friend Iris’s father, Joe West, took Barry in. The only father figure he has known his whole life, Joe does not give up on Barry and considers him a son. Joe, a single father after the death of his wife,  raises Barry and Iris on his own. While Barry works for the police, Iris goes to work as a reporter, waiting for her big story. She thinks of Barry just as her nerdy best friend with a big heart. She is similar to Lois Lane in this comic. Her character’s obliviousness holds her back. Iris writes stories about The Flash and has rooftop meetings with him. She feels Starling City needs to know the hero who is responsible for making the city better. She does not understand why The Flash does not want credit for his heroic deeds, not realizing it is her best friend, Barry.

       Cisco Ramon is Barry’s sidekick. He helps Barry come to terms with his powers. He also helps him figure out what to do with his new power. Cisco is witty and a science nerd like Barry.  Cisco is obsessed with naming the villains Barry faces. He has Barry’s back no matter what.  Cisco works at S.T.A.R labs (Barry’s hideout) as a research scientist for Harrison Wells. Cisco uses the technology available to help Barry control his powers and develop them.

       Caitlyn Snow is also a research scientist at S.T.A.R labs. She is also Barry’s sidekick. Caitlyn and Cisco are best friends. She helps him accept his powers and use it for the greater good. She is a smart fearless woman not  afraid to speak her mind. She certainly isn’t afraid to tell Barry or Cisco off when they are in the wrong. She is quirky and awkward like Barry.

       Harrison Wells is a billionaire and a science wiz. He is handicapped and surprisingly knows a lot about Barry’s powers. Harrison Wells is responsible for the accident that gave Barry his powers. He created a machine called the “particle accelerator.” When it is activated, it malfunctions and strikes Barry with a bolt of lightning. He arranges for Barry to get the best help for his recovery. He later arranges for Cisco and Caitlyn to help him.

      The Flash is one of my top favorite shows. I love that Barry has a dark past and keeps a positive attitude. The Flash is different from Gotham in this way. While both shows are very exciting to watch and are hilarious, The Flash is a lighter show  and does not deal with dark themes like Gotham does. Barry is dedicated to keeping people safe. Gotham has not gotten to the theme of saving the people yet.  Gotham is a show that shows the heroes and villains grow into their destinies. The Flash dives right into the story line.

     The characters tie the story together for me in the Flash. Their quirky personalities will never leave you bored, and the action is packed and constantly keeps you on your toes. If you are interested in superheroes and want a good show to sink your teeth into check it out. See you next time- in a flash.