The Flash: Season 1, Episode 15: Out of Time

     Yes! This is the episode I’ve been waiting for and I’m sure I’m not alone. They’re pushing the content a bit far for a first season, but it is making for some very interesting viewing. They’re skipping a little forward with some of the plot points, but its good material. This show has done an astonishing job of introducing characters. The way Cisco names them is kind of corny, but it works and there’s no question to who their comic counterparts are.

I like the way this show has shown the versatility and possibilities of the world it shares with Arrow. Before it seemed like they were doing everything in their power to stay realistic. It’s also true to Barry Allen’s character. I really like how they’re doing things, with only one exception: Iris.

I get the whole “will they won’t they” thing, but the pacing seems a little weird. Considering the developments in this episode, it seems a bit soon. I understand that, unlike most other superheroes (those guys are pretty promiscuous), he doesn’t really have a bunch of love interests in the comics. If they get together this soon, it could be pretty good and very unique for this kind of show.

That being said, where’s her sister? If Iris doesn’t have a sister that means there can’t be a Wally West! Fans of the comics understand why that’s a problem. If this show has plans to last long they’re going to want access to that character. Also, if Wally does show up, I’m sure it’ll stir the pot since he’ll have to at least be partially black. Also it’s weird that they’ve decided to make Linda Park a love interest for Barry, when she marries Wally in the comics. She should be much younger. Is Barry that short on love interests?

The love square including Eddie wasn’t terrible, but it was by far the weak point go the episode. It slowed down the action and took time away from more that could’ve happened. I’m sure it was done purposely though, they need more material for the rest of the season. I’m pretty sure they’re going to end the season with a wrap of the Reverse Flash situation and put in a lead-in/teaser for Grodd being the big bad next season.

The revelation of who Dr. Wells truly is was pure magic! Cisco’s subplot was very well done, we see his serious scientist side every now and then, but he seemed truly disturbed by the possibility of what his mentor really was. It didn’t end well for him, but I’m sure they’ll bring him back after seeing what they did with the ending here.

Hopefully they won’t lean on Barry’s time manipulation too much, it can definitely hurt the future of the show. If they’re wise, they’ll explain it as him being pushed past his limits because of Joe being in danger and his love for Iris having its moment. In all likelihood, he’ll handle things differently since he’s in the past and none of those things will come to pass a second time.

Seeing Liam McIntyre as Mark Mardon was also interesting. I liked seeing him as a villain, but he was pretty underwritten as always. I think he’s a pretty good actor, but he was out-shined by his predecessor in Spartacus and the less we say about “The Legend of Hercules” the better. Hopefully we’ll get to see more of the immensely powerful Weather Wizard’s personality in next week’s episode.

Jonathan Jones

Jonathan Thomas Jones is a speculative fiction author and founder of geekhavenreviews.com. He has been passionate about all things geek for his entire life. See more about him at jonathanthomasjones.com and follow him on twitter @jtgloryjones.