The Flash is without a doubt one of DC’s most popular superheroes. Despite this, the character has yet to make an appearance on the big screen – save for a split-second cameo in The LEGO Movie. However, with the DC Cinematic Universe coming together, it’s only a matter of time for the Scarlet Speedster to make his presence felt. Flash is rumored to be making a cameo in 2016’s Batman vs. Superman, and will most likely appear in the planned Justice League movie. A solo film afterwards is also a strong possibility, despite The CW’s Flash television series premiering this fall. As for who should play Barry Allen in his cinematic debut? I list five options below.
#5 – Grant Gustin
After his likable performance as Barry Allen on Arrow, Gustin will reprise the role in The CW’s Flash spin-off. Currently, there are no plans to connect the two shows to WB/DC’s cinematic universe, but it would be ideal to do so, in my opinion. By the time Justice League rolls around, Gustin’s Flash will likely be a familiar face to fans, making it logical to bring him and Stephen Amell’s Arrow to the big screen. However, there have been complaints of Gustin being too young and inexperienced for the role, especially for a movie version. So, it’d make sense to bring in a more recognizable actor for such as popular superhero as The Flash. Still, you can certainly do much worse than Gustin, who has made his enthusiasm for the character known.
#4 – Sam Claflin
After supporting roles in blockbusters such as The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, it’s only a matter of time before Claflin lands a part in a comic book movie. So why Flash? Well, Claflin is a solid young actor, and he can certainly pull off Barry Allen. His physique and blonde hair don’t hurt either, as well as the fact that he’s one of the fan favorite choices for the character. Plus, thanks to his role in Catching Fire, fangirls’ interest in The Flash will likely increase if he’s cast. Claflin is a rising star in Hollywood, so it’d make sense to have him play a superhero like Flash sooner or later.
#3 – Garrett Hedlund
Another frequently named candidate for The Flash, it’s a surprise that Garrett Hedlund hasn’t played a superhero yet. He starred in 2010’s Tron: Legacy, and will return to blockbuster fare in next summer’s Pan. The latter is produced by Warner Bros., so it wouldn’t be surprising to see the studio interested in casting Hedlund as a DC character if this film succeeds. Beyond that, Hedlund is a decent actor who can headline his own franchise, and his looks are appropriate for the Scarlet Speedster. The only thing potentially stopping this from happening is that Hedlund is still contracted for another Tron movie, even though it’s unknown when filming starts. For now, however, Hedlund would be an ideal and great choice to play The Flash.
#2 – Chris Pine
Once again, it’s surprising that Pine has not joined a comic book movie yet. He was rumored to be up for Green Lantern before Ryan Reynolds was cast, and he is currently headlining the rebooted Star Trek franchise. While the latter has been very successful, Pine’s name wasn’t enough to keep Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit from being a box office disappointment. Despite this, Pine would be a fantastic choice to play The Flash. He has been my personal pick for Barry Allen for years, due to his solid acting chops, blockbuster experience, and spot-on looks. While he currently has several films on his schedule, hopefully, he will make room for The Flash when the time comes.
#1 – Scott Porter
And now, for my top choice. While Pine has been my favorite for The Flash for some time, in some ways, Porter makes even more sense. He’s around the right age for Barry Allen, and also has the right look and physique. Additionally, Porter is a comic book fan who has expressed interest in the role. And unlike Pine, Porter’s schedule is very open for a superhero gig such as Flash. Finally, of course, the Speed Racer actor has the acting chops and comedic timing required for this role, making him one of the best choices. Hopefully, he will be among those considered by WB when the time is right to cast The Flash.
_______________________________________________________________
Who do you think should play The Flash on the big screen?
Founder and Editor-in-Chief of WOBAM! Entertainment.
Latest posts by Paul Romano
(see all)
