The Flash causes Superman continuity error
DC fans are intricately familiar with the concept of continuity in their comic book universes. Continuity refers to how events, characters, and stories are interconnected throughout a shared universe. At times, minor deviations from established continuity can lead to dramatic consequences.
What is continuity?
Continuity exists in all forms of storytelling, from comics to television shows to movies, and it is the backbone of shared universes. In DC comics, continuity refers to how events, characters, and stories are interconnected throughout the multiverse of the DC universe.
The importance of continuity
Continuity is a vital tool used by writers to keep the logic of a universe intact, as well as to prevent plot holes and contradictions from forming within the narrative. Continuity helps to create a unified, fleshed-out universe that feels real and tangible to the audience.
The Flash and Superman’s continuity error
Despite DC’s attempts to uphold continuity in their comics and films, sometimes minor deviations from established continuity can result in dramatic consequences. One such case was in The Flash movie where a minor continuity error caused a significant issue.
The initial plan for The Flash
The Flash film, released in 2022, was originally intended to have a specific ending that would tie it directly to its sequel,
which we will discuss later. In the original idea, The Flash’s time-traveling would end with the revelation of a new Superman that would follow Henry Cavill’s existing version of the character.
A recast of Superman
After some time, news emerged that Superman would be recast, which raised questions about continuity. Fans were left to wonder how a new Superman could exist alongside other heroes in the DC universe if he had no backstory that was previously established.
An unnecessary mistake
This simple mistake was unnecessary and caused significant continuity issues that left fans questioning the direction that the DC universe was taking. The decision to recast Superman instead of emphasizing continuity caused a major divide in fan opinion and an uproar from the critics.
How DC can fix the issue
To fix this continuity issue, DC must focus on creating a cohesive universe that emphasizes continuity and acknowledges the already established character relationships. DC can use Flash’s time-traveling abilities to undo the Superman continuity error and free themselves from the tangled web of continuity errors that their shared universe has become.
A new direction for the DC universe
DC needs to take a new direction with their universe and create a fresher, more coherent narrative that appeals to both critics and fans. By embracing continuity, DC can create a more engaging and realistic universe that will stand the test of time.
The importance of continuity moving forward
Continuity will continue to be a critical tool in the creation of successful storytelling and shared universes. DC and other media houses must take continuity seriously and maintain the logic of their respective universes to create successful and engaging stories.
The role of writers and creatives
Finally, it is the role of the writers and creatives to ensure continuity within the stories they are creating. This includes making sure that new characters, storylines and events do not clash with established continuity. By prioritizing continuity, DC and other media houses can create cohesive, memorable universes that stick with fans long after the story is over.
The Flash’s original ending
The original ending of The Flash would have been on the courthouse steps with the appearance of Sasha Calle’s Supergirl and Michael Keaton’s Batman, reversing their deaths, and signaling to Barry that he hadn’t fixed the timeline. This ending was screen-tested several times. Regardless, it was scrapped when plans began to change upon Discovery’s acquisition of Warner Bros.
Conclusion
In conclusion, continuity plays a vital role in storytelling, and it is essential in the successful creation of shared universes such as the DC universe. The Flash’s time-traveling abilities were the culprit in the lack of continuity between Superman films, and DC must acknowledge this mistake and focus on creating a more consistent universe.
FAQs
Q1) What is continuity in storytelling?
Continuity in storytelling is how events, characters, and stories are interconnected throughout a shared universe.
Q2) Why is continuity important in storytelling?
Continuity is essential in maintaining the logic of a universe, preventing plot holes and contradictions from forming within the narrative, and creating a unified, fleshed-out universe that feels real and tangible to the audience.
Q3) What was the issue with The Flash and Superman’s continuity?
The issue was with the recasting of Superman in The Flash movie. The recasting caused a significant issue within the DC universe’s continuity that left fans and critics questioning the direction of the shared universe.
Q4) How can DC fix continuity issues in the future?
To fix continuity issues, DC must focus on creating a cohesive universe that emphasizes continuity and acknowledges the already established character relationships and use time-traveling abilities from shows and movies to undo continuity mistakes.
Q5) What role do writers and creatives play in establishing continuity?
It is the role of writers and creatives to ensure continuity within the stories they are creating. They must make sure that new characters, storylines, and events do not clash with established continuity.