The Flash: 5 Lessons It Should Learn From Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman

5. Secret Identity 101

Barry Allen has no duel identity. He has a costume and a codename that he uses at very brief intervals. What is the difference? There is not a unique Flash persona separate from Barry. All of his friends are in on the secret, which is also a pretty open secret among many bad guys even. His costume is just work clothes, and the show misses out on rich storytelling material for Barry by neglecting the ramifications of duel identities.

Dean Cain's Clark Kent was a man with an actual duel identity. He balanced two different lives. One in which is he is a mild-mannered reporter with a circle of friends, and in another he is a famous hero with his own set of acquaintances (albeit some overlap). Lois & Clark showcased this duality often for storylines.

Initially, Lois & Clark showed Clark facing anxiety and near panic attacks following his first public appearance. It took time for him to cope with the attention and unusual stresses associated with living a secret double life. Clark's time in the cape was limited to only when necessary, but over time Clark grew more comfortable as Superman. This led to an expanded role for the Man of Steel.

These themes are all one that The Flash has yet to explore. They would provide fresh material for both Barry Allen and his alter ego. Plus an increase in character development for The Flash persona would further open even more doors for renewed character development.