The Flash Season 6 Review: 5 Ups & 3 Downs From 'A Flash Of The Lightning'

1. The Character Work

There were two primary storylines in this episode and both of them yielded impressive character journeys for the protagonists that were at the heart of them.

It's been a while since we've seen Barry Allen question his own judgement, capabilities and will to do the impossible, so to see him reach such an emotional crossroad over the Crisis made for an incredibly engaging narrative. The character has given so much to the multiverse during his time as the Scarlet Speedster that he would be forgiven for thinking "Forget that, I'm The Flash!" but he didn't do that.

Instead, he dealt with the fact that he could end up sacrificing himself and, in the process, realised what he'd be sacrificing himself for - and, in a way, that helped him remember that this fight he was fighting was worth the cost if those around him got to live in safety.

On the other hand, Cecile's struggles were a little different, as upon realising that the justice system which she represented was flawed, she began to question her position as the D.A. And that gave her the platform to stand up to those who disagreed with her, putting it all on the line as she fought for someone who she knew was innocent because Allegra being a metahuman made a fair deal very unlikely.

A character that is usually highlighted for her genius comedy value, it was refreshing to see Cecile receive the spotlight in such a dramatic role - one which showcased that character is capable of so much more than previous seasons have suggested.

These two character-driven narratives were an example of some of the finest character work that The Flash has ever done, and reminded us that superhero shows can indeed produce some of the best-written characters on TV.

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What did you make of 'A Flash of the Lightning'? Tell us in the comment section below.