The Flash, the 2023 DC superhero movie starring Ezra Miller, will be available on Netflix starting in June. Despite high expectations, the film struggled at the box office.
Released in theaters on June 16, 2023, The Flash was shown in 4,234 theaters across the United States. According to box office tracker The Numbers, the film earned $108.167 million domestically and $158.382 million internationally, totaling $266.5 million worldwide.
The production budget for The Flash was substantial. The Numbers lists it at $200 million, while Screen Rant suggests it may have been closer to $220 million.
These figures exclude marketing and other expenses, leading Screen Rant to estimate that the film would need to earn between $400 million and $450 million to break even.
The Flash follows Barry Allen (Ezra Miller) as he uses his super-speed to travel back in time to prevent his mother’s murder, hoping to clear his father’s name. His father, played by Ron Livingston, was wrongfully convicted of the crime.
During his time-traveling adventure, Barry encounters various versions of Batman, including Michael Keaton’s iconic portrayal from Tim Burton’s films. The movie also features Sasha Calle as Supergirl and Michael Shannon reprising his role as General Zod, Henry Cavill’s nemesis from Man of Steel.
Despite its ambitious storyline and star-studded cast, The Flash didn’t achieve the commercial success that DC and Warner Bros. had anticipated. Now, with its arrival on Netflix, the film has another chance to capture an audience and potentially gain more appreciation from viewers who missed it in theaters.
While The Flash’s theatrical run fell short of expectations, its streaming debut on Netflix could breathe new life into the film. Streaming platforms often offer movies a second chance to find an audience, especially those that might have underperformed at the box office.
With the convenience of at-home viewing, The Flash can reach a broader audience who may be intrigued by its exploration of the multiverse and its nostalgic nods to past DC franchises. This new platform might also allow fans to appreciate the film’s visual effects and storytelling in a different light, potentially leading to a more favorable reception than its initial release.
