Top 3 Daughtry Songs

May 19, 2018May 19, 2018 / Daryn Kirscht / Leave a comment

Chris Daughtry, the former American Idol finalist, has been a constant success in the music industry ever since his departure from the show in 2006. He has been a smash-hit machine with two albums debuting at number one on the Billboard Top 100 chart while selling over 8 million albums and 30 million digital tracks in total – and that is just in the U.S. alone. There are so many great songs to pick from, which, in turn, should make this list tough, yet hard to mess up. That also means that quite a few amazing Daughtry songs will fail to make this list, sadly.

Note: Instead of me describing why these three songs are the ones I chose, I will post YouTube links to the songs below so you can listen to them and hear, critique, and enjoy their quality.

Honorable Mention) “Louder Than Ever”

3) “Feels Like Tonight”

2) “Over You”

1) “Start of Something Good”

What do you think of my list? Are you disappointed by the lack of hits tracks like “What About Now” or “Home,” or are you satisfied with the results? Make sure to let me know. Thanks for reading and/or listening!

Changes To My Blog

January 20, 2018January 20, 2018 / Daryn Kirscht / Leave a comment

Lately I’ve been thinking of ways to maintain more consistency with my personal blog site. Some ideas have come and gone, but there are a few ideas that I would like to implement in addition to what is currently being written and published. Writing articles about topics I care about is something that I enjoy doing in my spare time and I am going to continue to do so, but now in a little more organized fashion.

I did change the title of my blog site, but as this article title indicates, I will be starting some new blog writing series. The first will be titled ‘The Top 3 Series,’ which can range from any topic on the planet. My second new series, ‘In Defense Series,’ can also be about any subject and will be defense pieces – typically about something controversial. The final series will be a retrospective series on professional athletes, titled: ‘Pro Athlete Retrospective.’ All of my titles are temporary and could slightly change.

To add to the list of new series, I will also be adding articles with some insights into my mind and life more consistently. I have a feeling this category is what most people will tend to gravitate towards, so I will make sure to hopefully reveal some of my inner workings at least once per month.

The first new article to be published will be “Top 3 Jim Carrey Films” and the goal is to publish one article from one of the new series once every few weeks. I have already gotten started for a different website that I write for on WordPress called Cinema Cure (that you can also find on this blog here), titled “In Defense of DCEU Fans: The Misguided Notion and View of DC Fandom.”

I hope you venture on this journey with me. It will be a lot of fun and I’ll also take requests into strong consideration. In addition, I will still write occasional reviews of TV-shows and movies as well as random opinion pieces.

Thanks for reading as always and have yourself a wonderful day!

“Riverdale” Season 1 Review

June 14, 2017 / Daryn Kirscht / Leave a comment

This critically-acclaimed CW series, based upon characters from Archie Comics and currently available for streaming on Netflix, has some awesome, multi-dimensional, and relatable characters (and actors portraying those characters), intriguing murder-mystery moments, fun Easter eggs and references (hint, hint, DC Rebirth), and a refreshing tone and take on this type of source material. This will be a non-spoiler review, but a few very minor spoilers may appear. The basic, end-all, be-all question I set out to answer by the end of this review is the following: is “Riverdale” a good show that I can recommend to others?

When I first saw promotional material for the pilot, I was immediately intrigued by the plot and tone that the show was going for. “Riverdale” turns the opportunity for a stereotypical high school drama into a fun, dark, and wacky murder-mystery with a high school template. The plot of the pilot, which sets up the entire season, begins with high school reject, Jugghead Jones (Cole Sprouse), narrating the story he is writing about all the events happening in the small town of Riverdale, which happens to be the content of each episode. The opening finds a high school girl named Cheryl Blossom (Madelaine Petsch) located on a rock next to Sweetwater River with a distraught look on her face. It is revealed that her brother, high school football star, Jason Blossom, has been found murdered and the investigation begins.

One thing this show nails is characterization. The show revolves around a small group of attractive, yet real and believable high school kids. Football star and up-and-coming musician, Archie Andrews (K.J. Apa), appears to be the focal character of the show. He might appear to be the perfect “boy next door” type of character, but he is written in a way that makes him much more flawed and relatable. His best friend, Jugghead, might be the best character on the show. The constant turmoil that his character deals with and continues to rise above is something admirable and inspirational in a sense. The “girl next door” to Archie is Betty Cooper (Lili Reinhart). She is another character that masterfully avoids being a stereotype. She has her own issues to deal with at home that complicate her life. Her best friend and new girl in town, Veronica Lodge (Camila Mendes), is probably a fan favorite. She has charisma and charm, but despite her rich family and endless talents, she gets caught up in the heart of the story.

One aspect of the show that has surprised me is the critique of parenting. All of the parent/guardian figures have decent intentions at heart, but don’t always live up to expectations. Veronica lives with her mother, Hermione Lodge (Marisol Nichols), in which it is revealed that Hermione is not a completely innocent parent (Veronica’s father is in jail, so I suppose he isn’t innocent, either). Betty’s parents, Alice Cooper (Mädchen Amick) and Hal Cooper (Lochlyn Munro), are control freaks and believe in discipline and perfection, which obviously leads to conflict with Betty and others. Cheryl’s parents, Penelope Blossom (Nathalie Boltt) and Clifford Blossom (Barclay Hope), run a $1 million syrup company and are probably the most problematic of the parents on the show. For two people that recently lost a son, they still seem quite cold and suspicious to viewers. The most unsuspicious and well-hearted parent is actually Archie’s father, Fred Andrews (Luke Perry). We do get to meet his mother, Mary Andrews (Molly Ringwald), but Fred is the parent that everyone wishes they had. He is the heart of all that is good in Riverdale, but that doesn’t mean he can’t be human, either. The plot seems to hammer home the idea that too much power and control can lead to chaos (like strict parenting, for example), but chaos has already become a staple for the town of Riverdale – which is fascinating as a viewer.

When the plot takes a break from the murder investigation and slows down, there are some great musical moments. Following not just Archie’s storyline involving music, but also a band named The Pussycats are excellent and fit the show perfectly. Obviously the song lyrics are meant to subtly reflect and reveal the feelings of the character singing, but the music itself has great replay value – even outside the show. It’s not only that the musical scenes have good music, but it furthers the plot of the episode and adds to it tremendously. This is one area of the show that I cannot wait to see expand with the characters and the plot.

Every television show or movie has pros and cons to them, and “Riverdale” is no different. Don’t get me wrong, I like high school shows (including this one), but there is one particular aspect of the show that bugs me a little bit. I cannot understand why the show has an elaborate kissing scene in almost every single episode. Most of them actually work well, but it can feel overdone at times to a point where it takes me out of it and it loses its impact. In addition, certain characters hate each other during one episode, then get along really well the next episode, and then hate each other the episode after that. I find it to be a little odd and somewhat unbelievable. Plus, some of the dialogue doesn’t feel authentic at times, but it never took me out of any particular episode.

I think it’s obvious that there will be some kind of reveal at some point during the season. For me, I didn’t find that specific reveal to be very rewarding or impactful, which negatively impacts the entire murder-mystery subplot throughout the season. All of the build-up, twists, and turns in regards to the murder is actually fascinating and digs up new questions, but how it all concluded feels like somewhat of a letdown – although it is actually filmed really well. In fact, after I initially watched the finale episode, I thought it was a weak ending to such a good show. After taking some time to process it, I’ve actually come to like it quite a bit more, but not entirely. I’ll let you watch and decide for yourself. What I can say is this: the best scene of the entire season is in the season finale.

My only other minor gripe about “Riverdale” is based on the season finale. To me, I feel like I already know exactly what is going to happen in the next season. I like the idea of how they were setting up the next season, but I think they set it up a little too well – although, I have to admit, a particular scene with Archie and Veronica is pure gold.

With everything considered, I think this is a show that I can definitely recommend to potential viewers. The good easily outweighs the bad. The show’s producers, writers, directors, and tech crew (most notably: executive producer, Greg Berlanti, and composer, Blake Neely) have a hit-show on their hands. I think the part I like most about “Riverdale” is that while the first season is a success, the future seasons have so much potential and ability to elevate the show’s quality even more.

Grade: B

Should you buy the Ultimate Edition of BvS?

May 29, 2016 / Daryn Kirscht / 2 Comments

In 2013 at the San Diego Comic-Con, Hall-H was filled with approximately 6,500 screaming fans dressed in costumes of their favorite heroes and villains. Warner Brothers had a surprise panel that saw Man of Steel director Zack Snyder walk across the stage and eventually announce (with the help of Harry Lennix) that the sequel would be Batman v Superman. Pretty crazy, right?

Fast forward to March 2016. Your local theater played the theatrical cut of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (PG-13), and nationally garnered very mixed reactions and reviews from fans and critics alike. Overall, it has made quite the haul ($860 million worldwide), and has set up a great DC Universe for the big-screen for years to come.

What some people don’t know is that the DVD/Blu-Ray release of the movie in July will have an extended edition with an ADDITIONAL 30 MINUTES of deleted scenes not shown in the theatrical version – putting the film’s runtime at 3 hours and 1 minute. Plus, the ultimate edition will have OVER 2 HOURS of behind-the-scenes footage. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention – it’s rated R (sequences of violence).

That begs the question: should YOU buy the extended/ultimate edition of BvS? Well, it depends if you want to see the movie the filmmakers wanted you to see in the first place. Only mere months before entering movie theaters, the studio and Snyder decided to cut the film down in order to make more money and not detract fans that don’t want to sit through 3 hours of a movie without peeing and missing anything.

I’ve already pre-ordered it online, and I’m fascinated by the scenes that are mentioned to be in it. I think it will make the movie better. It should (hopefully) fill in some of the plot holes that critics had problems with and flesh-out the characters and their motivations more. It will also give a hint as for what’s to come in the future movies – like the roles of Jena Malone and Dan Amboyer (which I may already know).

It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. I’m actually more surprised we didn’t get one with Man of Steel since Zack Snyder is so good at director’s cuts/extended editions. His director’s cut of Watchmen (another R-rated superhero movie from 2009) has actually been received much better than the original theatrical cut.

If you’re a fan of masterful soundtracks, solid villains, spectacular action and visuals, and thought-provoking subject matter that isn’t just for kids, then you will love this ultimate edition of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. It has possibly the best on-screen Batman, the greatest, most powerful hero of all-time in Superman, and not to forget an incredible Wonder Woman too! At the very least, it’s an entertaining watch. Thanks for reading!

Reasons to See Batman v Superman

March 4, 2016 / Daryn Kirscht / Leave a comment

Prelude

2016 is a year full of action-packed superhero films, and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is not only one of the most anticipated movies this year, but of all-time. Visionary director Zack Snyder (300, Watchmen) helms this film three years after the events in Man of Steel. BvS is now a cultural phenomenon, and the kind of movie that people usually seem to either love or hate. I won’t spoil it, but instead provide insight as to why this movie will be worth your time and money.

The Terrific Ensemble Cast

The movie has a large, talented cast of actors that grant this film unprecedented credibility. Gal Gadot (Fast and Furious 6) adds the first big-screen portrayal of the most iconic female superheroine, Wonder Woman (who is getting her own movie next year). Meanwhile, Ben Affleck (The Town, Gone Girl) takes on a The Dark Knight Returns / Batman: The Animated Series version of the caped crusader, with Henry Cavill reprising his role as Clark Kent/Superman.

The much debated Jesse Eisenberg (The Social Network) is locked-in as the film’s main antagonist, billionaire Lex Luthor. He is publicly adored after helping rebuild Metropolis – while showcasing clear hatred for Superman as the end of human achievement. Other notable actors in the film include Jeremy Irons (The Lion King), Lauren Cohan (The Walking Dead), Callan Mulvey (300: Rise of an Empire), Amy Adams (American Hustle), Holly Hunter (The Incredibles), Scoot McNairy (Non-Stop), and an appearance by former Green Bay Packer halfback Ahman Green.

Brawling on the Big Screen

For the majority of this movie, we’ll see the two titans facing off. Many initially wondered why they are fighting each other. Batman sees Superman as an alien threat to mankind after the destructive battle in Metropolis during Man of Steel, and blames Superman. On the other hand, Superman sees Batman as a brutal vigilante – stating, “[Batman] thinks he’s above the law.” In essence, they are two sides of the same coin. Affleck recently stated in Empire Magazine, “Rather than just ‘Alien v Predator,’ where you have two monsters and they’re going to fight, you have two people who really, truly believe they are doing something heroic and necessary in their conflict.” Both the comic-con trailer and the final official trailer indicate this brawl (among other action sequences) will be a spectacle for the ages.

Soundtrack

Returning to compose the epic score is the collaboration of Hans Zimmer (The Dark Knight) and Junkie XL (Mad Max: Fury Road, Deadpool). They both masterfully composed Man of Steel, and while Zimmer is doing most of the soundtrack again, Junkie XL will be taking on the new Batman theme. Four officially released 90-second samples can be found on YouTube and SoundCloud from their production company, WaterTower Music. Rumor also has it they will score the Zack Snyder directed Justice League: Part I due out in late 2017.

The Crew Behind the Cameras

BvS reunites Affleck with the film’s new writer, Chris Terrio, as they worked together closely on the critically-acclaimed film Argo, winning Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay at the 2013 Oscars. Terrio’s writing has been endlessly praised, especially for intellectual ideology, and most notably by Jesse Eisenberg, “[Terrio is] addressing geopolitics in this movie and not in a way that’s pretentious and esoteric.” Jeremy Irons has also been quoted saying the film, “[H]as an amazing screenplay. It’s a blockbuster written from the heart.” BvS is going to exude a dark, grounded tone while still embracing the lighter comic-book side of the mythology – delivering improved humor, characterization, and dialogue.

Dawn of the Justice League

At the end of the day, while Batman and Superman will be adversaries in this film, they can’t remain enemies forever. As the subtitle hints, there’s always a chance we might see other DC Comics superheroes (or villains) briefly appear. Ezra Miller (The Perks of Being a Wallflower), Broadway actor Ray Fisher, and Jason Momoa (Game of Thrones) are destined for heroic cameos in the film, and in the case of a Doomsday scenario, perhaps a few cameos could help protect the people of Earth.

Final Thoughts

On Easter weekend, March 25, this huge Warner Brothers DC film, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, will be remembered for decades, and in the best way possible.

Rocky II: A Superior Sequel

November 8, 2015November 8, 2015 / Daryn Kirscht / Leave a comment

“Yo, Adrian.” The sequel to the 1976 Academy Award for Best Picture (Rocky) continues the saga with increasing momentum and spectacle. It’s an action/thriller written from the heart. Rocky II (1979) screenplay was written and directed by Sylvester Stallone, who also reprised his role as the “Italian Stallion” – Rocky Balboa. Other notable returning stars are Talia Shire (Adrian), Carl Weathers (Apollo Creed), Burt Young (Paulie), and Burgess Meredith (Mickey). Rocky II picked up right where the first one left off. Rocky and Apollo are in the same hospital, and things sort of whirlwind from there. Rocky lets his quick rise to fame get the best of him, and loses the respect of those close to him (along with all of his money). With a determined Apollo Creed feeling the heat of an overwhelming amount of hate-mail and media criticism, he is left with no choice but to prove his worth in a rematch with Philadelphia’s “favorite son,” Rocky Balboa.

In this Irwin Winkler/Robert Chartoff-produced film, the acting is absolutely spectacular. Carl Weathers steals the show as the reigning Heavyweight Champion. His line deliveries and body movements capture exactly how he feels, and got potentially snubbed for nomination of Best Supporting Actor at the 1980 Oscars. Weathers’s believability and vulernability really drove the motivation in every scene he was in. Another actor’s performance that really shone was that of Burgess Meredith, portraying Rocky’s trainer, Mickey Goldmill. He has a couple scenes in the film where he has to knock some sense into Rocky, and does it masterfully (in addition to adding some comedic relief at specific moments). His veteran experience really helps create that contrasted juxtaposition with the young, inexperienced Mr. Balboa. Sylvester Stallone was great as usual. His ability to continue the star-power of writing, directing, and starring in the same film, while making it almost an equal to his first big hit, compares similarly to a more recent example in Ben Affleck (as does this whole movie for the next blockbuster film Affleck will star in due out in March 2016, but that’s a different topic for a different day).

Most movie sequels don’t quite live up to the original, but that’s not necessarily the case with this film. A gritty and grounded style of storytelling really helps create believability not only for each scene, but in terms of what this film is trying to be. Another specific element in Stallone’s writing that excels is the humanistic approach combined with the grounded, everyday life “movie universe.” That term is used very frequently in today’s world of cinema. With sequels, prequels, remakes, and spin-offs in the works frequently, it can become very confusing to the average movie-goer for which is which. Fortunately for this film, it came out in 1979, so it didn’t have to deal with that.

When it comes to Stallone’s writing, each scene has a specific way in which they are voiced on screen that not only tell you, they resonate and make you think about it for moments afterwards (show, don’t tell). In other words, each scene carries weight. In a scene early on, Apollo is in an office with his trainers having a conversation. Apollo voices his opinion on wanting to face Balboa again, while his trainers disagree with him. Creed asks his head trainer Tony if he won the last fight, and even though Tony replied with saying that Apollo got the decision, Apollo fires back with “I won, but I didn’t beat him!” In addition to a comedic scene where Rocky proposes to Adrian in the most interesting and worst way possible, another scene where great writing is evident is when Rocky is greeted by Mickey at 3 A.M. in a church. Rocky is ailing, and Mickey sees this, so he starts off his monologue by going easy on him, reminding him that he has a fight coming up soon with an angry Apollo Creed that Rocky isn’t ready for. Then Mickey bursts out, “For God’s sake, why don’t you stand up and fight this guy hard like you done before? That was beautiful!” Then he eventually retreats by saying that he doesn’t want to get mad in a biblical place, but reveals his thoughts on how Rocky’s potential is more than he has proven thus far. It ends beautifully by Mickey sitting by Rocky and praying, while telling him how he’s all in with “Rocko” – whether they win or lose.

Another beautiful element in Rocky II is the score. Composed by Bill Conti, it highlights the comedy, drama, and suspense in masterful ways. The comedic scenes are few and far between, but when they appear, the score usually helps create the levity that Stallone is trying to captivate by having light, soft piano themes (especially the scenes between Rocky and Adrian). When the going gets tough, it continues those softer themes, but usually with a slower, more somber tone. A great example of this is the track, “Vigil,” where it captures the emotion at the particular part of the movie beautifully. One of the editing choices made was adding the score in towards the end of each scene that needs it, with the exception of the training scenes and climactic boxing match. Before the final ring confrontation, there is a scene where something critical happens involving Adrian, Pauly, Mickey, and Rocky, and the suspense leading into that event is brought out of the cross-cutting scenes even more with the long-lasting baritone/bass note that keeps repeating. When Rocky finally kicks it in gear and starts training hardcore, Conti created this dark, motivating track that demonstrates how Rocky is feeling inside (motivated), and then he goes on a morning run – except this time a famously familiar tune: “Gonna Fly Now” starts playing and kids everywhere start running with Rocky down streets and all the way up those stairs. Finally, the score during the boxing match between Rocky and Apollo is suspenseful and epic – much like a 300 or Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part II showdown. With the twists and turns during the characterization up until about 2/3 of the way in, the final battle between the two God-like warriors really exemplifies it, leaving you on the edge of whatever seat you’re sitting in to see who will make it out of the match alive.

Rocky II really embodies what makes Hollywood so great and successful in today’s entertainment industry. It has all the highs, lows, and thrilling plot points that make a feature-film exciting and fun to watch. You see all these beloved characters return to the big-screen and do their best to endure through and overcome tough times and struggles. Between Stallone’s brilliant balance of characterization vs. spectacle, the actors delivering and putting on a wonderful display of emotion and physicality, and the score that helps put you cringing on the edge of your seat (or crying during sad moments) really make for one of the best sports films of all-time. There have been quite a lot of sports movies over the years – some great, some not-as-great – but none have really resonated with me quite like this Rocky franchise. These movies (with the exception of Rocky V) have always been favorites of mine since I was a little kid, and although much time has passed between now and then, that time has only allowed me to enjoy them even more. If you haven’t seen Rocky II, or even Rocky, I’m highly recommending that you find it on Netflix or DVD (shouldn’t be more than $10). You won’t be disappointed!

The Flash: The CW’s fantastic TV-series made better from where it originated

February 11, 2015February 12, 2015 / Daryn Kirscht / Leave a comment

The Flash is one of the most popular shows on TV today. It has the young, science-like feeling of Kyle XY and also the magic of DC Comics all put together with its combined, grounded universe with Arrow, another hit CW TV-show. Not only does it have a wonderful score, and some “flashy” special effects (no pun intended), it has a wonderful cast that includes Grant Gustin as Barry Allen/Flash, Candice Patton, Danielle Panabaker, Carlos Valdes, Rick Cosnett, Jesse L. Martin, and Tom Cavanagh as Dr. Wells. They really excel in every scene of every episode they are in. I also can’t forget to mention the amazing guest stars they have: notable names are John Wesley Shipp (from the former same-titled show back in the 1990’s), Robbie Amell (The Tomorrow People), Wentworth Miller (Prison Break), Greg Finley (Secret Life of the American Teenager), Mark Hamill (Star Wars IV-VI), and Emily Kinney (The Walking Dead). This show might have the best overall cast on television (even better than NCIS). Not only do these specific people just bring credibility, but also build upon the wonderful, already-existing chemistry that this show has. Without a doubt though, Grant Gustin (Glee) and Tom Cavanagh (Ed) are the definite lead actors in the show, and it wouldn’t be able to sustain such high ratings and viewers without them both. They are perfect for the roles they play, and bring a presence and personality that makes viewers ecstatic.

The show was created by Greg Berlanti and Andrew Kreisberg, who have both written every episode so far, and probably will the rest of the first season. Geoff Johns – Chief Creative Writer at DC Comics – has also been involved with the writing process, having helped written 11 of them so far. That’s a huge plus when it comes to knowledge and familiarity with the characters in the comics, and helps a lot when it comes to bringing those characters onto the screen. The Flash has a long list of directors so far, but David Nutter and Glen Winter have both directed two episodes so far, and have a pretty good resume and reputation in the business when it comes to directing television. One of my favorite parts of the show is how they have universal themes tied into each episode and keep the story flowing very smoothly, keeping good continuity. With those themes come the dialogue that are also brought into the show that deal with speed in some sort of way. It’s another nice touch when it comes to adding depth to the show (and just makes it sound that much more awesome – in my opinion). In addition to that comes the sunny, brighter lighting that contrasts really nicely with Arrow – which we will discuss in further detail below – and also resonates with the WB/CW show Smallville, which ran ten seasons from 2001-2011.

Another area it excels is in its storyline. Each week adds a new villain for Barry and the team at S.T.A.R. Labs to face, and without doing the whole villain-of-the-week quota where they disappear after that episode – they re-introduce them in other episodes that tie-in together with what’s currently at hand. This allows Barry and the gang to keep learning more not only about Barry’s potential with his powers, but also something new about themselves. Another element included in the mix are the suspenseful plot twists that each show unfolds – particularly in the ending scenes of each episode – that really carry the story on to the next episode successfully and in a way that makes the viewer (especially me) want to watch the next one right away. Of course, these kind of scenes usually involve one specific person: Dr. Harrison Wells. The particle accelerator which he developed was supposed to be a big advancement in the field of science, but instead the core lost control and ended up sending that matter into the sky. That ultimately created havoc throughout the city and led to the loss of S.T.A.R. Labs employee Caitlin Snow’s fiance (portrayed by Robbie Amell – cousin of Stephen Amell from Arrow), and also gave Dr. Wells paralysis . . . or so everybody thought. With little hints dropped in and major plot twists in every episode, The Flash evolves more and more into a must-watch spectacle of action, science, drama, romance, mystery, and even a little comedy.

Many people are probably wondering how does this particular TV-show fit in with Arrow? It’s a really interesting question to answer, and will be my pleasure. On Season two of Arrow, they introduced Barry Allen as a CSI for the Central City police force. He was visiting Starling City and while there ended up becoming close friends with Felicity Smoak, who is Oliver Queen’s right-hand girl at the helm in the Arrow-cave. She came to Barry when Oliver’s life depended on Barry’s ability to save him. He then left for home intent on keeping Oliver’s secret identity of being the Arrow, when it’s shown that he is zapped by lightning in his room. Now ever since he woke up, he has been going to Oliver for advice and even to team up in the two-episode crossover between the two series in both of their eighth episodes in their current season. The first one was titled “Flash vs Arrow”, and the second “The Brave and the Bold.” Both were spectacular, earning a 9.5 rating (out of 10) on IMDB, and also a 9.1 rating. Another interesting fact they incorporate into both shows is how they add little “Easter eggs” into the background of scenes that involve the other show. For instance, I just re-watched the first episode of Season 2 of Arrow recently, and in one of the scenes you see a television showing the news and before it gets into the intent of what’s being shown (Oliver returning to Starling City), the broadcaster tells how the particle accelerator will be up and running soon. Another example is in the follow-up episode to the last crossover titled “The Climb,” when Felicity is seen sitting in the Arrow-cave at a computer and the very first thing on the screen is a picture of the Reverse Flash, which is a reference to The Flash‘s follow-up episode to their crossovers called “The Man in the Yellow Suit.” Plus, Felicity Smoak and a new character on Season 3 of Arrow named Ray Palmer (a.k.a. The Atom, portrayed by former Superman Returns star Brandon Routh) have been and will continue to cross over independently into episodes here and there as well.

One last cool thing before I turn you loose to go watch The Flash: the blended, incorporated small references to the DC Comics and also the DC Cinematic Universe. In one of the early episodes, Dr. Harrison Wells and the rest of the crew at S.T.A.R. Labs discover a meta-human whose skin is metal-like strong. Wells next words once Barry describes his encounter with this meta-human were “‘Interesting . . . a man of steel,” which is a reference to not only the full-length film Man of Steel, but that main character well-known in the comics known as Superman (the king of all superheroes, and my favorite superhero). Dr. Wells in a different episode also referred to Barry as “The light and hope to inspire people” in the city (referencing Superman again), and also when speaking about the Arrow arriving in Central City made it sound like he called the Arrow “Batman,” although he said “That man,” which is an indirect reference to the allusion of The Flash and Arrow being the TV-universe’s version of Batman and Superman, which is a cool image juxtaposed to the sequel to Man of Steel titled Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.

Now with all this mentioned, I think it’s time to stop questioning the show based upon a first glimpse of seeing or hearing about it. It has one of the highest ratings of any TV-show and one of the most-watched shows on screen. Even if you have no clue who the Flash character is or what the show is about, I suggest to start from the beginning and follow along. It’s the kind of show that you can talk about for hours on end. Thank you for reading my article, and I have plenty more coming in the future. If this hasn’t helped make you want to watch The Flash, I’m not necessarily sure what will. Go watch it!