The Flash Shatters Expectations: Surpasses DC Records Despite Initial Setbacks

Highlights

The Flash has broken the record for the longest delay between theatrical release and streaming availability, with 77 days post-release.

The Flash has managed to find success on video-on-demand services, despite its underwhelming performance at the box office. This success could potentially help the studio recover from its financial losses. In light of the DCEU's recent string of failures, there are growing concerns about Warner Bros Discovery's ability to withstand more flops before reaching a crucial tipping point.

The Flash faced another setback for the DCEU after a disappointing run in theaters. This news comes as the film struggles to recover its losses through alternative release methods.

Based on the popular Flashpoint storyline from DC Comics, The Flash was positioned as the final film in the old DC Extended Universe under Zack Snyder. With the newly appointed DCU head James Gunn, it was confirmed that The Flash would serve as a reboot for the franchise. The story follows an older Barry Allen who discovers his ability to time travel and attempts to prevent his mother's death, despite Batman's warnings. However, his actions lead to him being trapped in an alternate past that is on the brink of destruction. To save the day, he must confront his mistakes and accept his mother's death.

Despite conservative estimates, The Flash performed below expectations at the box office during its opening weekend, resulting in a significant loss for the company and complicating the planned transition from the old DCEU to the new Gunn/Safran-led DCU. The film's lukewarm reception further adds to its growing list of disappointments. Interestingly, The Direct reveals that The Flash now holds the record for the longest delay between theatrical release and availability on streaming services since the launch of HBO Max (now Max). Frustratingly, it took 77 days post-release for the film to become available for streaming.

The Flash has not been included in the platform's content updates for August, suggesting that it will not be available for streaming until September at the earliest. This would mean that it will surpass 77 days without being accessible on any streaming platform. Previously, Shazam! Fury of the Gods held the record for the longest post-release period at 67 days. However, other films like Shazam! spin-off Black Adam and The Batman were released on streaming much sooner. Wonder Woman 1984 and The Suicide Squad were released both in theaters and on streaming simultaneously due to the company's pandemic-era strategy.

Despite its disappointing theatrical run, The Flash has found success on video-on-demand platforms such as iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu, where it is available for $19.99. This may help the studio recover some of the losses incurred during its cinematic release. The Flash has managed to reach the top spot on these platforms, possibly indicating that the delayed release on regular home streaming services is a strategic choice to maximize earnings from video-on-demand. The ultimate decision on this strategy will likely be made by insiders at Warner Bros. Discovery, who will prioritize profitability.

The recent failure of The Flash has raised concerns about the future of the DCEU, as it joins a string of other disappointing releases. Many are wondering how many more flops WBD can endure before reaching a critical state. Although the rebooted DCU shows promise in reviving fan interest and protecting the IPs of DC movies, there is uncertainty surrounding the fate of two projects from the Snyder era: Blue Beetle and Aquaman 2. The Flash is now accessible digitally.

Source: The Direct