The Flash - Rogue Time - Review

The challenge with any great cliffhanger is living up to its potential. While at times I loved what went on during this episode, much of it felt like a letdown after being blown away so many times last week. At times it was almost frustrating, it did however give some good moments but nothing on the level that we got last week.

After having gone back in time, Barry quickly learnt just how much the time-stream can be screwed with. Make one change and it ricochets. It was interesting to see how things diverge as they went along and how some minor comments can completely change things. Mardon however was dealt with quickly and in a most unsatisfying manner. After trying to make him seem impressive last episode he just came off as weak here. However to take his place we got Captain Cold, Heat Wave and newbie Golden Glider.

I personally enjoyed Captain Cold and Heat Wave along with their comic-book-style performance. A scene I really enjoyed took place near the end when Captain Cold and Barry came to a...lets go with 'mutual understanding'. Lisa also adds some more fun to the Rogues as they bolster their line-up, however I didn't like her changes from the comics.

I'm just nitpicking here, but Golden Glider focuses more on speed with various jewel themed gadgetry. Giving her a gold gun goes against that and also opens up more plot related questions. If Cisco can make these guns in a couple of hours out of household items...why hasn't he given one to say...Joe?

On the topic of Cisco though, he really was one of the high points of this episode. Since the previous episode, Carlos has really been nailing his performance. We also got to see Cisco's family along with his brother, Dante, after being referenced last week. However when push came to shove, Cisco had to make a tough choice between his friends and his family. Now due to his actions, Captain Cold knows Flash's identity.

Romance was also on the cards in this episode, now that Barry knew Iris' feelings. However, as with many other elements the ricochet effects didn't work in Barry's favor. Barry wants Iris and came so close to it. With that knowledge he threw away his relationship with Linda, only to lose Iris to Eddie as well.

Harrison also had some nice moments during this episode, which while of less importance then they were last week still plays up his mysterious nature. His friendship with Cisco had some nice touches and even carried a small ode to the events of last week. However the last thing Harrison wants is for Barry to ruin the time-stream. Right now he believes he's on a path to return to the future, but as things change will that always remain the same? Unfortunately for Harrison, Barry has started to suspect his involvement with Reverse Flash.

Also as with the ricochet effect, someone had to die. Unfortunately this time it had to be Mason. I would have liked for Mason to tell Iris about his findings regarding Harrison. She needs to be brought into the main plot rather then just played up as the love interest.

Oh and Caitlin near the end...nice save!

Overall thoughts:
While much of this episode was lackluster compared to the previous week, I do however believe it set up some important foundation for the future that was really needed. We know that Barry will go back in time again, this time to the day his mother was killed. But now that Barry knows just how bad things can turn out, will his actions and choices be affected?

About the Author - Christopher DeBono

Australian Student. Addicted to TV, novels, comics and all things video games.

Watches everything on The CW and many Australian shows.

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