In recent memory, a chunk of the Arrowverse fanbase has likened The Flash‘s Iris West to Arrow‘s Felicity Smoak, saying she’s become just as annoying, and is now their least favorite character on the show. Personally, I harbor no ill will toward Iris or actress Candice Patton herself – it’s just my belief that the writers are currently caught in a creative rut.
Having said that, we’ll continue on with what may go down as the Year of Body-Swapping because not only is DeVoe still enjoying his new hobby of playing Hot Potato with the bus metas, but we’re about to witness one of TV’s enduring tropes rear its head. In this instance, we have the powers of a superhero being transferred to the body of an ordinary human, which you can check out in the trailer above.
So far, the decision to make Iris a speedster has garnered much attention – even if it’s only for one episode. Still, the complaint that the series has featured too many folks with those abilities – both hero and villain – is quite valid. To be honest, it may be for the best if we call it a day on speedsters, though that would unfortunately close the door on Godspeed possibly being introduced one day.
Now, you’ve probably deduced that I’m in agreement with those who’ve reacted negatively toward this creative move – and we do seem to be in the majority this time around – but I’m still going to tune in to see what “Run, Iris, Run” has to offer. Who knows, it could be a fun one-off, and I do think that giving her purple lightning is a nice visual touch.
For more, be sure to check out this official synopsis:
IRIS SUITS UP – Team Flash confront a new bus meta, Matthew AKA Melting Pot (guest star Leonardo Nam), who has the ability to swap people’s DNA. During a battle with Team Flash, Matthew accidentally takes Barry’s (Grant Gustin) speed away and gives it to Iris (Candice Patton). Now, with a new threat unleashed on Central City, Barry must act as the team leader while Iris takes on the mantle of superhero speedster in order to defeat their new foe. Harry Jierjian directed the episode written by Eric Wallace (#416).
The Flash airs on Tuesday nights on The CW.
