The Flash Review: Dead or Alive (Season 3 Episode 11)

On The Flash Season 3 Episode 11, “Dead or Alive,” the team works to keep H.R. from being taken back to Earth 19 by Gypsy. Iris struggles with making an impact on the world after finding out she may die, while Wally gets to bask in the fame of being Kid Flash.

Cisco, shockingly, steps up to the plate to keep H.R. from being taken back to his Earth and being punished.

He later explains he does it for the affinity he had for previous Harrison Wells. This is a step closer to Cisco and H.R. forming a friendship. Maybe this will lead to H.R. becoming more of a mentor like previous Wells.

Cisco is more chipper than we’ve seen him for most of this season, even when he is proposing a trial by combat. Seeing Cisco embrace his powers to fight brings a whole new layer to his character. Cisco is smart, strong, and a huge asset to Team Flash.

Barry interferes when he thinks Cisco can’t handle the battle, before even giving Cisco a chance to fight. Barry continues to think he is the ONLY one who can fix things. Predictably, Barry actually makes the situation worse.

The fight scene between Gypsy and Cisco works well. Not only does it jump around the multiverse (including to Supergirl’s Earth), but it showcased Cisco’s powers and chemistry with Gypsy. Cisco having a love interest is something that I hope to see in the future.

Cisco ultimately wins the fight thanks to Julian’s strategy. Surprisingly, Julian may be the only one who made it through the episode without making a stupid decision.

This seems like how we get a permanent Wells; maybe this one will last more than a season. But does anyone really want this Wells to stay?

Meanwhile, Iris is being reckless by assuming that she can’t die before the time Barry saw her death. If the way to save Iris is to change the future why does she act like her death date is set in stone?

All turns out well, though, Iris gets her story and the biggest consequence is a lecture from Joe.

Barry and Iris have some nice moments discussing her legacy. As the season goes forward, saving Iris will be the constant thread leading to, I expect, many more moments between the two. Seeing them relatively happy at the end of the episode in their own apartment is rewarding to fans of the couple.

Barry finally realizes that Wally is faster than him, and that’s the key to saving Iris. For now.

Quick Thoughts

• Opening scene voiceover is fun; I’d watch that show!
• Wally loves being a celebrity, but shouldn’t they fawn over Barry since he is well-known?
• I kept confusing HR’s drumstick for a wand.
• Caitlyn and Julian are going to kiss. Maybe not soon, but one day.
• Joe literally sweating over Iris’ possibly pregnancy was hilarious.
• Couldn’t half the issues be solved if the characters talked to each other and didn’t lie?

What did you think of this episode of The Flash? Are you glad H.R. is sticking around? Did you enjoy more story around Cisco? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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The Flash airs Tuesdays at 8/7 c on The CW.

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