The Flash Review: Growing Pains (Season 7 Episode 7)
The Flash is starting to get back to normal, but also seems to be running in circles (pun fully intended).
On The Flash Season 7 Episode 7, “Growing Pains,” the Speed Force becomes a bit overbearing as Team Flash tries to figure out who is framing Killer Frost.
The entire premise of “Growing Pains” is centered around the woman who has a vendetta against Killer Frost, Kristen Kramer, making her move and going after Frost. It’s pretty fun to see Frost get a main storyline with Caitlin as a supporting player (instead of the other way around) — but some of it seems muddled.
(Killer) Frost has done bad things, this is true. The point of “Growing Pains” seems to be that even people who change should have to pay for their crimes, which I don’t disagree with. But other than the moral message…it’s hard to see the point of the story.
The other elements (like “Chillblaine” setting her up because he resents her power) don’t really land. Chillblaine is as bland as a villain could be, and has a stupid name to boot. Hot white guy is angry that a woman has something he wants is just not that interesting.
Danielle Panabaker is a bright spot, and following Frost in a solo story is pretty fun. For her sake, it should be executed a bit better.
The real story seems to be Kristen Kramer and why she has a vendetta against Frost, but there are very few (if any) clues to that mystery on “Growing Pains.” If that’s the tease – that should be clearer.
The primary redeeming quality of “Growing Pains” is the emotional center. Frost deciding that she must surrender and pay for her crimes feels right, but is an emotional moment that works with the tone of the show.
Beyond that, Barry and Iris’ story with the Speed Force is difficult to watch at times, but has a powerful emotional undertone. It’s a compelling story that weaves artfully in between the story about Frost, which gives it some credibility. Barry having to deal with the Speed Force being overbearing and wearing his mother’s face is a lot, but Grant Gustin deftly navigates those moments.
A few stray thoughts:
- Chester is great, but Cisco is sorely missed on “Growing Pains.”
- It’s hard to tell if Grant Gustin is playing Barry a little more somber because of the circumstances, or if he just has less joy than normal? I feel like Barry used to be a little more fun.
- It warms my heart as a long time fan of The Flash to see a flashback to Frost kidnapping Julian. My kingdom for a Tom Felton return!
- Iris keeps calling the Speed Force “Nora,” while Barry deliberately says “Speed Force.” That can’t be a coincidence.
What did you think of this episode of The Flash? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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The Flash airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on The CW.
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Nick Hogan
Nick Hogan is an experienced podcaster and writer (particularly on media topics), who loves discussion and analysis of TV and is always looking for new shows to watch. He is also a parent who loves buffalo wings, blowing raspberries, and his beloved Cincinnati Reds.