Grant Gustin in Costume as 'The Flash'

First Image Reveals Head Shot of the New Barry Allen

Warner Bros. Television released this image of Grant Gustin wearing his costume for the CW pilot of 'The Flash." Production begins next week and already the craftsmanship of Oscar-winning costume designer, Colleen Atwood, is getting rave reviews by fans. The deeper red tone and sleek fitting headpiece with detailed lightning bolt has a slight DC Comics 'New 52' look to it that is worthy of the "Fastest Man Alive".

The Arrow spin-off involves police scientist, Barry Allen, who through a freak accident develops the power of super speed. The accident occurred on the second of a two-episode arc on Arrow and now the same producers, Greg Berlanti, Andrew Kreisberg and David Nutter, are bringing the classic speedster to pilot in hopes of getting a season order. It all appears to be likely if the quality of storytelling and production values are similar to CW's highest rated show, Arrow. And wouldn't the network like to appease their successful producers? Not to mention the likelihood of creating another hit show. Albeit, a slightly more "super" show. 

Unlike Arrow, The Flash has an actual super power and that requires special effects. This obviously raises production costs and changes the dynamics of the show. You'll need super powered villains, of which he has plenty in his Rogues, and so live-action shootouts and hand-to-hand combat won't be enough to do the character justice. It will have to be grander in scale without looking cheesy or campy. Another difference as seen in the shot released is that Barry Allen/Flash smiles and isn't the brooding mope of a Batman or a corny farmer's son like Superman. Gustin played Allen with an awe-struck admiration for Arrow and even when Ollie was a jerk he remained positive and was adorable in his flirting with Felicity. Likability won't be a problem.

Gustin is joined in the cast by Jesse L. Martin, Carlos Valdes, Candice Patton and John Wesley Shipp, who played Allen in the short-lived live-action CBS show in 1990.