What would we get with The Flash? It’s a question that’s been asked time and again the past six years since the character—portrayed by Ezra Miller—made his debut in Justice League. The film, following many delays and plenty of external challenges, releases today. And if it’s the end for the version of DC first offered by Zach Snyder, as appears to be the case, then it goes out on a strong note.

This film ties directly into that world, complete with appearances from other Justice League heroes, such as Batman as played by Ben Affleck, and General Zod, played by Michael Shannon. But it’s also a standalone story for Barry Allen, diving more into his life and world and exploring one of his most famous comic arcs.

In the film, Barry’s father (Ron Livingston) is imprisoned, falsely convicted of killing Barry’s mother. Barry is working to get his father’s conviction overturned, which leads him down memory lane to his mother’s death. At the same time, is increasing grip on his powers shows him the ability to run back in time.

Barry, moved by grief, is inspired to change the past and save his future. Bruce Wayne (Affleck) warns of the dire consequences. But Barry hatches a plan and puts it into motion. Soon, he’s kicked out in a new timeline where he meets his 18-year-old self. The problem is, he’s radically changed the world, leaving it without its fellow Justice League heroes.

Barry works with his younger self and an older Bruce Wayne (Michael Keaton), who’s gone into semi-retirement as Batman, to try and find a way to thwart the attack from Zod. He learns some powerful and dangerous lessons about himself and the nature of time in the process.

I was excited for this film. I have been a fan of the DC world that was created with Man of Steel in 2013. Not all the films have worked but there have been several projects that resonated with me. Still, I’ve been skeptical of a standalone Flash film and Miller in the role. But I am a big fan of Keaton in the role of Batman. He’s long been the gold standard for me in the role, leaving me excited to see his return.

That return didn’t disappoint. Neither did Miller. Director Andy Muschietti, who previously gave us the horror films Mama and IT, takes the material and runs with it. The script from Christina Hodson and Joby Harold works, too. There is a great blend of humor and drama, there are darker moments in the film, but it doesn’t feel ominous.

There are some wonderful cameos and nods to other versions of the DC in this film, making it the ideal handoff as we transition to the James Gunn/Peter Safran era of DC. And seeing what he did with this story makes me excited to see Muschietti move on to tackle a new version of Batman in the new DC.

I loved seeing Keaton back in the role of Batman. It was fun and nostalgic, particularly as the Batman 1989 theme plays at key moments. Keaton inhabits the role well, both from the first time we see him through the action sequences. Sasha Calle does well as Kara Zor-El, or Supergirl. She has some interesting scenes and stirring moments during the third act of the film.

But ultimately, it all comes down to Miller. While Miller’s personal life remains problematic, this performance assuaged any concerns I had about inhabiting The Flash. Miller plays two versions of Barry Allen, and both have unique personality and style. It’s a strong achievement and if, indeed, this is the last time Miller plays the role, it’s a good one.

The Flash isn’t perfect, and it isn’t incredible. There are some pacing issues in the middle, and some might not appreciate the approach to the look of the speed force, but it was fun and delivered on the story. It’s a good addition to the superhero landscape and brings one era of DC films to a close on a high note.

The Flash is now playing in theaters nationwide.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.