“The Flash”, the recent DC blockbuster, has sent shockwaves throughout its vast fanbase, but not of the anticipated variety. While the film itself has received some very high praise and the story is universally enjoyed (audience score of 84% on Rotten Tomatoes), the film’s visual effects (VFX) have come under heavy criticism, with fans expressing disappointment and bewilderment in equal measures. Central to this controversy is the film’s VFX Supervisor, John “DJ” Des Jardin, who now faces questions regarding his professional capabilities and intentions.
John “DJ” Des Jardin
An industry veteran, John Des Jardin, has made significant contributions to landmark films such as “Watchmen” and “Man of Steel”. Although he has had his panned films as well, like Green Lantern, Godzilla V King Kong and Justice League. His close professional association with director Zack Snyder has been a key feature of his career. Now we do know that Zack Snyder is known for his stunning visuals, while his story telling can go “off the rails” when left unchecked. Did “DJ” Des Jardin simply benefit from that in his career successes? However, given Snyder’s own polarizing work in the DC cinematic universe, one cannot help but draw parallels between the poor reception of Snyder’s DC projects and the current state of “The Flash” movie VFX.
Twitter has been rife with speculations on this association influencing Des Jardin’s work. One fan wrote: “Snyder’s touch was poison to the DCEU, did DJ DesJardin try to keep the curse alive with #FlashMovie? #VFXFail”.
This theory underlines how personal and professional relationships in Hollywood can possibly impact a film’s outcome. This fuels the speculation of whether the subpar VFX in “The Flash” was a deliberate act—a form of creative sabotage, perhaps an outcome of Des Jardin’s association with Snyder—or if Des Jardin simply lost his professional edge.
A Twitter user echoed this sentiment, “Is it just me, or has @DJDesJardin lost his edge? #FlashMovie VFX was a real downer”.
Another angle for consideration is that, whether Des Jardin’s work on “The Flash” was subpar due to sabotage or diminishing skill, the resulting outcry could give studios pause before hiring him for future projects.
As one movie critic put it, “After the #FlashMovie VFX debacle, studios might want to think twice before hiring DJ DesJardin. Once bitten, twice shy”, represents this perspective.
Or as @LegoMonsterX says I’m glad James Gunn is bringing his trusted people to DCU. Bc the VFX sup of The Flash is the same one who did snyder DC films including JL 2017 (He was responsible for Cavill mustache cgi). I don’t want potential VFX sabotage in new DCU.
I'm glad James Gunn is bringing his trusted people to DCU.
Bc the VFX sup of The Flash is the same one who did snyder DC films including JL 2017 (He was responsible for Cavill mustache cgi). I don't want potential VFX sabotage in new DCU.
— Leggo Monster (@LegoMonsterX) June 13, 2023
Regardless of the true cause behind the film’s VFX fiasco, one fact remains inescapable: John Des Jardin‘s latest work on “The Flash” has failed to meet the expectations of audiences worldwide. The ensuing controversy underlines the crucial role of VFX in today’s filmmaking and raises questions about the abilities of those in charge.
The film industry is an arena that places a premium on consistent quality, and fans today are more discerning than ever. With the technological advances available, there is no room for substandard VFX, especially not in high-profile superhero films where stunning visuals are a key component of the audience’s experience.
Whether John “DJ” Des Jardin was deliberately sabotaging the project, or his skills have simply waned remains a subject of debate. However, the fact remains that the visual effects in “The Flash” have been a disappointment for fans worldwide, casting a shadow over Des Jardin’s professional credibility and reputation in the industry.
The world of VFX is one where professionals are only as good as their last project. In this light, it’s clear that Des Jardin needs to bounce back stronger in his next venture. Only then can he silence his critics and regain his status as one of the leading VFX Supervisors in the industry. Until then, the VFX of “The Flash” will continue to serve as a grim reminder of the repercussions of falling short of expectations in a field where excellence is the norm, not the exception.
In the case of “The Flash”, the disappointment is further amplified due to the character’s inherent potential for showcasing spectacular VFX. Flash’s super-speed abilities present a golden opportunity for innovative and dynamic visual effects. However, according to fans, this potential was not fully realized in the movie.
A Twitter user lamented this missed opportunity, stating, “The Flash is all about speed and motion. The VFX in #FlashMovie didn’t capture that. Disappointed with DJ DesJardin”.
The CGI in #TheFlash was so bad 😭😭 it reminded me of The Scorpion King
— HUMBLE. (@razzieldn__) June 16, 2023
In an industry that thrives on success and consistency, the controversy surrounding “The Flash” and its visual effects has certainly put a damper on Des Jardin’s reputation. His professional standing could take a significant hit, and studios may be cautious in engaging his services in the future, considering the vehement criticism and disappointment expressed by audiences.
Happy to report that, The Flash, was very fun. Some of the VFX/CGI shots on that though 😬 …yikes lol
— Papi MiHomies 🇵🇷 (@PR_Berto) June 16, 2023
I mean the cgi/vfx was pretty terrible and took away from certain scenes. Outside of that it was a pretty enjoyable movie.
— Viking (@V1kingDeadShot) June 16, 2023
The situation serves as a stark reminder to the film industry about the importance of accountability, quality control, and the potential implications of personal and professional associations. It’s a wake-up call that even a single project received poorly can significantly impact a professional’s standing and reinforces the fact that in the world of filmmaking, reputation is key.
Wym? The only criticism i have against the movie is the CGI (the worst one i have seen in years and im serious), and I dont think he is to blame. I really liked the movie otherwise (didnt "love" it). Maybe having the Reeves movies have me more accepting of him tho.
— User not Found (@hola_todos10) June 16, 2023
As this scenario unfolds, one cannot help but speculate about Des Jardin’s future in the industry. Will he be able to recover from this setback and regain his footing as one of the top VFX Supervisors in the business? Or has this controversy marred his reputation to a point where recovery seems doubtful? Was he unethical in his handling of this movie or is it just a case of him not having the talent to keep up in a rapidly advancing industry?
Here's ONE spoiler: I really liked The Flash. (But yes, the CGI is terrible.) https://t.co/DJHh8dtyEu
— Graeme (@graemem) June 16, 2023
The path to redemption, though challenging, is not impossible. Des Jardin’s past work cannot be completely overshadowed by this one incident. However, it’s crucial that he takes this criticism constructively, addresses the issues raised, and delivers a higher standard of work in his future projects.
In conclusion, whether a result of sabotage, professional decay, or something else entirely, the underwhelming VFX in “The Flash” has set the stage for a challenging period in Des Jardin’s career. The forthcoming projects will determine whether he can turn the tide, silence his critics, and reclaim his place in the industry. Until then, the controversy serves as a stern reminder of the high stakes in the world of visual effects, where each new project is as much an opportunity as it is a challenge.