"Arrow" Star City 2040 (TV Episode 2019) Poster

(TV Series)

(2019)

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6/10
I don't care about the flash forwards
andringaben25 March 2019
Warning: Spoilers
This review is a little unfair because the episode was structured really well, but I just don't care about the flash forwards. I'm not a huge fan of the characters. They just seem like discount versions of Oliver. I'm hoping the rest of the season is heavily focused on the present
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6/10
It Just Isn't Arrow Anymore
ThomasDrufke19 March 2019
Considering the future storyline has had very little material at all this year, at least nothing good enough to be memorable, I guess it was only a matter of time before the show decided to do a full flash forward episode like they used to do with flash backs. The problem is, they haven't built up these characters enough, nor the plot for that matter, for the flash forwards to feel weighted at all.

I do think Katherine McNamara has the talent to lead an episode and certainly showed a great physical presence in fight scenes as well. I just wish she was given better material work with then the cliched stuff they gave her and Emily Bett tonight.

There are still many questions left unaswered with the flash forwards, Connor Hawke, Diggle, and the direction of the show overall. Heck, we only have 6 or so episodes left, where is this going?

6.1/10
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6/10
Sick of flashbacks, flash forwards
cmburton-2987513 June 2019
CW makes too many episodes and has to use filler episodes and insane loops that don't make sense. Just no thanks anymore
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8/10
Too much Felicity
aguithooo20 March 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I liked the episode, but I feel that they give too much prominence to Felicity. I missed a lot of David Ramsey and Katie Cassidy, considering that maybe Katie makes her final appearance on the 7x18 should have had a better story.
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stupid storyline
iexceptive26 March 2019
Mia is the worst actress for this show of all time no offence.
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8/10
Why so many bad reviews?
ngonzalez-6994420 March 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Look, I get it. I don't like Felicity any more than the next guy, and making the big twist that she was alive the whole time was a big mistake. I feel that if they revealed that Felicity was actually dead, it could have served a much better purpose and give Mia some much-needed development.

That said, everything else in this episode was incredible. The fight choreography was beautiful (I will never get tired of Roy doing flips), and bringing back characters such as Nyssa and Connor made me nostalgic. It's also pretty obvious Oliver dies in the future, most likely in Crisis on Infinite Earths.

Beth Schwartz's way of handling Mia and William's relationship was also really great. She could've pulled a Guggenheim and make Mia the "strong, independent woman" and William the bumbling idiot who's sexist towards her. Instead, she made it so they develop off of each other, much like how Oliver and Slade developed off of each other in Seasons 1 and 2. Mia was the brawn, William was the brains, and it worked perfectly.

If the CW is actually serious about giving Blackstar her own TV show, I'd be down for it. So long as they keep the same vibe, this could be the best season of Arrow since Season 5. Overall: 8/10.
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10/10
Holy crap
iluvatar-9152819 March 2019
Seriously, if they make a spin-off / continuation - I'm buying it. Mia really is like Oliver. Good acting Katherine McNamara. "She protec, she attac, but most importantly... she is do badass and... sexy"
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9/10
Superb fight choreography and lots of good character moments, fantastic episode
Holt34419 March 2019
I didn't expect the future story would be great but seeing this episode I was blown away in how good the writing was, making us understand and care for Mia and Felicity. The episode also featured some of the best fight sequences of the season since the prison, showing brutal fight moves and giving everyone a light to shine whilst letting Mia get the spotlight and her moves are incredible. James Bamford directed the episode and he has quite a reputation of stunt work and it showed, I want him to direct more episodes as he is talented in directing and stunt work and choreography.

Katherine McNamara plays Mia Queen in such a great way, mysterious and bad ass and at the end of things showing off that she's a good actress. I hope we get to see her more in season 8 and possibly a future spin off, really liking the character development and the overall character. In the episode we get to see a cameo from one of my favorite Arrow characters, Nyssa al Ghul. The role she has in the episode is small but perfect, training Mia in martial arts and archery, making her father proud.
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6/10
Ambitious but bad previous build up and flawed
pintaxandre18 October 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Good directing and camera work. Enjoyable fight scenes. Convenient plot. Felicity is still alive OF COURSE because god forbid a character that has become useless over time dies (though I can't really complain, we recently got rid of Diaz). Dialogs are dumb. So much useless drama for character relationships that weren't good exploited previously in the season. Horrible makeup to give the feeling that the actors have aged. It only looks OK on Rene. And basically nothing of consequence happened at the end of the episode. Normally flashbacks episodes (in this case flashforwards) are quite consequent for the whole season's plot. It's really not the case this time and this series has officially worst one. The episode had started well though. Such a pity!
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9/10
Getting the band back together.
tex731 November 2019
When I read these reviews I'm convinced that I'm either watching a different show to everyone else or those other reviewers simply don't have the mental capacity to understand what they are watching. If you think this show has gone down hill & is making no sense....stop watching. The flash forwards are boring & have no relevance? Seriously.....they're fundamental to the entire story line & where we are heading in the current time line. Season 7 so far has been tremendous & is building towards an even better finale.
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6/10
A dull episode
Headsthalos20094 October 2019
Warning: Spoilers
This episode relies more on the concept of the future heroes. Most of the heroes from the future can not act especially for the actress who portrays Mia. It's a dull episode due to bad acting and lazy writing. I only watched the whole episode in hoping it pays off for the rest of the season.
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9/10
Where is Arrow?
contactwithamitbarman17 August 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Apologies for the previous response exceeding the word limit. Here's a revised review of Arrow Season 7 Episode 16, "Star City 2040," within a 700-word count:

Arrow Season 7 Episode 16, titled "Star City 2040," takes a departure from the present-day storyline and plunges viewers into a gritty and dystopian future version of Star City. This unique episode explores the lives of the next generation of heroes, shedding light on what happens to the city and its inhabitants decades after Oliver Queen's time.

In this installment, we are introduced to a desolate future where Star City has fallen into decay and corruption. Mia Smoak (Katherine McNamara), the daughter of Oliver Queen and Felicity Smoak, is now the Green Arrow. She leads a small team of vigilantes, including Connor Hawke (Joseph David-Jones) and Zoe Ramirez (Andrea Sixtos), as they struggle to fight crime and protect the innocent in a city overrun by ruthless gangs.

One of the standout aspects of "Star City 2040" is the exceptional world-building. The episode immediately sets the stage with its bleak and oppressive atmosphere, effectively conveying the sense of despair that has befallen the city. The production design and visual effects work in tandem to create a haunting image of a potential future for Star City if left unchecked.

The character development in this episode is another strong point. We witness Mia's internal struggle as she grapples with her identity and the weight of her family's legacy. Katherine McNamara delivers a powerful performance, capturing Mia's determination and vulnerability with depth and nuance. The exploration of her complex relationship with her brother, William (Ben Lewis), and her mother, Felicity (Emily Bett Rickards), adds emotional depth to the narrative, revealing the impact of their absence in her life.

"Star City 2040" also introduces intriguing new characters, such as the enigmatic vigilante known as the Deathstroke Gang. The episode delves into their origins and motivations, providing a fresh perspective on the challenges faced by the heroes and villains in this future timeline. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, and their interactions add layers to the overall story, making viewers invested in their struggles and triumphs.

Additionally, the action sequences in this episode are well-executed and exhilarating. From intense fight scenes to high-stakes chases, the episode keeps the audience on the edge of their seats with its fast-paced and dynamic sequences. The choreography and stunt work are top-notch, showcasing the skills of the young heroes and their formidable adversaries.

However, some viewers who are not familiar with the overarching Arrowverse storyline may find the departure from the present-day narrative and the absence of familiar characters somewhat disorienting. "Star City 2040" assumes a certain level of investment in the series and may require viewers to have followed previous episodes to fully appreciate the intricacies of the narrative and the dynamics between the characters.

In conclusion, Arrow Season 7 Episode 16, "Star City 2040," offers a compelling and thought-provoking glimpse into the future of Star City. It successfully establishes a bleak and desolate setting, presents strong character development, and delivers thrilling action sequences. While it may not resonate as strongly with viewers who are not invested in the series' overall narrative, it remains a worthwhile episode for fans of the Arrowverse and those interested in exploring alternative timelines within the show's universe.
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6/10
The Future Is Bleak
Anonnamus31 January 2020
Warning: Spoilers
I loved the idea of the flash-forwards when they were first introduced at the beginning of the season, but the storyline and apparent disappearance/death of 2019's beloved characters is making it increasingly difficult to care what happens in the future. All I see is that the vigilantes and heroes die in vain, as Star City has seemingly become much worse.

The actress who portrays Mia was a good choice, especially when it was obvious from the moment she appeared on the screen she was Felicity's daughter. Felicity won't win a Mother of the Year award with her continuing lack of communication and then enrolling her toddler into the Black Widow training program. At least Mia will always be able to take care of herself, so perhaps it wasn't such a bad decision after all.

As for the rest of the characters, I don't care. William as a grown-up is nice to see, especially the fact that he didn't seem to inherit any of his father's penchant to run head-first into danger and actually takes a step back to think about what he does before he leaps. His forceful voice reminded me a whole lot of Oliver's, too. Connor Hawk was pointless, as was Roy and Dinah (although I love them). Felicity creates the program that will be used as a weapon in the future, but at this time I cannot figure out what the point of all this is. I'm hoping it will come together soon before I lose all interest.

The main problem I have with the flash-forwards are the fact that I cannot keep the mindset that they are 21 years in the future because other than a grey hair or two and a couple of lines around their eyes, they look about four years older than their children. I have aged more in two weeks than they have in two decades. I mean, can you even TRY to make it look like they're supposed to be nearing senior citizenship?
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1/10
The most pointless episode in the show.
michaelwilson-7250218 April 2019
Warning: Spoilers
First of all, the flash forwards have been unnecessary from the beginning of the season. The flashbacks from past seasons always led up to something in the present, but the forwards don't lead to anything in the main part of the show.

Now they've decided to focus an entire episode on what happens in 2040, which again, doesn't lead to anything. "Star City 2040" was not only the show's biggest filler, but the perfect example of how the writers are out of ideas and why the Arrowverse seasons need to shorten.
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6/10
Decent.
cruise013 September 2019
3 out of 5 stars

The flash forward episode that shows Felicity and Olivers daughter growing up and training to be a vigilante. Then, following her and their son searching for Felicity. Interesting take on the story. But nothing worth remembering. It does have a cool music score with this episode and fight scenes.
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2/10
Egregious storyline, fight scenes, acting and no Green Arrow
breathedirt21 March 2019
Warning: Spoilers
We...need...LESS...of Felicity Smoak. Congratulations on expanding my black list of characters to be removed from the show by introducing Mia. Out of all the Arrow side scenes that have been used to introduce flashback or explanatory stories, this futuristic trash is the worst one. There is absolutely no meaning to it. The way the said girl was raised is lacking logic and the scene where she finds out about Felicity's secret computer room and about her vigilante-like actions which for some unknown reason causes her to utter statements like "I don't even know who you are" or "I'm leaving. I need to find the truth about everything. About who our family really is" is utterly nonsensical and ridiculous. And the fight scene where unarmed Mia fights at least 10 fully armed trained men is just the final nail in the coffin.
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3/10
Ruining the show with this rubbish
jamiekressinger20 March 2019
Felt like I was watching a different show. Arrow has slowly been going down hill. But this episode was awful.

It's basically become just one of the many awful teen shows out there.

And don't even get me started on the acting from these new kids in it.

If its coming to and end. Let the show go out with some dignity. Not ruin something that once had great stories and good acting.
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3/10
Its called Arrow, not Smoak
akituln19 March 2019
As much as I like this series, it has gone so far downhill since its concept. Superhero work requires some detective work I get, but Green Arrow is supposed to take down the bad guys with a bit of a quip and Trick arrows. The darkness side borrows too much from Batman but I get it, He is the Batman of this universe.

This Flash forward episode looks to be a set up for a spin off after Season 8 ends it, but at this rate it looks like Amell will be taking a backseat to Rickards as she is pushed to the forefront. She was made the romantic interest over the comic staple of Black Canary, and much screen time is given to showing how capable she is as a tech genius and as overwatch. She would be better suited as a supporting character and letting the TITLE character do their thing.

The Fight choreography is seeming to get lazy as well. I never really understood why someone with a gun would move into melee range without firing a shot, and then fire only once the target is touching them... And since the stuntwoman's (or stuntperson's if you are that way inclined) face is visable, they just blur it out, even Speilberg put SFX in jurassic park to cover that up.

I feel the flash forward is a step in the wrong direction, but since its series is ending next year... it doesnt even matter
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1/10
Worst episode ever!!
alexkadolph16 July 2020
This episode is pure fan service to a vocal minority. The flash forward characters and storyline is pointless and boring. Felicity has been a stale character for so long and Mia is completely unlikable. My favorite part of the episode was when it was over... because I took a nap due to boredom.
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1/10
This is not the Arrow I fell in love with
jbistiz19 March 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I know that I have thought Arrow hasn't been as good previously, but in this episode, this is honestly the first time in a while I can truthfully say that this isn't the Arrow I fell in love with. I'm just now coming to that realization while watching this episode tonight. It's kinda sad really.

This is not how this show was supposed to go. The first 2 seasons were amazing! Then they started to focus, and pander to a ship that isn't even canon in the comics, and to their shippers.

Now they want us to watch an all future episode, with absolutely nothing in it being canon from other Green Arrow stuff. It just doesn't feel right, and leaves a bad taste in my mouth.

Say what you will about Laurel, but at least it never got this bad with her storylines. You can not say the same for the Felicity, and Olicity storylines, as is well represented by the reception of the end of Season 3, and all of Season 4, and all Felicity/Olicity centric episodes after that too on this site.

Sadly the writers could've changed things up for the better this season, and it seemed like they were in the first half of the season with Oliver in the prison. Excuse my lack of a better term, but the writers didn't have the balls to do anything to their mary sue original creation Felicity Smoak. Sadly that is one thing they mistakenly continue to do, and did so again in this episode. I mean c'mon, Felicity is older than Roy, and she barely looked any older in this episode, while Roy looks 20 years older than her.

I have got to say this has been the worst episode of Arrow in a while, and this is one of the first times I have ended an episode of any show and felt depressed about how downhill it has gone. The only highlights of the episode for me was seeing Nyssa again (though I thought the training Mia while she's aging montage was pretty stupid), and the Spider-Man reference.
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3/10
Wow does this chick suck as an actress
larosaj-2666619 March 2019
Warning: Spoilers
They've practically ruined Arrow with the character of Mia. Another 100 pound soaking wet joke. The whole future storyline is just awful. We want to see Arrow not the Arrow ninnies. Anybody saying Mia can act must be pre adolescent boys. Well at least it will be over next season. Flash is practically at death's door and Legends is worse than a Saturday Morning Cartoon show. Supergirl and Lightning have been atrocious since day one. No winder the CE ratings are a barely registered blip.
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1/10
This show have lost it completely
sebastianblakeus16 April 2019
It feels like an unanimated Disney Kim possible series now! Not the Superhero green arrow i started watching. Booo hooo !!!
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1/10
Great the future kids get their own episode
mlorenzen-115 January 2021
If only it was better written, better acted, less overdramatic, less dialog circles, less who cares about these characters, less vigilantes are evil now let me be vigilante like, blah blah blah.

Bam Bam Bamford's direction is good as usual, at least, if only they gave him a better script to work.

Oh but horrible fight scene where Mia somehow loses her shoes becoming barefoot and then magically has soes again.
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1/10
Now the present needs flash forwards and the flash forwards need flash backs
ThunderKing63 October 2019
Boring pointless episode.

I don't care about Mia Smoak. I don't care about knowing the future 2040. It's like a big spoiler that says Arrow did all that hero stuff for nothing.

Mia is just an over grown teenage girl with a toxic attitude. Why? Because she found out a secret. Mia found out and became an over grown teenage girl on her period. (We've seen this reaction so many times in the last 7 years).

Maybe they should of had these flash forwards for thier finale.
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5/10
The future looks fine
highmarksreviews20 March 2019
As great of an addition the flash-forwards proved to be in the early chapters of season seven, they've lost a good deal of momentum and meaningfulness gradually. The bloated cast, cheesy melodrama and mundane plots bogged down this new storyline. "Star City 2040" brings out the best in the flash-forwards, though it still had notable flaws holding it back. Felicity (Emily Bett Rickards) and Mia (Katherine McNamara) undoubtedly stole the episode with their chemistry and heartfelt moments both in the beginning and the end of the episode. Ben Lewis's William has also been the main driving force of the plot thread and that persisted here too. The episode focused a little too much on minor characters, like the poorly written Connor Hawke (Joseph David-Jones) or the lazy acting of Andrea Sixtos as Zoe Ramirez. Roy (Colton Haynes) and Dinah (Juliana Harkavy) are getting less and less interesting, yet they could bring so much to the table. It is clear moving forward that the flash-forwards are at their best focusing on two-three characters at the same time and should probably divert attention from the more poorly received ones. Or at the very least, improve the writing. Thankfully, even with multiple occasions of cheesy dialogue and a campy villain, director James Bamford managed to assemble this episode with his keen eye for compelling shots and lighting, not to mention a handful of his signature fight scenes. "Star City 2040" wasn't at all perfect, it still proved that the flash-forwards suffer from a character too many and some lazy melodrama, yet it managed to keep me engaged with the characters I like and serve up a satisfying story with some great action.
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