The film begins on a school sports day. Barry Allen and Hunter Zolomon come last in the race, but Barry is consoled by his parents, who congratulate him for at least taking part. However, nobody comes to console Hunter. The two become friends and learn of their mutual interest in science. They go on to become college room mates, but in the middle of the semester, Barry's mother is killed in a random mugging. He then decides to devote his life to forensic science.