Shazam! – Review

IIt’s not perfect, but the good outweighs the bad more often than not. With a fun story, boundless energy, and an irresistible sense of wonder this is easily one of the best-installment of the DCEU so far. (Not counting out Wonder Woman)

Direction: I feel like David Samberg is the DCEU’s take on Thor Ragnarok or Guardians of the Galaxy (other world type story). He’s not really known for much past some horror, which made him an initially odd choice for this movie; a choice that paid off extremely well. He helps shine some light into this world, but doesn’t underplay the action. His direction and coordination through framing helps us laugh and, in some cases, feel the punches. The action isn’t shaky, like the other DCEU installments and due to the bright vibrant colors, we really know what’s happening, where it’s happening, and who it’s happening to. Well done.

The writing can be uneven at times, but definitely fun. It’s a story that converts Billy Batson’s origin into a modern-day retelling with some elements of Big in there. The humor is timed well and consistently funny; a lot of the jokes and humor from side charactershelp the story obtain its brighter feel. The relationships are extremely well written and heartfelt.

Performances: I swear, Zachary Levi was born to play Shazam! He carried childlike enthusiasm effortlessly. Mark Strong played a menacing villain. The child actors, especially Jack Dylan Fraiser was my favorite of the bunch and seeing his super hero version was wonderful with perfect cast of Adam Brody (The OC)

Basically go see this movie. This is easily the best incarnation of any superhero in the DCEU

IF they decide to play it right Shazam, Wonder Woman, and Aquaman team-up movie could be really cool.

8/10