A
cross between Big and Superman, Shazam! is a fun loving superhero
tale that is a refreshing take (from former horror director David F.
Sandberg) on a comic book hero from DC Comics.
Set
in 1974 and fast forwarding to the present, a powerful wizard seeks a human
worthy of assuming superpowers against the Seven Deadly Sins who are desperate
to wreak havoc. After growing up shuttled among foster homes, 14 year old Billy
Batson has spent his life searching for his real mom. His journey leads him to a foster home, where
he learns the meaning of a real family. When he is transformed into a costumed,
adult alter ego, Shazam (Zachary Levi well
cast), he must learn to control his super powers and do battle with a
deadly foe. It’s the ultimate battle between good versus evil.
The film never
takes itself too seriously compared
to earlier, dark DC Comic films and makes for a great origin story with a bit
of Harry Potter vibe. It has heart with its themes of belonging and the importance of having a loving, supportive family. It’s
about Billy discovering his own truths and learning about the responsibilities
of his newfound superpowers and what makes a hero. The film succeeds in
focusing on the effects of abuse and trauma on children as well as depicting
bullying and peer pressure in school.
Though
the climactic battle goes on a bit too long, the film never ceases to entertain
as it balances the action with very funny moments especially when Shazam tests
the limits of his extraordinary abilities. There are a couple of neat, surprise
twists toward the end and DC Universe Easter eggs sprinkled throughout as well
as two post-credit scenes.
***
½ of **** stars
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