I watched Shazam! and I liked it. 3.5/5
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“Shazam!” brings a refreshing breeze to the often formulaic world of superhero films, offering a delightful mix of humor, heart, and a genuine celebration of the superhero mythos. Directed by David F. Sandberg, this installment in the DC Extended Universe diverges from the brooding tones of its predecessors, opting for a lighthearted and family-friendly approach.
The film centers on Billy Batson, a 14-year-old foster child played by Asher Angel, who, upon uttering the magic word “Shazam,” transforms into an adult superhero portrayed by Zachary Levi. The narrative unfolds with a classic “kid in a superhero’s body” premise, and this switch provides ample room for comedic exploration and heartfelt moments.
Zachary Levi shines as the titular character, capturing the exuberance and naivety of a teenager thrust into a super-powered adult’s body. Levi’s charismatic performance adds a layer of infectious joy to the film. His interactions with Jack Dylan Grazer, who plays Billy’s foster brother Freddy Freeman, are a particular highlight, creating a buddy dynamic that forms the emotional core of the story.
The film’s humor is one of its strongest assets. “Shazam!” embraces its comedic potential with gusto, delivering a barrage of jokes, physical comedy, and witty banter. Sandberg taps into the inherent humor of a teenage boy grappling with newfound powers and responsibilities, and the film’s self-awareness adds a meta-layer to its humor, poking fun at superhero tropes and conventions.
The family dynamic at the heart of “Shazam!” adds depth to its narrative. Billy’s journey of self-discovery is mirrored in his relationships with his foster siblings, each of whom is dealing with their own insecurities and desires for acceptance. The film successfully weaves these personal stories into the broader superhero narrative, elevating it beyond a mere origin story.
Mark Strong, portraying the villainous Dr. Thaddeus Sivana, brings gravitas to the role. Sivana’s character is grounded in a desire for power and recognition, providing a compelling counterpoint to Billy’s journey. The film, however, could have delved deeper into Sivana’s backstory to create a more nuanced antagonist.
The action sequences in “Shazam!” are competent, with a mix of spectacle and character-driven moments. The film excels in balancing the grandiose spectacle of superhero battles with the more intimate struggles of its characters. The use of Shazam’s various powers is visually dynamic, contributing to the film’s energetic pacing.
While “Shazam!” is a breath of fresh air, it isn’t without its flaws. The pacing falters in the middle act, and certain plot elements feel rushed. The film’s eagerness to jump between humor, action, and emotional beats can lead to tonal inconsistency, but its infectious spirit and genuine heart ultimately compensate for these shortcomings.
“Shazam!” also embraces its comic book origins through Easter eggs and nods to the larger DC universe. The film’s commitment to maintaining a distinct tone within the broader DCEU adds to its appeal, positioning it as a standalone gem that doesn’t rely heavily on interconnected narratives.
In conclusion, “Shazam!” is a delightful addition to the superhero genre. Its winning formula of humor, heart, and an endearing cast elevates it beyond the typical origin story. While it may stumble in pacing and tonal consistency, the film’s infectious joy and family-centric narrative make it a standout in the DC Extended Universe. “Shazam!” is a testament to the versatility of superhero storytelling, proving that, sometimes, a lighthearted approach can be the most powerful.