One-Line Review: Shazam! makes a grand entry into the DC universe as a genuinely great superhero movie.
Shazam Youtube Trailer
Cast: Zachary Levy, Mark Strong, etc.
Release Date: April 05, 2019
Director: David S Sandberg
Kid-friendly DC adventure is enjoyably old school
~ The Guardian
Introduction
Shazam! tells the story of a troubled teenager who is gifted the ability to transform into a god-like hero, forcing him to figure out his new powers with hilarious results.
Our rating for Shazam! is 7/10.
Summary
The story begins in 1974 with a young boy named Thaddeus Sivana. While in a car with his abusive father and brother, he is magically transported to the Rock of Eternity, a temple in another dimension. There, an ancient wizard named Shazam explains he is searching for someone with a pure heart to become his champion and inherit his power.
The wizard is cautious because his last champion released the Seven Deadly Sins into the world. When Shazam sees that Thaddeus is easily tempted by the Sins, he sends the boy back, which leads to a car accident. For years, Thaddeus is pursued by the Sins, who promise him power in exchange for their freedom.
In the present day, we meet Billy Batson, a foster kid who repeatedly runs away to search for his birth parents. Meanwhile, the adult Thaddeus finally returns to the Rock of Eternity and allows the Sins to use him as their vessel. As a last resort, the wizard Shazam summons Billy, transfers his powers to him, and then fades away.
Now, whenever Billy says the word “Shazam,” he transforms into a super-powered adult. He confides in Freddy, his new foster brother and a superhero fanatic, who helps him test his new abilities and figure out what it means to be a hero.
Review
After a string of less successful films, Shazam! emerged as a clear winner from the DC universe and a worthy superhero movie. This “kid-friendly” film captured a wide audience with its interesting plot and casting. What works best for Shazam! is that it’s hilarious and delivers big on wholesome entertainment.
Zachary Levi was exceptional as Shazam, giving the right kind of performance to make the audience love the character. He convincingly portrayed a teenager stuck in an adult’s body, and his chemistry with Jack Dylan Grazer (who plays Billy’s sidekick, Freddy) made them a fantastic duo.
A superhero film is only as interesting as its powers, and Shazam! is unique in the way Billy discovers his abilities and learns to switch between his normal and super-powered self. The film’s tone, direction, and writing are all perfectly in sync, making it a great watch. The most pleasant surprise, however, is the film’s emotional depth, which connects with all kinds of viewers and makes the movie genuinely heartfelt.
Conclusion
Shazam! is a well-made superhero movie that packs a perfect ratio of fun and laughter.
