Shazam! is an American superhero film that grossed $361.7 million over a budget of between $80 and $100 million, becoming the 6th-highest-grossing film of 2019. It’s the 7th film in the DC Extended Universe franchise. It’s rated M for mature themes and action violence (in Australia). The following are the 10 most recent IMDb reviews for the film.
As some user stated in Aquaman, Shazam is a big step of DC in the right direction
Now Shazam bring us a (good) childish, lighthearted superhero that every kid wants to be. It is a family, funny and distracted movie, that presents Billy Batson, a kid that is gifted with a immeasurable power.
Yes, of course, still with some predictability that we see in most superhero movies today. Yes, the villain is lame. Yes, it is childish (I don’t take serious who complains about the movie being silly, do you people do not watch the trailer? Spending money in this is your fault). But I’m sick of this entire DCEU negativity and I think that Shazam is leading the extended universe in a new path of glory.
Anyways, most of DC plot errors and cast mistakes were fixed in Shazam, that leaves us with a really good film of its category.
Funny Movie But Not That Memorable
Think hollywood isn’t censored? This review is shadowbanned.
Warning: Spoilers
Billy’s character develops so well throughout the movie as you see him make closure with the past and embrace the new. Family bonds begin to be made and their relationship have a bright future.
Shazam brings drama, comedy, and action into one big fun movie.
A teenage foster child named Billy (Asher Angel) was magically chosen by an ancient wizard (Djimon Hounsou) where he was given the power to transform into an adult superhero known as Shazam (Zachery Levi) every time he shouts his name. Now, with help from his fanatic foster brother Freddie (Jack Dylan Grazer), Shazam must learn to control his new powers while protecting the world from the evil Dr. Sivana (Mark Strong).
Hearing this synopsis alone, the story sounds conceptually generic with some cliches you’ve seen before in most superhero movies. However, in terms of execution, the story works pretty well. Imagine the concept of the Tom Hanks classic “Big” combined with the campy nature of the Sam Raimi “Spider-Man” movies. It SOUNDS crazy but once you SEE it, it works. The movie also has good use of foreshadowing when it comes to the story and characters.
Horror film director David F. Sandberg really surprised me on how much fun and humor you could make into a superhero flick. Throughout this movie, there will be familiar and refreshing jokes that will make you laugh non-stop. Sometimes, you’ll come across references from previous Sandberg and DC movies. The action scenes are energetic and blends well with the comedic tone.
The cast did a phenomenal job with their performances throughout the movie. Asher Angel captures the rebellious yet kind-hearted nature of a child while Zachary Levi provides big laughs as both the “child-trapped-in-grown-up’s body” trope and a mighty superhero. Billy’s foster family are so likable and charming, especially with Jack Dylan Grazer cleverly portraying a fanboy who mentors an adult superhero.
As for Mark Strong, his role as the villain would be debatable among others. On one hand, he plays a typical power-hungry villain who seeks Shazam’s powers for reasons I will not give away. On the other hand, once you do see why, you will feel sympathy towards his character.
Did I forget to mention it takes place around Christmas? Ever since “Iron Man 3”, you will get a feeling that this movie will become a new holiday classic for unique reasons.
Overall, if you’re in the mood for a superhero film with fun and laughs, this is a must-watch. Being released on the same month as “Avengers: Endgame”, it is considered an appetizer before settling on “Endgame” as the main course.
Shazam!!!
RATING: *** 1/2 out of **** stars (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
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