First of all, let’s face it– 2023 hasn’t been a good year for superhero films. Upar se the one in question today is a DC movie. Yaha Marvel movies sahi se nahi chal rahe, bechare DC ka kya hi hoga? Aise time pe, it is kinda brave for Warner Bros. to swoop “Shazam! Fury of the God” into the superhero scene, as it tries to recreate the magic of the first “Shazam” despite all odds against it. But does it succeed though? It kinda does, and then it kinda doesn’t (??).
Plot
Our boy Billy Batson, is back with his buddy Freddy Freeman. They’re still your typical teenage troublemakers who can turn into superheroes just by shouting “Shazam!”. In this round, they face off against a trio of revengeful sorceresses, the Daughters of Atlas, Hespera and Kalypso. Oh, and there’s a third Daughter, but ye raaz movie dekhne par hi pata chalega. Also, this time, add to the threat Billy’s “Marvel Family” issues, those teenage hormones, and his never-ending quest for a superhero name. Meanwhile, Philadelphia still can’t quite figure out who these caped kids are. Lmao, ngl pretty smart of the studios to rename them to “Philly Fiascos” cuz agar “Marvel Family” rakhte toh lag jaani thi unki. Gossip opportunity missed, shit.
Performances
Zachary Levi, our lovable goofball, takes center stage as Shazam, aka Captain Marvel. And let’s be honest, he understands the assignment. He’s the heart and soul of the “Shazam” movies, delivering the kind of teenage awkwardness and enthusiasm that we all secretly love. Adam Brody, aka “Super Freddy,” adds his own twist as a grown-up kid discovering the fck ups of adulting (us Brody bhai us). But, I thought Helen Mirren and Lucy Liu as Kalypso lacked the gravity of deadly villains. Idk, I just didn’t find the stakes to be high enough, and maybe one of the reasons was their performance. Baaki ki cast toh theek hi hai, but it feels like they are just there to tick boxes.
Direction and Writing
Director David F. Sandberg returns from the first film, and he makes sure the heart of the first film is kept intact in the sequel. Gotta give it to him for not getting influenced by the over-the-top nature of superhero movies these days, and keeping it fun and simple. He keeps the tone light and the humor flowing, ensuring that the characters’ quirkyness never end. The writing, although was a little bland in my opinion. Yeah, the humour and stuff was good, but the movie was clearly lacking substance for it to be 2 hours long. But yeah, Sandberg’s approach strikes a balance between the comedic and dramatic elements, so kaam chal jaata hai.
Screenplay and Cinematography
One thing that I liked about the movie is that it isn’t just about the punches; it also delves into the challenges of growing up. Billy’s fear of outgrowing his foster family really gets you in the feels, adding depth to his character. And then there’s Freddy, who makes you go us bro us with his relatable struggles. Wasn’t expecting it in a “Shazam” movie, but the fact that they showed everyone’s vulnerable side made it a better watch. Cinematically, the movie keeps things bright and colorful, which is a good break from the dark and gloomy DC vibe. But, neither do the stakes of the movie don’t feel high nor does the action keep you at the edge of your seat. And that is disappointing.
So, what’s the bottom line? “Shazam! Fury of the Gods” might not be a game-changer in the superhero universe, but it sure knows how to have a good time. It keeps the spirit of the 2019 “Shazam!” alive with its light-hearted vibe and comedic moments. But, I think they went a little too much into preserving the essence of the first hilm cuz this one doesn’t seem serious at all. The stakes don’t seem high and the action is pretty average. But yeah, it will bring a smile on your face. Wait for the OTT release, I don’t think it is worth going to the theatres for.
