Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023) Movie Review

Shazam! Fury of the Gods has a lot to live up to as a studio-produced superhero sequel released in 2023. There's an expectation that the film will follow a certain formula that's been used in many similar movies. However, the makers of the franchise's first film toned down some of the more cliché elements of these movies, making for a more unique experience.

The first Shazam! was successful due to its focus on two adolescent characters, Billy Batson (Asher Angel) and Freddy Freeman (Jack Dylan Grazer). The sequel continues to focus on these characters, as well as their foster family, who are all granted godlike superpowers when they say the magic word "Shazam." The film sees the Marvel Family, as they're known in the comics, fighting against a group of vindictive sorceresses called the Daughters of Atlas, led by Hespera (Helen Mirren) and Kalypso (Lucy Liu).

The film also touches on Billy's anxieties about aging out of his foster family and not knowing his superhero name. He dreams of wooing Wonder Woman and struggles with his feelings of responsibility. Meanwhile, Freddy has a crush on new girl Anthea but fails to build chemistry with her. These hormonal anxieties are relatable and could have been better developed if the film focused more on them.

The big emotional moments in the film lack cornball vigor, but Zachary Levi's portrayal of Shazam makes up for it. He creates a goofy character who's like an actual teenager, lacking a filter or an indoor voice. Levi's performance is arguably the best combination of main character and lead performer in a recent superhero movie.

The film's supporting characters are likable but under-developed, and most of the big action scenes sit there, lacking the punch that the movie needs. The gags could also be sped up and punched up to make them more effective. Ultimately, the film is good enough to reheat some leftovers, but it doesn't quite reach the level of the first film.

Captain Marvel is a difficult character to get right, and DC has struggled to create a successful film adaptation. However, Shazam! Fury of the Gods manages to keep the character's unique charm alive, even if it doesn't quite live up to expectations. The odds never favored another live-action Shazam! film, but this one still manages to entertain.

Overall, while "Shazam! Fury of the Gods" may not be the most groundbreaking or innovative superhero film, it still manages to deliver an entertaining and lighthearted adventure that is worth watching for fans of the genre. The film is not without its flaws, including some underdeveloped characters and a somewhat formulaic plot, but it still manages to capture the charm and humor of the original while adding some new elements to the mix.

One of the strengths of the film is its ensemble cast, which includes a mix of familiar faces and newcomers. Zachary Levi once again shines as the titular hero, bringing his trademark goofiness and energy to the role. He is well-supported by Asher Angel as Billy Batson and Jack Dylan Grazer as Freddy Freeman, who both deliver solid performances as the film's young protagonists. The addition of Helen Mirren and Lucy Liu as the film's main villains is also a welcome one, and both actresses bring their A-game to their respective roles.

However, while the film's cast is strong overall, some of the supporting characters could have used more development. While the film attempts to give each of Billy's foster siblings their own moment to shine, many of them end up feeling like caricatures rather than fully fleshed-out characters. This is especially true for characters like Darla and Pedro, who are given little to do beyond providing comic relief and emotional support for Billy and Freddy.

Despite these flaws, "Shazam! Fury of the Gods" still manages to deliver a fun and entertaining superhero adventure that is sure to please fans of the genre. The film's action scenes are well-staged and visually impressive, and there are plenty of laughs to be had throughout. While the film may not be the most original or groundbreaking superhero film out there, it still manages to capture the spirit and humor of the original while adding some new twists and turns to the mix.

In conclusion, "Shazam! Fury of the Gods" may not be a perfect film, but it still manages to deliver an enjoyable and entertaining superhero adventure that is sure to please fans of the genre. While the film's formulaic plot and underdeveloped characters may hold it back from being truly great, it still manages to capture the charm and humor of the original while adding some new elements to the mix. Overall, "Shazam! Fury of the Gods" is a solid sequel that is well worth watching for fans of the first film and the superhero genre as a whole.