David F. Sandberg, who prior to directing the original ‘Shazam’ was more known for his acclaimed horror films ‘Annabelle: Creation’ and ‘Lights Out,’ returns to helm ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’. The first one nailed every humorous and emotional beat and, despite being a cinematic underdog, turned out to be one the DC Extended Universe’s best. Its sequel isn’t quite as streamline as the original nor hits its high notes- but it is a worthy follow up.
‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’ is a bigger film and that frequently works against it. From a narrative standpoint it is still supposed to exist in the current established DCEU. Superman, Wonder woman, Black Adam etc. all exist in this universe and are absent in events that they should be and could be logistically be helping with. Warner Discovery's decision to go bigger without a corresponding budget sacrifices the quality of other technical aspects in the film as well. Regardless, it is a fun film and at least retains most of the spirit and energy of the original.
There is nothing truly spectacular in terms of action sequences or set pieces and the special effects are inconsistent, which goes back to Warner Discovery skimping on the budget.
‘Shazam: Fury of the Gods’ is also riddled with tropes as well as a lot of ham fisted world building, but nothing that makes the narrative a slog in any way. The world building also feels irrelevant since Warner Discovery is ending their current DC cinematic universe and attempting to reboot it again.
One of the highlights of ‘Shazam: Fury of the Gods’ is the young cast who deliver some impressive performances despite occasional superfluous goofiness. There are also several surprisingly dark moments too that effectively add drama.
‘Shazam: Fury of the Gods’ is a flurry of elements that aren’t always gelling, but with a strong cast, enough humor and heart, it makes for a more-often-than-not enjoyable movie going experience.
MY STAR RATING 3/5 STARS
Visit the Brown Deer Public Library to check out other films from the DCEU.
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