Considering going to the movies to see Shazam! Fury of the Gods? Here’s a spoiler-free review.
In Shazam 2, the Shazam Family (also known as the “Philadelphia fiascos”) must prevent the Daughters of Atlas (also known as Hespera, Kalypso, and Anthea), an ancient trio, from occupying Philadelphia and ultimately the entire world. Even if it results in mayhem and destruction, the Daughters want to recover the stolen powers that belonged to their father. The Shazam Family must prevent the Daughters from using the Wizard’s staff, a weapon that has the potential to absorb the family’s abilities and give the Daughters control of the entire planet. A Magic Tree, a Golden Apple, and a Seed of Life with the power to end the world are also featured in the film.
So is it worthwhile to see Shazam! Fury of the Gods?
The 2019 Shazam flick received plaudits for having a more upbeat tone than the darker, previous DCEU movies. The second part is essentially the same. The film is enjoyable. In contrast to other movies where the humor seems forced, this one’s humor flows organically. While having a straightforward superhero storyline, the film does include themes that teach important life lessons.
Billy Batson, our boy, struggles with imposter syndrome and issues of abandonment, to name a few. Superheroes frequently experience impostor syndrome. They question their ability to use the talents bestowed upon them. Billy isn’t an outlier. He questions his ability to lead the Shazam family and whether he is deserving of being the Wizard Shazam’s chosen champion throughout the entire movie.
Billy experienced issues with his family as well, including abandonment. As was revealed in the first movie, he spent years looking for his mother and evaded various foster homes. With the Shazam family’s help, he ultimately tracked down his mother, but she declined to keep him since she thought her new partner wouldn’t let him live with them. As a result, Billy in the second movie clings to his foster family too tightly out of concern that they will soon desert him as well.
The movie also addresses themes associated with growing up, such as independence. Freddy sets out to be a superhero by himself because he’s been trying to earn independence by doing things without Billy. While preparing to attend college, Mary hoped to earn some freedom as well. While there is no guarantee their foster parents, Rosa and Victor Vásquez, will keep them, she muses about turning 18 and aging out of the foster system and advises Billy to do the same. Billy is hesitant to do so because it would require him to say goodbye to his foster family.
In addition, while Pedro comes to terms with his sexuality, Freddy experiments with young love with Ann, and also deals with bullies.
The degree of action in this movie is average. Shazam is depicted in all his might as he attempts to stop the Daughters of Atlas (specifically, Kalypso and her CGI dragon). Shazam is seen with his lightning powers fully charged. This was enjoyable viewing.
Powerful entities like the Daughters also add to the action. The team’s leader is Hespera. By whispering in someone’s ear, Kalypso can use her “Power of Chaos” to take control of their mind. Due to Anthea’s “Power of Axis,” the environment can change around her.
A number of legendary creatures also make an appearance, and as for the remaining action sequences, most of them basically feature feats of superhuman strength, speed, and flying prowess. Yeah, and using unicorns to put an end to pandemonium.
Yes. Shazam! Fury of the Gods is an excellent family film that is enjoyable and amusing to see. Even though it may not be the best superhero movie ever made, this one will undoubtedly make you chuckle while also teaching you important life lessons. It’s a solid solo movie with a plot that doesn’t really connect to the other DC movies. Prepare to be amused, possibly even cry, and anticipate a significant cameo.
Shazam! Fury of the Gods is in theaters right now.
