Blue Beetle: the DC superhero version of Iron Man? (film review)

Alright, folks, let’s address the elephant in the room. “Blue Beetle” had a lot going against it. I mean, come on, a hero most of us had to Google, no A-listers to flaunt, and it’s part of a cinematic universe that’s seen better days. Oh, and did I mention it’s released during the superhero movie recession? But here’s the twist: it’s actually pretty darn good!

First off, hats off to Xolo Maridueña. Who knew that the kid from the block could pull off a superhero role with such finesse? He’s Jaime Reyes, a fresh grad who’s just trying to help his family, and then bam! Alien scarab. Classic Tuesday, right? And let’s not forget the supporting cast. Adriana Barraza as the loving Nana, Damián Alcázar as the heartwarming dad, and Bruna Marquezine as the love interest with a twist. But the real scene-stealer? Susan Sarandon as Victoria Kord. She’s not just your typical villain; she’s got layers, ambition, and a wardrobe to die for.

The plot? It’s a rollercoaster. From frozen tundras to tropical islands, from family drama to high-octane battles, “Blue Beetle” keeps you on your toes. And can we talk about that mid-credits scene? Ted Kord is alive? Mind. Blown.

Now, I won’t sugarcoat it. The box office numbers were… underwhelming. But hey, even Warner Bros. blamed it on Tropical Storm Hilary. And honestly, it’s their loss. Because beneath the unknown hero and the lack of big names, “Blue Beetle” is a gem waiting to be discovered.

So, if you’re tired of the same old caped crusaders and want a fresh take on the superhero genre, give “Blue Beetle” a shot. It’s a heartwarming tale of family, destiny, and a bug that’s more than just a bug. And who knows? You might just find your new favorite hero.