Shazam! Fury of the Gods: Mark Kermode reviews this superhero film (video).
Our man of many movies, Mark Kermode, is here as the skies darkened and Zeus himself seemed to roar in approval, and we were graced with the lightning-infused return of the world’s mightiest mortal in”Shazam! Fury of the Gods. Well, or something like that. The movie, helmed by David F. Sandberg and written by Henry Gayden and Chris Morgan, brings back Zachary Levi, Asher Angel, Jack Dylan Grazer, and the whole Shazam! family to face off against the Daughters of Atlas.
From the moment Atlas’ offspring break into the Acropolis Museum to steal the Wizard’s broken magical staff, you know this is going to be one mythical ride. The film is an entertaining romp through ancient legends and modern-day Philadelphia, complete with collapsing bridges, a city under a magical dome, and a family that grows closer despite the odds.
This sequel doesn’t shy away from the campy humor we all loved in the original. Freddy’s budding romance with Anne, who is later revealed to be Anthea, the youngest Daughter of Atlas, has all the awkward charm you’d expect from a superhero-obsessed teenager. And when the family encounters a magic sentient pen named Steve, we all can’t help but chuckle at the absurdity of it all.
It’s not all fun and games, though, as the film delves into the real struggle of family dynamics and aging out of the foster care system. But it’s the film’s genuine heart and sense of togetherness that keeps it grounded, even as we’re introduced to the fantastical world of the gods.
One of the standout moments of the movie is the hamburger summit between Billy and Hespera, a Daughter of Atlas. This scene is delightfully absurd, featuring two super-powered beings hashing out their differences over a meal at a fast-food joint.
In the end, Shazam! Fury of the Gods. delivers a fun, witty, and heartfelt addition to the DCEU that leaves us rooting for our favorite foster family. Despite the mixed reviews from critics, the film’s charm, humor, and inherent warmth are enough to send sparks flying.
