Shazam! (2019)

	Also Known As: -
	Year of first release: 2019
	Director: David F. Sandberg (Annabelle: Creation)
	Actors: Zachary Levi, Mark Strong (Kingsman: The Secret Service), Asher Angel
	Country: USA
	Genre: Comedy, Action
	Conditions of visioning: 28.08.2019, in-flight entertainment 10" screen.
Synopsis: While looking for his origins, Billy Batson (Angel), a 14-year old street-smart foster kid is called on by a wizard who gives him superpowers. To use them, he turns to an adult body when he shouts the name: Shazam!
Review: Aren't you tired of super-hero movies? In a market dominated by Marvel and its MCU, DC Comics is struggling. After the poor results of Justice League I was not sure they would go on. In fact they will after the moderate successes of Wonder Woman, Aquaman and this Shazam! It follows a different style, a bit like Deadpool for Marvel but while that fourth-wall-breaker is not part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Shazam! is part of the DCEU. Many references are made to the events of past movies in that Universe. The fresh location in Philadelphia also makes the movie prone to mention the Rocky franchise. It is quite original to follow the story of that kid with great powers, powers that he uses to make a few bucks or impress people until the bad guy comes along. Superpowers aside, the story reminds a lot of Big with Tom Hanks that I have recently seen, there is even a nod to it with the piano scene in a toy store. There are some funny moments, often brought by the dynamic between Billy/Shazam and his foster brother Freddy. The phase of superpowers tests and youtube uploads (with crazy name attempts for the hero) is pretty good. The Villain is not extremely original and the confrontations predictable, but what makes this movie special and different is that it revolves around family. All the action happening around is just entertainment, but the heart of the movie, it message is about family. I liked the humor in the movie, not too dumb or pushed, and in the end all elements mix well together. A sequel is in the plans. Note that the name Shazam is in fact an acronym, mix of the name of the Gods to which the hero borrows powers. See the snapshot at the end of this post. Don't be confused by the mention to Captain Marvel, DC Comics named this character like that at first but changed it when it made more sense for Marvel's version to keep the name.
Rating: 6 /10