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All of the images in this post were taken directly from the film properties.
Let's talk about "Black Adam," the film from the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). As a fan of superhero movies, I was initially somewhat skeptical, especially given the ups and downs of this genre lately. However, "Black Adam" turned out to be quite entertaining and exciting. Here's why.
Story: Simple Yet Effective
The plot of "Black Adam" is fairly straightforward. It's essentially an origin story, introducing us to Teth Adam, a character who received god-like powers 5,000 years ago and awakens in the present day. The story revolves around his reemergence and the chaos he brings to the modern DC world. We see familiar faces like Amanda Waller, who previously assembled the Suicide Squad and is now forming the Justice Society to confront Adam.
The narrative is easy to follow, despite a few flashbacks to 5,000 years ago that are crucial for keeping the storyline comprehensible. The film is largely set in one location, which works well for this introductory tale. Although there are some unanswered questions, "Black Adam" is a solid introduction to the character's background.
Cinematography: Action-Packed
This film is a non-stop action fest. From start to finish, it's filled with intense fight scenes and electrifying sequences (literally, with Black Adam's lightning powers). He's not your typical hero; he's more of a vengeful god, willing to do anything to exact his revenge. The continuous battle scenes kept me captivated, reminiscent of the epic fights in "Man of Steel."
Watching this in a theater was the right choice. The battles and destruction in Kahndaq felt more powerful on the big screen. Its 125-minute runtime is packed with combat scenes that keep the audience on edge. Brief dialogues are usually followed by more action, making the film intense and somewhat exhausting.
Characters: A Mixed Bag
Black Adam himself is an intriguing character. He's a god, yet very human in his motivations and actions, which can sometimes feel a bit silly. Nonetheless, this makes him an interesting anti-hero. The Justice Society members are well portrayed, each fitting their roles perfectly. They don't try to steal the spotlight but complement the story well. Pierce Brosnan as Doctor Fate stands out, bringing wisdom and a fatherly presence to the team.
Overall: Better Than Expected
I watched this film with low expectations, especially given the mixed reviews circulating. Rotten Tomatoes gave it a 38%, while IMDb rated it 6.2. However, I found myself often impressed throughout the movie. There are some unanswered questions and a few plot holes, such as the absence of the Justice League when Adam wreaks havoc and some inconsistencies with Amanda Waller's actions. But these didn't detract from my enjoyment of the film.
The humor in the film, though sparse, is well-placed, and the visual effects are impressive. Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson delivers a solid performance, capturing the complexity of Teth Adam. His journey from anticipation to finally bringing this character to the screen since 2007 deserves applause.
Conclusion
"Black Adam" might not be the best superhero film, but it is certainly an enjoyable one to watch. The action scenes are top-notch, and the introduction of the Justice Society adds a new dynamic to the DCEU. While it may not be on par with Zack Snyder's "Justice League" or even "Shazam!," it stands alone as an entertaining and visually appealing film.
For those who might be tired of the superhero genre, especially with the new direction of the MCU, "Black Adam" offers a refreshing change. The film is darker, more intense, and doesn't get bogged down by excessive woke agendas. With characters like Doctor Fate, portrayed by Pierce Brosnan, adding depth, and Johnson's passionate performance as Black Adam, this is a promising start for the new DCEU.
In conclusion, "Black Adam" might not be perfect, but it's a solid addition to the superhero genre. Full of action, stunning visuals, and introducing potentially exciting new characters. Let's hope the DCEU continues to improve and evolve with this new direction!
Thank you for reading this far into my article. Hopefully, there is something you can get from what I have shared.