Superman/Shazam!: The Return of Black Adam
Directed by Joaquim Dos Santos
- animation
- action
- adventure
- science fiction
The story
Chosen the world’s protector against the Seven Deadly Enemies of Man – pride, envy, greed, hatred, selfishness, laziness and injustice – young Billy Batson accepts his destiny as Captain Marvel. Battling alongside Superman against nefarious Black Adam, Billy soon discovers the challenge super heroes ultimately face: is it revenge or justice?
What it’s like
Hand-drawn superhero animation with bold primary colours, clean inked outlines and flat, saturated palettes: the sky is a clear, cartoon blue, Metropolis gleams in daylight and Shazam's lightning flashes fill the frame with bright white and yellow bursts. The camera moves briskly through wide establishing shots and quick cuts during fights, with the action staged for clarity rather than grit. The sound is orchestral and bombastic, with rousing brass and swelling strings during flights and punches, and dialogue delivered with easy, wry humour between the heroes. Its vibe is brisk, bright and playful, a Saturday-morning-style spectacle with a warm family-friendly heart. Pacing is steady and energetic, with a clear shape to its story of a boy learning what heroism costs and why vengeance is not the same as justice. The mood stays light and optimistic, and the emotional register is earnest rather than dark. Intensity is moderate: there are punches, explosions, energy blasts and cartoon peril, with some sustained superpowered brawling, but no gore and little real threat. It suits a weekend afternoon, a kids' movie night or a comfort watch for anyone who wants colourful superhero action without anything bleak. It is for viewers who enjoy big, uncomplicated heroics and a gentle lesson in choosing right over revenge.
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