New Line Cinema and DC Films’ Shazam! (dubbed from the Hollywood film of the same name; UA) is the story of a young boy who is given superpowers which convert him to Shazam. It is a superhero film.
Billy Batson (Asher Angel) is arrested by child services and he ends up sharing a room with Freddy Freeman (Jack Dylan Grazer), a paraplegic. Billy meets Shazam (Zachary Levi) who gives him the superpowers he possesses.
Soon, Sivana (Mark Strong) confronts Shazam/Billy. In his childhood, Sivana had freed the seven deadly sins of pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath and sloth from the Rock of Eternity, allowing them to use his body as a vehicle to escape. He had killed his father and brother for the abuse he had suffered as a child.
Henry Gayden and Darren Lemke have penned a fairly interesting story. Henry Gayden’s screenplay is engaging and keeps the audience’s interest alive for the major part. But the drama does get confusing at times.
Zachary Levi acts ably as Shazam. Djimon Hounsou is good as the Wizard Shazam. Mark Strong impresses in the role of Sivana. Jack Dylan Grazer lends decent support as Freddy Freeman. Asher Angel is good in the role of Billy Batson. Others provide able support.
David F. Sandberg’s direction is good and keeps the audience engrossed. Maxime Alexandre’s cinematography is of a fine standard. Benjamin Wallfisch’s background music is effective. Jennifer Spence’s production designing is of a good standard. Michel Aller’s editing is crisp. Dubbing is proper.
On the whole, Shazam! is a fair entertainer. The English original, also released simultaneously, will fare better at the turnstiles.
Released on 5-4-’19 at Gemini (daily 5 shows) and other cinemas of Bombay thru Warner Bros. Pictures (India) Pvt. Ltd. Publicity: so-so. Opening: ordinary. …….Also released all over. Opening was on the lower side. The English original opened quite well.