9 Things You Should Know Before Watching DC Newest Superhero Flick: "Shazam!"

Despite a slower start in its cinematic universe, DC has been garnering a growing interest through every of their release, especially blockbusters Aquaman and Wonder Woman. Now, Shazam! finally hit the theatres yesterday. Will this new superhero carry the torch and leave the audience in awe like the previous hits?

1. Things to know before watching

Shazam! features a DC superhero with a namesake with some powers like flight, super-strength, and super-speed. It sounds familiar to Superman, but unlike the Man Of Steel who's an alien, his powers are magic-based. The movie serves as an introduction of the hero Shazam to the world, retelling how Billy Batson has the powers given by the wizard Shazam.

Every time Billy would say the wizard's name, he transforms into an older version of himself, with the powers of different Greek Mythology deities. Shazam, or S.H.A.Z.A.M, stands for Solomon, Hercules, Atlas, Zeus, Achilles, and Mercury, who in turn would grant Billy: Wisdom, strength, stamina, the ability to fly and conjure lightning, courage, and speed.

2. How good is it?

The DC Extended Universe distinct itself from Marvel by usually being more broody and dark. However, Shazam! offers an upbeat, 90s feel. The movie's story is predictable, and the villain, Dr. Sivana, is dull.

However, the main actor, Zachary Levi, really brings out the character of Billy Batson and the overall feel-good vibe of Shazam! gets along well with the audience. As we follow Billy and his journey to control his newfound abilities, the audience can't help but laugh at the antics and well-delivered punchlines. Humour is the biggest strength of Shazam!.

3. This movie is rated PG-13

Parents taking their kids to the theatre should be aware of the age ratings. Although being tamed for DC, Shazam! is still a superhero movie. Hence, violence, curse words, battle sequences and even deaths. Nothing is gruesome and extreme, but it should be known in advance.

4. Should I take the kids?

Any child would adore this movie. Its humour isn't restricted for adults. This story of a kid-turns-superhero will fill your kids with amazing ideas. As mentioned above, there is some expected violence. Dr. Sivana has a gang of horrifying monsters, and in one instance, they brought a lot of havoc and destruction. If you don't want your kids to be scared, take them to the bathroom when you see the boardroom towards the middle of the film.

5. The cast

Zachary Levi was born to play Shazam. Watching him, you may wonder if he is just a kid in an adult's body. Besides, Shazam!'s cast of young actors will blow you away. Shazam's sidekick and best friend Freddie Freeman, played by Jack Dylan Grazer, did a great job supporting the superhero while not being overshadowed. However, Faithe Herman, who represents Darla Dudley, in some scenes overshines Shazam himself.

6. After-credit scenes

Every superhero movies nowadays add the last dash of spice for the audience after the credits roll. Shazam! has a foreshadow for a sequel, and keeping with the playful tone of the whole movie puts a satire scene at the end.

7. Verdict?

Shazam! is undeniably up there with Wonder Woman for the best DC movie so far. It even edges out Aquaman. With Shazam!, DC shows the world they can do comedy just as well as their opposition: Marvel.

>>> Related post: DCEU's Latest Superhero "Shazam!" Tops Box Office In Opening Weekend With $159.1 Million