All glory be, DC fans. We’re getting a superhero movie about a character who isn’t known for being overtly edgy or broody because, well, most of the time he’s a child. Behind-the-scenes looks at the character design have given us insight into how well DC’s Spring 2019 film Shazam! is shaping up. So far, it looks like it’s going to be a winner!
Shazam! follows the journey of Billy Batson (Asher Angel), a boy who is bestowed with the wisdom of Solomon, the strength of Hercules, the stamina of Atlas, the power of Zeus, the courage of Achilles and speed of Mercury — S.H.A.Z.A.M. And with this power he transforms into the adult superhero, Shazam (Zachary Levi). Like any 14-year-old, Billy can have fun with his newly gifted powers, but he will ultimately have to learn to control them if he wants to combat the malevolence of Dr. Thaddeus Sivana (Mark Strong).
That’s not to say that there aren’t concerns about the film. Director David Sandberg most recently put the horror movies Lights Out and Annabelle: Creation under his belt, both of which are a far cry from a superhero action flick. In fact, it appears that most of Sandberg’s work strays from the action or fantasy genre, which, on paper is a bit troublesome. But because he fared well with the other movies he directed, I’m going to let myself get my hopes up.
And let’s be real, DC fans generally have a gut anxiety reaction when considering how the next superhero will be presented, despite how excited we may be to see the action on the silver screen. From conversations I’ve had with fans in the past, concerns stemmed mostly from the physical presentation of the character to the actor/scriptwriter’s ability to capture the character’s personality. And I think photos from the Shazam! set can quell both those fears!
Shazam’s costume is arguably the closest replica of a comic book hero to date. My first thought when I saw these pictures was, “He looks EXACTLY how I imagined he would!” Unlike the intricate costumes of other Justice League members, Shazam rocks a simple, minimalist outfit with just enough flare to make it flashy. While the other JLA members have reasons for their intricate getups, Shazam really has no need for complex armor or gadgetry, be it because of his origin as a hero or his powers. So, if it looks plain to you, good! It looks like something a child would dream up, and that’s perfect for a kid like Billy Batson!
Of course, it also looks a little cheesy. But come on, people, we’re not paying $20 per ticket to see Billy Batson turn into some average Joe. A simple costume and some awesome special effects can go a long way!
The point is, right now it looks like Shazam is going to get a great balance with Billy Batson’s character. If the costume alone exudes such a combo of childhood and heroism, things are looking good for the rest of the film. Zachary Levi looks to be living up to expectations as a beloved superhero!
Shazam! is set to hit theatres on April 5, 2019.
For updates and news about the movie, follow me or TGON on Twitter or check out our Tumblr blog!
