Opened: March 17, 2023

Directed by: David F. Sandberg

Starring: Zachary Levi, Asher Angel, Jack Dylan Grazer, Rachel Zegler, Adam Brody, Grace Caroline Currey, Ross Butler, D. J. Cotrona, Jovan Armand, Meagan Good, Faithe Herman, Djimon Hounsou, Marta Milans, Cooper Andrews, Gal Gadot, Jennifer Holland, Steve Agee, Mark Strong, Rizwan Manji, P.J. Byrne, Diedrich Bader, Lucy Liu & Helen Mirren

Though Shazam! Fury of the Gods has a predictable storyline that’s been done before, it serves as a solid sequel with a deep emotional core for one of DC Comics’ stronger film adaptations.

Two years after Billy Batson (Zachary Levi/Asher Angel) discarded the broken Wizard’s staff, the daughters of Atlas (Helen Mirren, Lucy Liu & Rachel Zegler) have it mended so they can restore their true powers.

Though charming and full of excitement, Levi struggles matching Angel’s personality, but the sibling counterparts get more time to shine throughout. Adam Brody’s superhero Freddy is cocky and funny, which matches Jack Dylan Grazer’s regular Freddy perfectly.

All three actresses portraying the daughters of Atlas are phenomenal additions to the cast. They harness their strengths differently, which allows for a complex trio of villains.

Final say: Beware – several parts may cause tears. ★★★☆☆