Alright, folks, let’s talk about Black Adam. Released in October 2022, this film finally brings to life one of DC’s most intriguing antiheroes—an ancient Egyptian who was given the powers of the gods but took a pretty dark turn with them. The film kicks off with a quick prologue, setting the stage in Kahndaq, an ancient city oppressed by a ruthless regime. Enter Teth-Adam (Dwayne Johnson), who gains god-like powers but doesn’t quite understand that “superhero” doesn’t mean “supervillain.” Fast forward to modern-day, and Black Adam wakes up after a long slumber (like a 5,000-year nap—anyone else feel that?) and finds himself in a world filled with heroes, which is a problem for the Justice Society of America (JSA). The JSA, led by Hawkman (Aldis Hodge) and accompanied by Doctor Fate (Pierce Brosnan), Atom Smasher (Noah Centineo), and Cyclone (Quintessa Swindell), is tasked with containing Black Adam before he can lay waste to everything in his path.

Now, strap in, because this film takes us on a wild ride filled with action, questionable moral choices, and the question: is Dwayne Johnson too big for the role of Black Adam, or is he just right?

A New Kind of Antihero

First off, let’s give credit where credit is due. Dwayne Johnson has been pushing for this role for over a decade, and his passion shows. Black Adam is not your typical superhero; he’s more like that friend who steals your fries at dinner and doesn’t feel sorry about it. He’s a brutal force, willing to do whatever it takes to protect his people, even if it means laying waste to anyone who stands in his way. And honestly, who can blame him? After being imprisoned for thousands of years, I’d be a little cranky too. Johnson embodies the character with a mix of charm and menace that makes you believe he’s a force to be reckoned with.

The film leans into Black Adam’s antihero status by showcasing his willingness to dish out lethal justice. The action sequences are intense, and the fight choreography is impressive. There’s a level of brutality that you don’t typically see in DC movies, making it feel fresh—like someone finally said, “Hey, let’s let the heroes actually be heroes, but also acknowledge they can be a bit psychotic.”

The Justice Society: Old Heroes, New Tricks

Then we have the Justice Society, a team that feels like they were pulled straight out of a comic book. Hawkman, played by Aldis Hodge, brings a no-nonsense attitude that grounds the movie, serving as the moral compass (well, somewhat) in a world where most people are just trying to out-muscle each other. He’s the classic “I believe in justice” type, even when the odds are stacked against him.

Pierce Brosnan as Doctor Fate is a highlight of the film. With his suave demeanor and deep voice, he brings a sense of gravitas to the role, making him the perfect mentor figure. He’s like the wise old uncle who knows how to throw down but also reminds you to be careful with your powers. The visual effects used for his powers are a standout—imagine if a magic show collided with an action movie and left a trail of glitter in its wake.

Atom Smasher and Cyclone add a youthful energy to the mix, but they’re a little underutilized. Atom Smasher has the potential for comic relief, but the jokes often land flat, while Cyclone’s powers are visually stunning but don’t have enough backstory to make us care about her. It’s like they were invited to the party but didn’t get a chance to show off their dance moves.

The Villain Problem

Now, let’s talk about the villain of the piece, Sabbac. Played by Marwan Kenzari, Sabbac is the embodiment of everything Black Adam stands against, yet he feels a bit one-dimensional. He’s your classic “I want to take over the world” villain without much of a personal connection to the main character. Sure, he has a backstory, but it lacks the depth to make us feel invested in his defeat. It’s like serving up a pizza with no toppings—sure, it’s edible, but where’s the flavor?

The film often suffers from a lack of strong antagonistic presence, which makes the stakes feel a bit low. Black Adam’s confrontations with Sabbac could have been epic, but they often fall flat, lacking the emotional weight we crave. Instead of a climactic showdown, it feels like an extended game of tag—albeit with a lot more explosions.

Pacing and Tone: A Bit of a Roller Coaster

As for the pacing, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. The film rushes through exposition at breakneck speed, leaving little time for character development. One moment you’re introduced to Black Adam’s tragic past, and the next, you’re thrown into a high-octane action scene without much transition. It can feel jarring, like you’ve been dropped into a roller coaster without any safety harness.

However, there are moments where the film slows down, giving us a glimpse of what could have been. There are emotional beats that resonate, especially when Black Adam reflects on his past and the cost of his powers. These moments are where Johnson shines, showcasing his range and reminding us that underneath the superhuman exterior lies a deeply flawed character.

The film’s humor also feels hit-or-miss. While there are a few genuinely funny moments, particularly involving the interactions between the JSA members, some of the jokes feel forced. It’s as if the writers were trying to mimic the humor of other successful superhero films but forgot that timing is everything. There are a few eye-roll-worthy quips that fall flat, pulling you out of the moment instead of enhancing it.

Visuals and Action: A Feast for the Eyes

On the flip side, let’s talk about the visuals. Black Adam is a feast for the eyes. The special effects are top-notch, especially during the action sequences. From Black Adam’s electrifying powers to the JSA’s dynamic combat, the film delivers on the spectacle. It’s got the kind of visuals that make you sit up and take notice, ensuring that every punch feels impactful and every explosion has weight.

The cinematography also shines, capturing the otherworldly aspects of Kahndaq while balancing the gritty reality of its inhabitants. You can feel the tension in the air, especially during the fight scenes, where every blow feels earned. The filmmakers did a fantastic job creating a vibrant world that feels alive, even amidst the chaos.

Final Thoughts: A Step in the Right Direction

In conclusion, Black Adam is a mixed bag, balancing moments of brilliance with some missteps. Dwayne Johnson brings charisma and intensity to the role, giving us a Black Adam that’s both compelling and complex. The action sequences are visually stunning, and the film has a dark edge that sets it apart from other superhero films. However, it suffers from pacing issues, a lack of strong antagonists, and some hit-or-miss humor.

Is it a perfect film? Not by a long shot. But it’s a bold step for DC, pushing the boundaries of what a superhero movie can be and introducing us to a character that’s morally ambiguous and deeply flawed. If you’re looking for something different in the superhero genre, Black Adam may just be the dark ride you’re looking for.

So, if you’re tired of the same old superhero stories where the good guys always win and the bad guys always lose, give Black Adam a shot. Just remember to bring your popcorn and buckle up—it’s going to be a wild ride.