Shazam is a Different Kind of Superhero #movie_review

Family matters….
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Billy Batson (Asher Angel) is a troubled fourteen year old. Lost as a child, he longs to find his mother but when he runs afoul of child protective services, he is placed in a foster care home with a group of misfits who have created a family out of their differences.

​The last of ancient protectors must find a champion to wield his powers. He’s sought out so many people but they failed his tests until Billy comes along. Now when Billy says Shazam, he turns into an adult superhero (Zachary Levi).

​As Billy begins to understand his powers, he lets his newfound celebrity go to his head. When bad guy, Dr. Thaddeus Sivana (Mark Strong) comes after him and his family, Billy must find what is important to him in order to save everyone.

​Unlike superhero movies like Superman or Batman, Shazam is a family friendly movie, even for elementary kids. The message about family and heart resonates with the viewers, although some of the bad guys are a little frightening so be sure to know your child. No one wants nightmares.

​As a fan of the 1970’s TV series, I was nervous about how DC would showcase Shazam. I worried it would be too silly and while there is a lot of humor, it reminds me of a child-friendly Ant Man movie. The message isn’t overly pushed but it will remind you to hug your family a little tighter. 

​There are two after-credit sneak peeks you will want to stay for, as well as many nods to other movies from Annabelle, Big, and Batman to Aquaman. Shazam hits the right note of funny and heartwarming. A must see!