General Information

• Director: Jaume Collet-Serra
• Main Cast: Dwayne Johnson (Black Adam), Pierce Brosnan (Doctor Fate), Aldis Hodge (Hawkman), Noah Centineo (Atom Smasher), Sarah Shahi (Adrianna Tomaz)
• Genre: Action, Fantasy, Superhero
• Runtime: 125 minutes

Plot

Black Adam follows Teth-Adam, an ancient antihero who awakens in the fictional Middle Eastern nation of Kahndaq after 5,000 years of imprisonment. Possessing the power of the gods and a deep desire for vengeance, he is seen as both a protector and a threat. His unique sense of justice brings him into conflict with the Justice Society of America (JSA), a team of heroes tasked with stopping him. Led by Hawkman and featuring characters like Doctor Fate, Atom Smasher, and Cyclone, the JSA challenges Black Adam’s destructive approach to justice, resulting in a clash that threatens the fate of Kahndaq and the world.

Highlights

1. Dwayne Johnson as Black Adam
   • Dwayne Johnson’s performance as Black Adam is intense, charismatic, and showcases his physical prowess. Known for his heroic roles, Johnson takes on a more complex character with a morally ambiguous nature. He balances Black Adam’s antihero status, capturing both the character’s rage and vulnerability, giving a sense of depth to a powerful, flawed hero.
2. Visual Effects and Action Sequences
   • The film offers exhilarating action scenes, from slow-motion battles to large-scale destruction, with impressive visual effects that bring Black Adam’s god-like powers to life. The clash between Black Adam and the Justice Society delivers dynamic fight choreography and breathtaking stunts, keeping the film visually engaging and fast-paced.
3. Justice Society of America (JSA)
   • The JSA, particularly Pierce Brosnan as Doctor Fate and Aldis Hodge as Hawkman, adds richness to the story, providing a balance to Black Adam’s intense approach. Doctor Fate’s mystical powers and Hawkman’s unwavering resolve give the story layers of depth and contrasting ideologies about justice and power.
4. Themes and Tone
   • Black Adam explores themes of power, justice, and revenge, questioning what it means to be a hero. The film’s darker tone aligns with the character’s story, creating a unique narrative within the DC Universe by presenting a protagonist who challenges traditional notions of heroism.
5. Cultural Representation
   • Set in Kahndaq, the film brings Middle Eastern culture into the superhero genre, touching on themes of oppression and liberation, with Kahndaq portrayed as a nation seeking its own hero. This setting brings a fresh perspective to the typical superhero story and highlights the complexities of cultural identity and resistance.

Criticisms

• Story and Pacing: Some critics argue that the plot, though action-packed, could feel predictable, with character arcs that may seem underdeveloped amidst the relentless action.
• Supporting Characters: While the JSA is a fascinating addition, certain characters like Cyclone and Atom Smasher don’t receive as much focus, leaving audiences wishing for deeper exploration of their backstories and powers.

Verdict

Black Adam brings a darker, high-energy take on the DC Universe, with Dwayne Johnson delivering a solid performance as a complex antihero. Though its narrative could benefit from more depth, the film offers satisfying action, impressive visuals, and introduces intriguing new heroes in the Justice Society of America. It’s an enjoyable, intense ride that opens up new possibilities within the DC superhero genre.