A Good DC Movie

Rating: 8/10 (7 June 2017)

Not since 2012's Dark Knight Rises has the DC cinematic universe shined like this with Wonder Woman. Gal Gadot stars as the iconic character of Diana, the Amazonian who fought for justice throughout the ages of comics. In this modern re- telling, the Amazonians are immortal women who reside on a secret island, hidden from the world. Born of the Greek Gods, they have Herculean qualities in combat, strength, and character. Eventually, they are accidentally discovered by soldiers fighting in World War I - the War to end all Wars. After a skirmish battle, we find Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) as the lone American who is helping the British cause against the Germans. At the same time, a sinister German known as Ludendorff (Danny Hutson), and his sadistic cohort of chemical warfare, Dr. Maru (Elana Anaya). They have a new chemical gas agent that can really turn the stalemate in World War I. As Diana thrusts herself into this war to stop it, she automatically thinks the Greek God, Ares is behind it. He is the God of War. If he is stopped, it would bring the war to an end. As she learns of the plot, she knows that Ludendorff must be him. Diana, though, is not only naive about the outside world but also impatient with the politics behind waging war. She always wants to do the right thing, and it has to be now. Steve has to temper her, and teach her the ways of how the world works. There are a few faults with the movie. The first being the run time of 2 hours and 40 minutes. That is a long run time that may leave the kids squirming in their seats. Also, Steve Trevor's secretary, Etta Candy (Lucy Davis) is wasted for a few measly minutes for brief comedy as opposed to being a full fleshed out character. Also, as Diane adjusts to British Society, especially the fashion, she is a fish out of water (or should I save that for an Aquaman review?). Some of the comedy misfires. However, making up for these errors are the way Wonder Woman conflicts with British Society. She thinks Etta is a slave since she "has to do what Steve tells her." Diana is shocked that women are looked at with disdain and as many British officials disregard her and consider her an intrusion into "men's work." For the record, women had no vote in the United Kingdom until after the close of WWI. Fortunately, one of my high praises is the message of feminism does not exceed to male bashing as did last summer's "Ghostbusters" reboot. Instead, Diana works as a team member with other men under Steve's command. She earns respect, and gives it to the men around her. There is also a good melding of the use of time element, which is reminiscent of Captain America, The First Avenger. Wonder Woman, though, is pulled off much better. Probably the best thing is the characters and actors. Finally, we care about DC characters. Gal Gadot finally gives us a comic hero we can identify with, something lacking in Man of Steel. She is not larger than life, and brings a sincerity to the role. Chris Pine, who often relies on charm, gives us a character we can identify with as the hero who wants to do the right thing, and must come to terms with a strong female presence in his life. This is also a bright movie, unlike most DC outings. Man of Steel had much introspection and brooding. Batman v. Superman was incredibly dark as the two big ones battled for supremacy. Even Nolan's Dark Knight Trilogy was a bit bleak. Green Lantern was just plain silly. So see Wonder Woman. See it again. And maybe a third time. It is the most re watchable of the DC universe, and a good time at the movies.