A WONDERful New Step for the DCEU

Rating: 7/10 (3 June 2017)

Following the average films which came before, the eyes and hopes for the DCEU was on the shoulders of WW. WW is the step in the right direction for the universe and gives it the kick it needs to hopefully make this universe stronger. While this film was a vast improvement over the other outings in the DCEU it still suffers from issues that plague most modern superhero movies.
First the strong points. The first act set on Themyscira is a department from other films in the DCEU in that it actually has colour which makes the world seem like a better place and helps to show the strength of the amazons. This setting helps to see that WW is a good character with hope, something which the DCEU version of superman lacks. The first act also gives us the start of the relationship between WW and ST (Chris Pine), while I have issues with the Love of the relationship I could not help but notice the incredible chemistry between the two and both put in some of their best acting ever. This acting continued all through the film and only got stronger. Unlike the previous films in the universe it actually has moments of light and comic relief. The setting of WW1 is strong as it is not a time period which is used in major films to often. In tone with the setting the costumes help in selling the period with all players looking like soldiers. WW costume has went through slight changes from her appearance on BvS in that its more colourful, this is a strong change as it helps to sell the hope that she has for the world and mankind The action in the movie is incredible and the stunt work is done extremely well. The film is well paced with each part moving at a reasonable rate. This is down to the lack of any sharp editing of the movie like what happened to BvS and SS. Last point, the film is allowed to breath and only contains small nods to a wider universe, it acts as its own movie.
Now for the negatives. While the action in the movie is strong, it suffers from an overuse of slow-mo as well as moving to fast which makes some action beats seem rushed. The film relies to heavily on cgi and it is most clear in the final act of the film. Their are moments in the film when it is clear that the actors are working with a green screen. The film suffers from some of the same problems that plague both DC and Marvel movies such as the cgi heavy final act as well as the weak villain characters and most supporting characters. The villains of the film are not used enough in the film which hampers any character development for them. The same goes for the supporting cast of the film, some are used for comic relief and others are barely used at all. Their are some great actors on the movie who are not giving enough screen time which is a shame. Some of the best jokes and action beats have been ruined in the trailers and while it does not hamper the film too much, it would have been nice to see them fresh in the film. The relationship between the two leads at times felt too forced. There were certain moments that felt to similar to events that happened in the first captain America film and it ruined the story a bit.
So while the film did have its issues, it was still a good movie and is the best in the DCEU. It hopefully shows that the studio now sees what needs to be done and they are willing to fix it.