Grace, Intelligence, and Strength... What's Not to Love?

Rating: 10/10 (2 June 2017)

I'm in love with Gal Gadot because she's gorgeous, has an amazing presence, captivating us with her ability to look like a bigger than life figure, retaining enough warmth and heart to get you misty eyed. After so many heroes with some sort of trauma in their backgrounds, and an overload of sensory stimulation that passes as entertaining for many in the audience, I'm glad the pyrotechnics are toned down, except for a climax that I supposed had to be there. We get some characterization that has rarely been seen, with a few exceptions, and the writer keeps things moving so well that it's hard to believe we sat through 141 minutes.
The story focuses on Diana, Wonder Woman, a special creation of Zeus who is not aware of her role in the universe, but who knows she must somehow help the human race survive and get better. There's, of course, a villain that is as powerful as she is, and this one is clear about what he is supposed to do, and if you pay enough attention, I'm sure you can figure what figure he's standing for. It's an interesting inclusion in this type of movies, but then again, we're giving a nice first act that takes us back to some exciting mythological background, with a film that treats the Amazons, and women in general as full human beings, valuing both their physical traits, their spiritual core, and their intelligence. Diana might be naive about a lot of what goes in the world outside her area, but she's strong, adaptable, and willing to learn without sacrificing her faith on what she believes in.
With the support of Chris Pine, she manages to learn about what humanity has done, is doing, and is capable of doing. The question is what she is willing to accomplish or whether her role needs to be redefined. It's a bit heavy at times, but it's kept simple enough to let us enjoy the story and the movie, and having such a capable actress makes the experience remarkable.
There were times that I was laughing at the innocence and joy Gadot gives her character when she enjoys the simple experiences of life. She has a wonderful laugh and light that shines brightly when she sees something that is precious for many. She is also great about portraying the dark times, the disappointing and the pain of losing something that she treasures.
Let's not forget the very cool emphasis on her powers, her tools, and the way the director (who happens to be lady). She's graceful while she fights, but she's no weakling. There's are shots that remind us she's of royal origins, connection to Gods, and she's still somehow a very powerful human being. She can get hurt, but she's also really good making sure she protects herself and battles her enemies.
There are "quiet" moments, and Gadot is superb in those, too. Her entrance in the gala is a stunner. Jaws will drop at the way she carries herself. We see also how beautiful and expressive her close ups are when she realizes there's something going on with army friend. She's a hero, a leader, a soldier, a lover, a friend, and a goddess both from her mythological origins to her moment in the silver screen.