A Step in the Right Direction for DC Comics

Rating: 7/10 (2 June 2017)

This is the first live-action Wonder Woman film, and as a result it has been hotly anticipated by both DC Comics fans as well as the general movie-going public. While not on the same level as the Dark Knight trilogy, this film is a solid and entertaining superhero movie that is much better than "Batman v. Superman" and "Suicide Squad." The film's plot is generally easy to follow and has some very visually ambitious set pieces, from the Greek island where Wonder Woman is from to a well-choreographed and fairly visceral depiction of trench warfare in World War I. Gal Gadot gives a good performance as Wonder Woman. The supporting cast is a bit less commanding, but still generally well-casted. The villains in the film are genuinely evil and are woven into the plot very well, but they are not particularly developed as characters by the script.
It wouldn't be a superhero film without action scenes, and the ones in "Wonder Woman" deliver. While they do not necessarily deviate from the overtly noisy, fairly neo-noir tone of action scenes in other DC Comics films, they are thrilling and fully engaging. Despite a fairly long running time of 141 minutes, the film's pacing is brisk and excellent. That said, there are some flaws to "Wonder Woman." The main criticism I have of the film pertains to the big finale, which unfortunately becomes fairly anti-climatic and begins to lose focus as it unravels. Additionally, the film seems to use a bit too much CGI at some points that some of its visual effects start to look a bit hokey. At the end of the day, "Wonder Woman" is an entertaining comic book film that should satisfy those looking for an action-packed time at the movies. Recommended. 7/10
Note: I saw the film in IMAX 3D. While I would not say it is necessary, this film was worth the extra charge to see in that format. The film's visual effects and action scenes were enhanced by the larger screen and more powerful sound system and bass. The 3D was worthwhile as well, containing some 'in-your-face' effects (flying bullets, lighting, etc.) while also providing depth in other scenes.