DC scores gold with it’s latest superhero installment Shazam. The trailers had me concerned. I thought it would be cheesy and full of bad jokes. I’m glad to say I was wrong. Although this is a family film, it possesses that inherent darkness DC films are known for. Not too surprising since it’s directed by Lights Out creator David F. Sandberg. He does a great job balancing the suspense, drama, and comedy.

Shazam is about a teenage kid who is granted the power of a superhero by an ancient wizard. Zachari Levi is the titular hero Shazam, Asher Angel is Billy Batson, and Jack Dylan Grazer is the ever lovable Freddie Freeman. These kids are amazing and have so much chemistry on screen. I could hear them banter for hours. They had me laughing every time they were together. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows though. There are some pretty scary monsters in here. So small children beware.

The film is very self aware. It makes fun of traditional comic book tropes and touches on subjects like clout chasing on social media. It has everything you can come to expect from the genre; violence, action, stunning special effects, and witty dialogue. It’s a great follow up to Aquaman. Be sure to check out Shazam when it hits theaters April 5th, 2019. It’s a great choice for a family outing or a date. It earns a modest 8 out of 10.