"Wonder Woman" Review
Wonder Woman finally makes her live action feature length debut. It took us 76 years but here it is! Does Diana Prince have what it takes to bring on the much needed depth that has sorely been lacking in DC’s overstuffed, and somewhat incoherent cinematic universe? In short, yes.
Wonder Woman is directed by Patty Jenkins (Monster) and it tells the origin story of everyone’s favourite fictional feminist icon played by Gal Gadot. It's a classic hero's journey set in the First World War and checks off every typical beat of a big budget action movie. Unfortunately, this is where most of the movie’s problems come from. Understandably, Jenkins is new to the Hollywood blockbuster game, and the fight scenes, although well choreographed, is a mixed bag, at times feel gorgeous to watch unfold and other times lack kineticism and impact due to the exhausting use of slow motion that usually brings the action to a complete stop when combined with the movie's questionable CG work. All of these elements: the awkward action direction, editing and sloppy CG, morphs into a full on assault during its third act. On top of that, we have some of the most one-dimensional villains I think I've ever had the pleasure to forget. Almost nothing in the last third of the movie feels quite as convincing as it wants to be but is saved by Chris Pine’s above average and super likeable portrayal of Steve Trevor and Gadot’s fearless but naïve version of Wonder Woman.
All that being said, the movie is able to overcome its abysmal villains and technical hurdles. There’s a clearer sense of character than most superhero movies. It feels emotionally ripe and intimate (for those who’ve seen Monster will know that Jenkins excels in establishing empathy for that film’s main characters. This knack of a character driven plot remains intact in her big budget debut). This is a superhero movie at its purest. It’s a movie about love and fighting for those who can't fight for themselves. Screenwriter Allan Heinberg, having written some Wonder Woman comics himself, is no stranger to the character. I think he has a full grasp of her and the supporting characters who fight alongside her. It’s just too bad that such great protagonists have been put in such a standard plot. Though, a silver lining to a simple plot means that there’s more room for characters to interact and develop. Ignoring the cheesy-looking CG and awkwardly edited fights, the first two acts were a joy to sit through. Seeing a shot of Wonder Woman defending herself against gunfire with her shield brings an indescribable warmth to my heart. Even with its faults, the movie does its damnest to be good and true to its message and it succeeds.
Four movies in, Wonder Woman is the first character in the DCEU who truly feels like a superhero. Having the story take place mostly outside the main plot of the cinematic universe makes this an easy watch. The simple premise and plot beats makes it easy for audiences to relate to and root for. Even though it has its problems, we can all breathe a collective sigh of relief knowing that Wonder Woman is a step the right direction for DC movies. Although it's not a great movie, it succeeds in capturing everything that a character like Wonder Woman represents and I can't help but recommend it. Though if you want a far more competent and mature Wonder Woman movie I would point you in the direction of its 2009 animated counterpart.