Review of Black Adam (2022)

The DC Extended Universe (DCEU) made a bold move with Black Adam (2022), bringing one of its most intriguing antiheroes to the forefront. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson in the titular role, the film delivers a high-octane mix of action, mythological lore, and moral complexity. While it doesn’t reinvent the superhero genre, Black Adam offers enough spectacle and charisma to stand out in an increasingly crowded cinematic landscape.

Plot Overview

The story of Black Adam centers on Teth-Adam, a former slave in the ancient kingdom of Kahndaq, who is endowed with the powers of the gods. After being imprisoned for thousands of years due to his destructive use of those powers, he is unleashed in the modern day, where his unrelenting sense of justice clashes with contemporary heroes and villains.

The plot intertwines ancient mythology with modern geopolitics as Kahndaq remains a battleground for exploitation and resistance. Adam’s return sparks a debate: Is he the savior his people need, or is he too dangerous to remain free? The arrival of the Justice Society—featuring Hawkman (Aldis Hodge), Doctor Fate (Pierce Brosnan), Cyclone (Quintessa Swindell), and Atom Smasher (Noah Centineo)—adds complexity to the narrative, as their mission to contain Adam pits them against his quest for vengeance and freedom.

Dwayne Johnson’s Star Power

Dwayne Johnson’s portrayal of Black Adam is the film’s undeniable highlight. Known for his larger-than-life charisma, Johnson brings a different kind of energy to the role, balancing Adam’s stoic intensity with flashes of vulnerability and dry humor. His physicality is perfectly suited for the character, and he convincingly embodies a figure who is both a weapon of mass destruction and a deeply flawed man.

Johnson’s commitment to the role, having championed the character for over a decade, is evident in every frame. While some aspects of Adam’s character development feel underexplored, Johnson’s commanding presence keeps the audience invested in his journey.

Justice Society: A Welcome Addition

The introduction of the Justice Society adds a refreshing dynamic to the DCEU. Aldis Hodge’s Hawkman serves as a principled foil to Black Adam, delivering a strong performance that anchors the group’s moral compass. Pierce Brosnan’s Doctor Fate is another standout, bringing gravitas and mysticism to the film. Brosnan’s portrayal of Kent Nelson balances wisdom and weariness, making him one of the most compelling characters in the story.

Cyclone and Atom Smasher provide lighter moments, with their youthful enthusiasm contrasting the more serious tone of their counterparts. While their character arcs are not deeply developed, Quintessa Swindell and Noah Centineo bring charm and likability to their roles.

Action and Visuals

As expected from a film starring Dwayne Johnson, Black Adam excels in the action department. The fight sequences are intense and visually stunning, showcasing the destructive potential of Adam’s powers. From electrifying battles with mercenaries to high-stakes confrontations with the Justice Society, the action is relentless and engaging.

The visual effects are a mixed bag. While the larger set pieces and magical elements, such as Doctor Fate’s illusions and Cyclone’s wind powers, are impressive, some CGI-heavy moments feel less polished. Despite this, the film’s overall aesthetic—from the ancient ruins of Kahndaq to its modern-day cityscapes—is immersive and detailed.

Themes and Moral Complexity

Black Adam explores themes of justice, revenge, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. Teth-Adam’s philosophy of using power to exact retribution challenges the more traditional ideals of the Justice Society, sparking a conversation about the cost of peace and the ethics of power.

The film’s portrayal of Kahndaq as a colonized and oppressed nation adds a layer of political commentary. Adam’s rise as a symbol of resistance resonates with the people of Kahndaq, complicating the audience’s perception of his actions. This moral ambiguity is one of the film’s strengths, though it could have been explored in greater depth.

Pacing and Storytelling

While Black Adam delivers on spectacle, its storytelling occasionally falters. The pacing is uneven, with a first act that feels rushed as it attempts to establish Adam’s backstory and the Justice Society simultaneously. The script’s reliance on exposition-heavy dialogue sometimes undermines the emotional impact of key moments.

Additionally, the film introduces several intriguing subplots and characters but doesn’t fully develop them. For instance, the dynamic between Black Adam and Adrianna Tomaz (Sarah Shahi), a freedom fighter and key ally, has potential but is not deeply explored.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

1. Dwayne Johnson’s magnetic performance as Black Adam.
2. The introduction of the Justice Society, particularly Pierce Brosnan’s Doctor Fate and Aldis Hodge’s Hawkman.
3. Intense and visually dynamic action sequences.
4. Thought-provoking themes of power, justice, and resistance.

Weaknesses:

1. Uneven pacing and underdeveloped subplots.
2. Occasional overuse of CGI.
3. Limited character development for supporting cast members.

Final Thoughts

Black Adam is a solid entry in the DCEU that delivers on action and star power. While it doesn’t quite reach the narrative heights of its potential, it succeeds in introducing a compelling antihero and expanding the universe with the Justice Society. Dwayne Johnson’s portrayal of Black Adam is a triumph, and the film’s exploration of moral ambiguity sets it apart from more conventional superhero stories.

For fans of the DCEU and action-packed blockbusters, Black Adam is an entertaining ride that paves the way for exciting future developments in the franchise. Despite its flaws, it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of antiheroes and the power of a well-cast lead to carry a film.