AT THE MOVIES

by Isy Jordan

Wonder Woman
Director: Patty Jenkins
Starring: Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, Robin Wright, Connie Nielsen, and more...

Before she was Wonder Woman she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained warrior. When a pilot crashes and tells of conflict in the outside world, she leaves home to fight a war to end all wars, discovering her full powers and true destiny.

Wonder Woman was the big summer movie we've all been waiting for and the first DC franchise film with a female lead. Did it live up to the hype?

For those who are fans of the comics and/or remember the television show from the seventies, the movie was loyal to both in subtle, satisfying ways. Yes, the bracelets were there and could deflect bullets (they are way more awesome, if that's possible, now), along with the golden lariat that can be used to force one to tell the truth. All of the references were there and they established them early so we could get down to the business of this amazing film.

I absolutely loved seeing Diana's backstory, the hints at her true heritage, and how the outside world breeched the walls of the Amazons' beautiful island paradise to begin our tale. From there, having made the acquaintance of Steve Trevor, we're transported to London during the first world war. The questions raised by the less favorable Batman vs. Superman are answered, we meet the lovable team of sidekicks, and begin the film's epic version of the ultimate good meets the ultimate bad. It's an exciting tale and I can't say more without giving anything away. Trust me, you'll love it!

The cast was well selected. I was impressed with Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman in the aforementioned Batman sequel but in this film, the actress blew me away. She was perfect to play our heroine. Chris Pine, who turned in a solid performance as Steve Trevor, was good but it would have been nice to have an actor who isn't a prominent actor in another big franchise (you know, Captain Kirk). Danny Huston turned in his usual solid, villain-who-doesn't-need-a-cause role but surprisingly wasn't the ultimate villain here. I won't ruin that, but the casting choices here were well played.

The effects in the film were excellent and while there's a good deal of war-time violence and fighting scenes, most older kids will be just fine. It might be a little scary for the little ones, however.

At 141 minutes, the film is generous in length and over way too soon. As often happens with DC's films, it's a story that will have you cheering but has enough darkness to keep you from watching it over and over once released on DVD and digital for a feel-good review. Still, if you're a fan of Wonder Woman in any form or DC, this film is not to be missed.

Isy