“Black Adam,” a 2022 American superhero film, marks a pivotal addition to the DC Extended Universe. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and featuring Dwayne Johnson as the eponymous character, this movie spins off from “Shazam!” (2019). Set in the nation of Kahndaq, it revolves around Black Adam, an ancient superhuman released from magical imprisonment, and his confrontation with the local crime syndicate, Intergang. The film boasts a cast including Aldis Hodge, Noah Centineo, Sarah Shahi, and Pierce Brosnan in significant roles.
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Table of Contents
Plot
The story begins in 2600 BC in Kahndaq, where the tyrannical king Ahk-Ton uses Eternium to forge the Crown of Sabbac. A young slave boy, transformed into a champion by the Council of Wizards, ends Ahk-Ton’s reign. Fast forward to the present day, where the Intergang oppresses Kahndaq, leading archaeologist Adrianna Tomaz to discover the Crown of Sabbac. Her actions inadvertently awaken Teth-Adam, setting off a chain of events that involve the Justice Society and reveal hidden truths.
Cast
“Black Adam” showcases a diverse cast, each bringing their unique essence to the expansive DC Extended Universe. Let’s delve into an analysis of the main cast and their roles:
- Dwayne Johnson as Teth-Adam / Black Adam: Johnson brings a commanding presence to the role of Black Adam, a former slave from Kahndaq empowered by Egyptian gods. His portrayal captures the character’s complexity, navigating between antihero and potential villain, reflecting a deep moral ambiguity.
- Aldis Hodge as Carter Hall / Hawkman: Hodge plays Hawkman, the leader of the Justice Society. His character wields Nth metal technology and weapons, embodying a sense of authority and experience vital to the team’s dynamic.
- Noah Centineo as Albert “Al” Rothstein / Atom Smasher: Centineo’s Atom Smasher is a younger member of the Justice Society, possessing the ability to alter his size and strength. This role adds a youthful energy and perspective to the group.
- Sarah Shahi as Adrianna Tomaz: Shahi’s character is a university professor and a resistance fighter in modern-day Kahndaq. She serves as a crucial ally to Black Adam and the Justice Society, grounding the story in a contemporary struggle for freedom.
- Marwan Kenzari as Ishmael Gregor / Sabbac: Kenzari portrays both Ishmael Gregor, the descendant of King Ahk-Ton and leader of Intergang in Kahndaq, and Sabbac, a being with demonic powers. His performance brings a multifaceted villain to the narrative.
- Quintessa Swindell as Maxine Hunkel / Cyclone: Swindell’s Cyclone, a young member of the Justice Society, can control and manipulate wind. The character adds a unique supernatural element to the team, with a backstory tied to a legacy of heroism.
- Pierce Brosnan as Kent Nelson / Doctor Fate: Brosnan brings gravitas to the role of Doctor Fate, a senior member of the Justice Society capable of various sorceries. His portrayal of Nelson, laden with wisdom and the weight of destiny, adds a mystical dimension to the film.
- Bodhi Sabongui as Amon Tomaz: Portrayed by Sabongui, Amon is Adrianna’s teenage son who forms a bond with Adam. His character represents the innocence and hope of the younger generation in Kahndaq.
Additional notable cast members include Mohammed Amer as Karim, Adrianna’s brother; James Cusati-Moyer as Samir, a colleague of Adrianna; and Jalon Christian as Hurut, Adam’s son, who becomes the original Champion of Kahndaq. Djimon Hounsou reprises his role as the wizard Shazam, and Jennifer Holland returns as Emilia Harcourt. The film also features uncredited appearances by Viola Davis as Amanda Waller and Henry Cavill as Superman.
Each actor in “Black Adam” contributes significantly to the film’s exploration of power, responsibility, and heroism, bringing depth and diversity to the DC Extended Universe.
Production
Initially attached to “Shazam!,” Johnson’s role as Black Adam evolved into a standalone film. The development saw Adam Sztykiel and the team of Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani take up the scriptwriting duties. The film’s production, initially set for a 2021 release, faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with principal photography occurring between April and August 2021.
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Release
“Black Adam” premiered in Mexico City in October 2022 and saw its U.S. theatrical release later that month. Despite the anticipation and a star-studded cast, the film garnered mixed reviews and was labeled a box-office bomb for its failure to break even, grossing $393 million worldwide.
Reception
Critics gave mixed reviews, praising the film’s visuals and performances, particularly Johnson’s portrayal of Black Adam, but criticizing its narrative and pacing. The film’s ambitious scope and exploration of darker themes in the superhero genre were noted, though it faced challenges in delivering a cohesive and compelling story.
Recap
“Black Adam” represents a bold attempt to expand the DC Extended Universe by introducing a morally complex antihero. While it struggled to find its footing at the box office, the film’s impact on the future narrative arc of the DCEU and its exploration of grey areas in superhero morality makes it a notable entry. Johnson’s portrayal of Black Adam and the introduction of the Justice Society set the stage for intriguing developments in DC’s cinematic saga.
