The early consensus is that “Shazam! Fury of the Gods” is “bigger” and “bolder,” but still holds tight to the heart and humor of the first film. With the origin story out of the way, the movie delves right into the action, which is balanced alongside character development for the beloved foster family. According to Geeks of Color owner Dorian Park, the sequel is even better than the original. “[‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’] delivers on every level. The action is spectacular, the humor is on point, and the surprises will leave you wanting more.”
#ShazamFuryoftheGods delivers on every level. The action is spectacular, the humor is on point, and the surprises will leave you wanting more. As a fan of the first film, I’m happy to report that this sequel is just as good, if not better. pic.twitter.com/RhYNBN1Yap
— Dorian Parks (@DorianParksnRec) March 7, 2023
That excitement is echoed across the board: Fandango’s Erik Davis praised the humor and the decision to center chosen family, while Variety critic Courtney Howard dubbed the film a “super-powered sequel” with “a super solid, super fun & super smart blend of hilarity, heart & heroics.”
The film also includes many standout performances — which is no big surprise given it’s packed with immense talent. Discussing Film’s Ben Rolph points to Helen Mirren, as does Shahbaz “The Movie Podcast” host, who writes that Mirren, Lucy Liu and Rachel Zegler are “a force to be reckoned with & a joy to watch.”
SHAZAM FURY OF THE GODS is endearing, hilarious, entertaining and epic. Helen Mirren stands out as a great addition to Shazam’s roster. Sandberg’s film is just as engaging as the first, but here the stakes are upped. Huge twists galore, DC fans are going to love Shazam 2 #Shazam pic.twitter.com/nrNedK2xIu
— Ben Rolph / TheDCTVshow (@TheDCTVshow) March 7, 2023
#ShazamFuryOfTheGods is the most FUN I’ve had at the movies! Filled with comedic charm & heart, there’s a lot to love about this family. @LucyLiu, Helen Mirren & @rachelzegler are a force to be reckoned with & a joy to watch. @PonySmasher HITS it outta the park! pic.twitter.com/KSqe8y89nk
— Shahbaz • The Movie Podcast (@shayhbaz) March 7, 2023
ComicBook.com’s Brandon Davis hints that the sequel leans into the realm of horror, much like the first film. He notes that David F. Sandberg “sprinkles some horror elements while maintaining the childish joy & charm of the Shazamily.”
I saw #Shazam! Fury of the Gods!
It’s a really good sequel. The theme of found family delivers great emotional beats. Sandberg sprinkles some horror elements while maintaining the childish joy & charm of the Shazamily.
Nothing brand new but highly entertaining! Really enjoyed. pic.twitter.com/7BFToNMRDj
— The Brandalorian (@BrandonDavisBD) March 7, 2023
Black Girl Nerds founder Jamie Broadnax adds, “Shazam continues to lean into his silliness and immaturity in this sequel which tells us this franchise will remain to keep these films funny, light and slapstick-ish. “
Shazam continues to lean into his silliness and immaturity in this sequel which tells us this franchise will remain to keep these films funny, light and slapstick-ish. The sequel comes with more action, compelling villains and a complicated antihero. #ShazamFuryOfTheGods #Shazam2 pic.twitter.com/Po5J64rd91
— Jamie Broadnax 🔜 Disney World (@JamieBroadnax) March 7, 2023
