Wonder Woman

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The Wonder Woman movie received a positive review rating of 97% from Rotten Tomatoes.

This is probably good news for DC fans in general and Wonder Woman in particular. Acclaimed filmmakers, critics have been giving tribute to Wonder Woman, arguably the best superhero movie of the DC universe since The Dark Knight debuted in 2008.

According to the Rotten Tomatoes film review page, Wonder Woman received 97% positive reviews as of Tuesday. This number exceeds other DC films: Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (28%); Suicide Squad (25%); Man of Steel (55%);

Not only that, Wonder Woman defeated Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight” (94%) as well as every other movie in the Marvel universe.

So far, there have been about 66 expert reviews from Wonder Woman, of which 64/66 are positive, with only two negative reviews. Far from the recent DC movie releases.

Obviously, the 97% does not mean that critics give Wonder Woman 97 on a 100 scale, or this is not the perfect movie – instead, it shows most hardest critics gave the super heroine positive evaluation.

The average score for Wonder Woman on Rotten Tomatoes is 7.7 / 10, while Metacritic is 79/100.

These numbers really mean to movie fans in general, DC in particular. In fact, since the Wonder Woman has been under a lot of pressure from the beginning, in the past, many “boring” films like Catwoman and Elektra have created a bad precedent for female super hero dramas.

Fans can be confident that Wonder Woman has made an important turning point, as a springboard for other superhero women to be re-released on the big screen.

In addition, Wonder Woman is giving Warner Bros. more opportunities, targeting more audiences, which means that the superhero movies they create will be more diversified. Hopefully, Warner Bros. will do at least a sequel to Wonder Woman.

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Wonder Woman (Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD UltraViolet Combo Pack) (BD): Buy it now

Wonder Woman: Buy it now

Introduction

“Wonder Woman,” directed by Patty Jenkins and released in 2017, is a landmark film in the superhero genre, notable for being one of the few major superhero films centered around a female protagonist. Starring Gal Gadot in the titular role, the film explores the origin story of Diana, Princess of the Amazons, and her transformation into Wonder Woman. The movie blends action, mythology, and history to create a compelling narrative that resonated with audiences and critics alike. This review will delve into various aspects of the film, including its storyline, characters, performances, direction, cinematography, themes, and cultural impact.

Storyline and Plot

Setting and Premise

“Wonder Woman” is set during World War I, a period chosen to highlight the global conflict and the introduction of modern warfare. The film opens with Diana living on the idyllic island of Themyscira, a hidden paradise inhabited by the Amazons, a race of warrior women created by Zeus to protect humanity. The arrival of American pilot Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) disrupts this peaceful existence and sets the stage for Diana’s journey into the outside world.

Plot Development

The film follows a classic hero’s journey structure, beginning with Diana’s sheltered life on Themyscira. Trained as a warrior by her aunt Antiope (Robin Wright) and guided by her mother Queen Hippolyta (Connie Nielsen), Diana is eager to learn about her powers and her purpose. Her encounter with Steve Trevor introduces her to the concept of war and the suffering it causes.

Compelled by a sense of duty and her belief in the Amazonian mission to protect humanity, Diana leaves Themyscira with Steve to confront Ares, the god of war, whom she believes is behind the conflict. The narrative takes them to the front lines of World War I, where Diana’s powers and her compassion for humanity are put to the test.

Climax and Resolution

The film builds to a climactic battle between Diana and Ares (David Thewlis), who reveals himself as a manipulative force behind the scenes. Diana’s realization that humanity’s flaws are not solely due to external evil but are part of human nature adds depth to the storyline. The resolution sees Diana embracing her role as Wonder Woman, choosing to believe in the potential for good in humanity despite its inherent flaws.

Characters and Performances

Gal Gadot as Diana/Wonder Woman

Gal Gadot’s portrayal of Diana is the heart of the film. Gadot brings a perfect blend of strength, grace, and innocence to the character, making her both relatable and inspiring. Her performance captures Diana’s evolution from a naive and idealistic warrior to a seasoned hero who understands the complexities of human nature. Gadot’s physical presence and combat skills lend authenticity to the action sequences, while her emotional depth ensures that Diana’s internal struggles resonate with the audience.

Chris Pine as Steve Trevor

Chris Pine’s Steve Trevor serves as both a love interest and a narrative foil to Diana. Pine delivers a charismatic and nuanced performance, providing a grounded and human counterpoint to Diana’s mythic qualities. Steve’s bravery, humor, and ultimate sacrifice play a crucial role in Diana’s character development. The chemistry between Gadot and Pine is palpable, adding an emotional layer to the story that enhances its impact.

Supporting Cast

The supporting cast includes standout performances from Robin Wright as Antiope, Connie Nielsen as Hippolyta, and David Thewlis as Sir Patrick Morgan/Ares. Wright’s Antiope is a fierce and inspiring mentor to Diana, while Nielsen’s Hippolyta provides a nurturing yet cautious influence. Thewlis’ portrayal of Ares is initially understated but becomes menacing in the film’s final act.

The film also features a diverse ensemble of characters who assist Diana and Steve on their mission, including Saïd Taghmaoui as Sameer, Ewen Bremner as Charlie, and Eugene Brave Rock as Chief. Each character adds depth and variety to the narrative, highlighting different aspects of humanity and the effects of war.

Direction and Cinematography

Patty Jenkins’ Direction

Patty Jenkins’ direction is a major strength of “Wonder Woman.” Jenkins expertly balances the film’s action, drama, and humor, creating a cohesive and engaging narrative. Her focus on character development ensures that the film’s emotional beats resonate, while her handling of the action sequences is dynamic and visually impressive. Jenkins’ direction emphasizes the film’s themes of empowerment and compassion, making “Wonder Woman” more than just a standard superhero film.

Visual Style and Cinematography

The cinematography by Matthew Jensen is another highlight of the film. The visuals are striking, from the lush and vibrant landscapes of Themyscira to the grim and gritty battlefields of World War I. The film’s color palette shifts to reflect the changing settings and tones, enhancing the storytelling. The action sequences are choreographed and shot with clarity and energy, particularly the iconic No Man’s Land scene, which has become one of the most memorable moments in modern superhero cinema.

Themes and Symbolism

Empowerment and Heroism

At its core, “Wonder Woman” is a story of empowerment and heroism. Diana’s journey is one of self-discovery and embracing her destiny as a protector of humanity. The film explores what it means to be a hero, emphasizing that true heroism involves compassion, selflessness, and the willingness to stand up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

The Complexity of Humanity

The film also delves into the complexities of human nature. Through Diana’s interactions with Steve and her experiences in the outside world, she learns that humanity is capable of both great good and profound evil. This realization challenges her initial black-and-white worldview and forces her to grapple with the ambiguity and moral gray areas of human existence.

Love and Sacrifice

Love and sacrifice are central themes in “Wonder Woman.” Diana’s love for humanity drives her actions, while Steve’s ultimate sacrifice underscores the cost of heroism. The film suggests that love, in its various forms, is a powerful force for change and a fundamental aspect of what it means to be human.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Breaking Barriers

“Wonder Woman” broke several barriers in the film industry. It was one of the first major superhero films directed by a woman and centered around a female superhero, challenging the male-dominated landscape of the genre. The film’s success demonstrated that audiences were eager for more diverse and inclusive storytelling, paving the way for future films with female leads and directors.

Critical and Commercial Success

The film was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $800 million worldwide and receiving widespread acclaim from critics and audiences. It was praised for its performances, particularly Gal Gadot’s portrayal of Diana, as well as its direction, action sequences, and themes. “Wonder Woman” proved that superhero films could be both entertaining and meaningful, resonating with a broad audience.

Influence on the Genre

“Wonder Woman” has had a lasting influence on the superhero genre. It inspired a wave of films and television shows featuring strong female protagonists, including “Captain Marvel,” “Birds of Prey,” and “The Eternals.” The film also set a new standard for representation and inclusivity in Hollywood, encouraging studios to invest in more diverse storytelling.

Music and Soundtrack

The film’s score, composed by Rupert Gregson-Williams, plays a significant role in enhancing the emotional and dramatic impact of the story. The music blends traditional orchestral elements with modern touches, creating a soundscape that complements the film’s epic and mythic qualities. The “Wonder Woman Theme,” originally introduced in “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice,” is a standout piece, with its driving rhythm and electrifying melody becoming synonymous with the character.

Criticisms and Controversies

Pacing and Plot Points

While “Wonder Woman” received widespread acclaim, it is not without its criticisms. Some reviewers pointed out issues with pacing, particularly in the film’s third act, where the climactic battle with Ares felt somewhat rushed and overly reliant on CGI effects. Additionally, some plot points, such as the reveal of Ares’ true identity, were seen as predictable or underdeveloped.

Historical Accuracy

Another point of contention was the film’s historical accuracy, particularly its portrayal of World War I. While “Wonder Woman” is a work of fiction and not a historical drama, some critics felt that the depiction of the war and its causes was overly simplified. However, this is a common challenge for films that blend historical events with fantastical elements.

Conclusion

“Wonder Woman” is a landmark film that successfully combines action, mythology, and historical drama to create a compelling and inspiring narrative. Gal Gadot’s portrayal of Diana is both powerful and nuanced, supported by strong performances from the rest of the cast. Patty Jenkins’ direction, combined with impressive cinematography and a stirring score, ensures that the film is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

The film’s themes of empowerment, heroism, and the complexity of humanity add depth to the story, making it more than just a typical superhero movie. “Wonder Woman” has had a significant cultural impact, breaking barriers in the film industry and influencing the genre in profound ways.

Despite some criticisms regarding pacing and historical accuracy, “Wonder Woman” remains a standout entry in the superhero genre and a testament to the power of inclusive and diverse storytelling. Its success has paved the way for future films centered around strong female protagonists, and its legacy continues to inspire audiences worldwide.