Shazam, once known as DC’s Captain Marvel, has become an intriguing addition to the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). With his debut on the big screen in 2019, Shazam opened a new sub-franchise within the DCEU, captivating audiences with his unique blend of humor and heroism. This article dives into the Shazam movies released so far, including the notable spin-off featuring his nemesis, Black Adam.
Shazam! (2019): The Origin Story
The journey of Shazam in the DCEU began with ‘Shazam!’ in 2019. Directed by David F. Sandberg and starring Zachary Levi, this film introduced audiences to Billy Batson, a 14-year-old foster kid who transforms into the adult superhero Shazam. The story unfolds as Billy learns to harness his new powers while facing the villainous Dr. Sivana.
Black Adam (2022): The Anti-Hero’s Rise
‘Black Adam,’ released in 2022, features Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as Teth-Adam/Black Adam. Set 5,000 years after Teth-Adam gains the powers of Shazam, the film follows his emergence in the modern world and his confrontation with the Justice Society of America. This spin-off explores a darker and more complex character in the Shazam mythos.
Shazam! Fury of the Gods (2023): A New Challenge
In ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods,’ set a few years after the original, the Shazam family faces a formidable threat from the daughters of Atlas. These powerful demigods seek to use the wizard Shazam’s staff to strip away Billy and his family’s powers, endangering the world. Billy must discover the true hero within to overcome this new menace.
The Viewing Order of Shazam Movies
To fully grasp the Shazam storyline, it’s recommended to watch the movies in their release order:
- ‘Shazam!’ (2019)
- ‘Black Adam’ (2022)
- ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’ (2023)
While ‘Black Adam’ can be viewed independently, watching it between the two Shazam movies can enhance the understanding of the shared universe.
Streaming the Shazam Series
The Shazam movies and ‘Black Adam’ are available on Max (formerly HBO Max). This platform has become the go-to destination for DC live-action movies, offering fans easy access to the entire Shazam series.
The Future of Shazam in the DC Extended Universe
The prospects of a third Shazam movie seem uncertain following the lukewarm reception of ‘Shazam: Fury of the Gods’ and its box office performance. With the upcoming soft-reboot of the DCEU, it’s unclear if Shazam will have a place in the new DC Universe (DCU) envisioned by Gunn and Safran. Similarly, the future of Black Adam and his integration into the DCU remains in doubt, particularly after the underperformance of his standalone film.
Shazam’s Impact on the DCEU
Shazam’s foray into the DCEU has offered a refreshing take on superhero storytelling, blending humor with heroism. While the character’s future in the evolving DC Universe may be uncertain, the existing Shazam movies have left an indelible mark, showcasing the potential for lesser-known characters to shine on the big screen. As the DCEU continues to evolve, the legacy of Shazam and Black Adam will remain a significant part of its history.
