by Michael P Coleman
Those who know me know that I’m the world’s biggest Superman fan. Every other hero plays second fiddle.
That may have changed after having seen Gal Gadot’s stunning turn as the Amazonian princess Diana in the wonderful new Wonder Woman. THIS hero is playing second fiddle to no one!
Wonder Woman is the best origin story I’ve seen since 1978 when I watched Superman take flight. And it may be the best I’ve ever seen, drawing inspiration from not just Superman: The Movie but the more recent Captain America: The First Avenger.
Wonder Woman’s pacing is brilliant, giving us just enough Paradise Island and Diana’s early moments in “man’s world” to introduce her to people who don’t know her story. Chris Pine is an exceptional Steve Trevor, gradually falling in love with Diana as we all do.
The CGI and other special effects are top notch. I especially like the depiction of Wonder Woman’s bullet-deflecting bracelets and her lasso, which compels anyone who’s bound by it to tell the truth.
Tie me up, Diana. Oops! This is a family site.
All of the performances are solid, and the movie’s third act will have you on the edge of your seat.
But make no mistake about it: this film is a showcase for Godot, and she is simply brilliant. She perfectly balances the strength and power of the title character with her empathy and compassion.
Godot left us all wanting more last year, when her few onscreen minutes in Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice practically stole the show. And after over two hours of this new Wonder Woman, we’re still wanting more.
THAT’s how you make a superhero movie!
Director Patty Jenkins and Gadot have given me — and the world — a hero to believe in again.
Or to put it another way, they’ve made us believe a woman can fly.
Wonder Woman is in theaters everywhere.
This review was written by freelancer Michael P Coleman. Connect with him at michaelpcoleman.com or on Twitter: @ColemanMichaelP.
