As a gloriously geeky student of Media, it wasn't a secret that I would go see the new Wonder Woman movie on its opening day. Not just because this was another superhero movie, but also because this superhero movie was directed by a female director! What better inspiration could I hope for??
From believable yet incredible stunts to well-choreographed fight scenes all without an overwhelming romantic sub-story, DC finally got it right for these new-age adaptations. Granted that while the Dark Knight Trilogy is a DC series and AMAZING, it doesn't seamlessly fit into this Justice League extended universe.
First off, casting was near perfect. Gal Gadot is beautiful and complements the Greek goddess imagery with chiseled features and a natural athleticism befitting a warrior princess. Leading man Chris Pine as Steve Trevor was just the right mix of young, reckless war hero and prudent protector. With this "big-brother" disposition it was easy to like Steve as he managed the small, diverse task force he assembled. This team left no one out; from Scotsman sniper Charlie (Ewen Bremner) with silver-tongued Sameer (Saïd Tahmaoui) and profiteering smuggler Chief (Eugene Brave Rock) the diversity was there. Yes, stereotypes played a part in this movie, but it was all done in good taste and would more often have the effect of combating the negativity around stereotypes instead of perpetuating them.
As for script, you won't find any of that cheesy junk found in other blockbusters ("Rebellions are built on hope!") but rather natural, emotionally intelligent dialogue in balance with thought-provoking commentary. I loved the power and passion from Diana (Wonder Woman), and her obviously innocent curiosity as she ventured out into an unknown world.
Through her exploration, we find ourselves questioning our own humanity, what is justice, and what brings us together as humankind instead of what divides us into races, classes, or even genders. I appreciated the "male genitalia" jabs and the commentary on marriage the most; not only because they were not overtly raunchy, but because with analysis, they question the cultures and stigmas that surround such topics.
Costuming and make-up was amazing as ever. Not only were the period outfits impeccable, the updated "super-suit" was a nice, modern piece that did not overly sexualize or draw attention away from Galdot's existing beauty or her acting. It was a renewed version of her armor that not only was a homage to her earliest comics, but also to her era of origin (think of Spartan armor). This is also evident in Ares' armor at the end of the film.
The choices of lighting, framing, music, pacing and sequencing were exquisite, and I can only hope that DC continues making films more like this one instead of over-packing like they did in Batman Vs Superman. I am SO happy with the final product and proud to have a FEMALE DIRECTOR at the head of this masterpiece. Way to go Patty Jenkins!
