Black Adam (Full Movie 2022)
Black Adam (2022): A Thunderous but Uneven DC Antihero Epic
Black Adam (2022), directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, introduces Dwayne Johnson as DC’s antihero Teth-Adam in a high-octane, action-packed spectacle. Released on October 21, 2022, the film aims to shake up the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) with a morally complex protagonist and a new superhero team, the Justice Society of America (JSA). While it delivers jaw-dropping visuals and Johnson’s commanding presence, Black Adam struggles with a generic plot and muddled execution, leaving it as a thrilling but flawed entry in the superhero genre. Here’s a closer look at its strengths and shortcomings.
Plot Summary
Set in the modern-day fictional nation of Kahndaq, Black Adam follows Teth-Adam, an ancient champion awakened after 5,000 years of imprisonment. Granted godlike powers by the wizard Shazam, Adam is no traditional hero, unleashing his brutal sense of justice on oppressors. When a criminal syndicate seeks an ancient artifact, the Crown of Sabbac, Adam’s rampage draws the attention of the JSA—Hawkman (Aldis Hodge), Doctor Fate (Pierce Brosnan), Atom Smasher (Noah Centineo), and Cyclone (Quintessa Swindell)—who aim to rein him in. As Adam clashes with the JSA and a demonic threat emerges, he grapples with his past and his role as Kahndaq’s protector.
Strengths of the Film
Dwayne Johnson’s Larger-Than-Life Performance
Dwayne Johnson embodies Black Adam with undeniable charisma, bringing gravitas to the antihero’s rage and pain. His imposing physicality and intense delivery make Adam a compelling force, whether he’s obliterating foes or wrestling with his tragic backstory. Johnson’s passion for the role, which he championed for over a decade, shines through, making Adam a standout in the DCEU.
Stunning Action and Visuals
Black Adam excels in its action sequences, with Collet-Serra leveraging a $190–260 million budget to craft electrifying set pieces. From Adam’s lightning-charged battles to slow-motion hero shots, the film’s CGI and choreography deliver visceral thrills. The depiction of Kahndaq, blending ancient ruins with a war-torn modern city, creates a vivid backdrop, while the JSA’s distinct powers—Hawkman’s wings, Doctor Fate’s sorcery—add visual flair.
Justice Society’s Potential
The JSA, though underutilized, brings fresh energy to the DCEU. Pierce Brosnan’s Doctor Fate steals scenes with his suave wisdom, and Aldis Hodge’s Hawkman offers a strong moral counterpoint to Adam. The younger heroes, Atom Smasher and Cyclone, inject humor and heart, hinting at a promising team dynamic for future stories, even if they’re sidelined here.
Weaknesses and Criticisms
Generic and Disjointed Plot
Despite its antihero angle, Black Adam leans on a formulaic superhero structure: ancient prophecy, evil artifact, and a climactic CGI brawl. The script, by Adam Sztykiel, Rory Haines, and Sohrab Noshirvani, feels rushed, with too many characters and subplots crammed into a 125-minute runtime. Critics noted its “rote” storytelling and lack of emotional depth, making it hard to connect with Adam’s journey or Kahndaq’s stakes.
Underdeveloped Characters
Beyond Johnson and Brosnan, the cast lacks room to shine. The JSA members, particularly Cyclone and Atom Smasher, feel like afterthoughts, with minimal character development. The human characters, like Adrianna (Sarah Shahi) and her son Amon (Bodhi Sabongui), serve as plot devices rather than fully realized figures. The villain, Ishmael (Marwan Kenzari), is a forgettable evil-for-evil’s-sake antagonist, undermining the film’s climax.
Tonal and Pacing Issues
Black Adam struggles to balance its gritty antihero vibe with the DCEU’s broader, sometimes campy tone. Attempts at humor, like Amon’s quips, often fall flat, and the film’s pacing stumbles with expository flashbacks and a bloated third act. Critics described it as “overstuffed” and “chaotic,” with the DCEU’s rushed attempt to set up future projects—like a much-hyped post-credits cameo—feeling forced.
Reception and Impact
Black Adam received mixed reviews, earning a 38% “Rotten” rating on Rotten Tomatoes (317 reviews) with a 5.1/10 average, though audiences were more forgiving, giving it an 88% Popcornmeter score and a B+ CinemaScore. On X, fans praised Johnson’s intensity and the action but criticized the “messy” plot and weak villains. The film grossed $401 million worldwide, breaking even but falling short of expectations for a Johnson-led blockbuster. Its HBO Max release boosted viewership, but its role in the DCEU’s future remains uncertain amid 2023’s franchise reboot.
Should You Watch It?
Black Adam (2022) is a visually spectacular, action-heavy superhero film that thrives on Dwayne Johnson’s star power and the JSA’s potential but falters with a predictable plot and underdeveloped characters. Fans of high-energy comic book movies or DC’s darker edge will enjoy its thunderous battles and antihero vibe. However, those seeking a cohesive story or deep emotional resonance may find it lacking. Stream it on Max or rent it for a fun, popcorn-flick experience, but don’t expect a game-changer for the DCEU.