Film Journal 2023: The Marvels
Directed by Nia DaCosta
You’d have to be a legitimate grinch to hate this film. Or for that matter, to want to hate this film as it seems some are predispositioned to do. I get it, superhero fatigue is real. But if you can set that aside, even if for a moment, I think you’ll find a film that is charming, chalk full of fresh energy, a good deal of fun, and utilizes a tight script to keep the tension focused on the interpersonal dynamics and the stakes right in the sweet spot. Throw in a breezy hour and a half run time that forgoes the typical third act Marvel formula, and everything about this preaches worthy successor to Danvers’ splashy introduction.
Let’s not forget too, we aren’t that far removed from Captain Marvel bringing genuine and welcome change to the superhero universe. She gave plenty of young girls and young women someone to emulate and look up to, and this sequel gives time to exploring that relevance too, tying it nicely into the films thematic interests.
The real star of the show, aside from a banger scene with the iconic cat, is the dynamic trio. When it wasn’t going for the heartstrings, I had a grin on my face the whole time. The Director utilizes every moment of their on screen chemistry and antics. Based on my audience, it’s a genuine crowd pleaser.
The Stories of my Life 