Wonder Woman Movie Review

There’s another superhero in town, and she’s not messing around.  I was able to attend an advanced screening of the new Wonder Woman movie earlier this week and I’m just going to say it.  Wonder Woman is the best movie I’ve seen this year.  And that says a lot since I really enjoyed Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Pirates of the Caribbean, Logan, and Beauty and the Beast (among many others).  I don’t know if it’s the shield, the sword, or the Lasso of Truth, but whatever it is, I can’t wait to see her make another appearance in the Justice League in November.  But for now, here’s my Wonder Woman Movie Review!

Wonder Woman Movie Review

First, a little background on Wonder Woman, portrayed by Gal Gadot (who is excellent in this role).  We were initially able to get a glimpse of her in Batman v. Superman, as well as a certain photograph.  This is important because Wonder Woman (the movie) begins with the photograph and the story behind it.  Who is she?  Where did she come from?

The beginning of the movie introduces us to Wonder Woman as a child.  Her name is Diana, and she is growing up on an island called Themyscira, which is inhabited by Amazons.  Her mom is Queen Hippolyta and her aunt is General Antiope.  Both are highly skilled warriors.  In fact, all the Amazons are highly skilled warriors and describing them as strong women would be an understatement.  One of the things I really enjoyed about this movie are the references to greek mythology.  I don’t want to reveal any spoilers but we learn more about her father and her reason for being.

Diana does eventually leave her island when Steve Trevor (portrayed by Chris Pine) makes an appearance.  That’s when Diana starts on her quest and we get a glimpse of Wonder Women in all her glory.  The cinematography is amazing, the fight sequences spectacular, and the acting well done.  And while the overall tone is serious, there are some lighthearted moments between some of the characters.

Is the movie appropriate for young children?  It’s rated PG-13, so as always, use your discretion.  My son, at 4 years old, is too young to see the movie.  There is at least one love scene, but it doesn’t go beyond kissing.  There really isn’t any foul language either.  However, there is violence, so that would be the deciding factor.

As for me, I invited my mom along as my guest to the advanced screening.  While I know my husband will enjoy seeing the movie, I had hoped this would be a great mother/daughter movie (my mom loved watching the Wonder Woman series on TV starring Lynda Carter).  I wasn’t disappointed.  I think Wonder Woman is a great role model.  She’s confident and she believes in herself.  And she won’t back down.

And speaking of not backing down, the ending definitely took me by surprise.  The final battle scene is epic.  And if I could pick a theme song for Wonder Woman, it would be Firework by Katy Perry. “‘Cause baby you’re a firework, come on show ’em what your worth, make ’em go ‘Oh, oh, oh!’  As you shoot across the sky-y-y…”

I can’t wait to see more of Wonder Woman in the years to come.