20 Fun Facts and Trivia About the Shazam! Movie: Behind-the-Scenes Secrets and Interesting Insights
The world of superhero movies got a whole lot more fun with the release of “Shazam!” This family-friendly take on the superhero genre has everything you could want in a movie: action, humor, heart, and an incredible cast. From the moment the film begins, you’ll be pulled into the story of Billy Batson and his journey to becoming the powerful hero Shazam.
Throughout the movie, you’ll be on the edge of your seat as Billy discovers his powers and learns how to use them to protect his new foster family and the city of Philadelphia. The film is well-balanced between serious and humorous scenes, striking the perfect chord between drama and comedy. The actors, Zachary Levi, Asher Angel, Mark Strong, and Jack Dylan Grazer, all deliver great performances, and the special effects, soundtrack, and overall production are top-notch.
- Shazam! is based on the DC Comics character of the same name, who first appeared in Whiz Comics #2 in 1939.
- The character of Shazam was originally known as Captain Marvel before a trademark dispute with Marvel Comics resulted in a name change.
- The movie is directed by David F. Sandberg, best known for his horror film Lights Out and Annabelle: Creation.
- Zachary Levi was cast as the titular character, with Asher Angel as his teenage alter-ego, Billy Batson.
- The film’s plot revolves around Billy, a foster child who discovers he has the ability to transform into an adult superhero by saying the word “Shazam.”
- The film is considered to be a more light-hearted and family-friendly take on the traditional superhero movie genre.
- Shazam! was produced by New Line Cinema and DC Films, with a production budget of $100 million.
- The movie filmed in Toronto, Canada, began on January 2018 and was completed in May of the same year.
- Shazam! features a mix of practical and CGI effects, with the suit and many of the action sequences being created using practical effects.
- The film’s cast also includes Mark Strong as the villain Doctor Sivana, Djimon Hounsou as the Wizard Shazam, and Jack Dylan Grazer as Billy’s foster brother, Freddy Freeman.
- Levi underwent extensive physical training to prepare for the role of Shazam, gaining 20 pounds of muscle for the role.
- The movie’s soundtrack features a mix of classic rock songs, including tracks from AC/DC, Queen, and Black Sabbath.
- Shazam! had its world premiere at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, California on March 23, 2019.
- The film received generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising the humor and heart of the movie.
- The movie’s worldwide gross is $364 million, making it the sixth-highest-grossing film in the DC Extended Universe.
- Shazam! also featured a mid-credit scene that teased the arrival of Black Adam, a powerful ancient Egyptian hero who will be the main villain in the upcoming sequel of the movie.
- The film’s main villain Dr. Sivana is portrayed by Mark Strong, who previously played the villainous character Sinestro in the 2011 film Green Lantern.
- The movie’s director David F. Sandberg originally had no interest in making a superhero movie and was convinced by Dwayne Johnson to direct the film.
- Actor Zachary Levi was a huge fan of the character, and his audition process was quite difficult as he had to perform multiple auditions.
- The main theme of the movie is family, as it’s focused on a foster family, which adds a different dynamic to the typical superhero movie formula.
In conclusion, “Shazam!” is a film that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a superhero movie fan, a fan of the comics, or just looking for a fun and entertaining movie experience, this film is sure to deliver. It’s an exciting, action-packed, and heartwarming movie, that definitely worth your time and money. With a great balance of humor and heart, “Shazam!” is a superhero movie that stands out from the rest and it’s a must-see for anyone who loves the genre.