Movie Breakdown: Wonder Woman 1984

Pre-Screening Stance:

My opinion of Patty Jenkins’ Wonder Woman is a positive one, but I have to admit that my recent refresher-watch was only the second time I’ve seen the film since it hit theaters back in 2017. Well, I guess I’ve technically seen it two and a half times – I know I had it on in the background once. Anyways, will Wonder Woman 1984 do enough to stick with me? Here’s hoping.

Post-Screening Ramble:

Wonder Woman 1984 gets off to a great start. Young Diana (Lilly Aspell) is seen participating in an exciting, Olympic-like competition, one where she learns an important lesson. The films then jumps to Diana Prince/Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) in the 80s, where she works at the Smithsonian and spends her free time fighting crime and pining for her dead boyfriend, Steve Trevor (Chris Pine). Barbara Minerva (Kristen Wiig), a new co-worker of Diana’s, comes into the fold, as does Max Lord (Pedro Pascal), a schlocky businessman. Oh yeah, there’s also a magical, wish-granting rock, which is directly responsible for Steve’s resurrection, Barbara’s eventual enhancements, and Max’s extreme wealth and influence. Again, it really is a nice setup. The action, the performances, the humor, the dialogue, etc. – it’s all there and dialed in … and then the film bloats and bloats and ultimately loses its way.

Weirdly, there’s both too much and not enough going on in WW84. Overall, the action is surprisingly limited, and the 80s shtick, which could have at least provided a fun sandbox to play in, disappears after the first act or so. Gadot is once again fantastic in the titular role and Pine’s return is a welcomed one, but the film’s convoluted plot eventually swallows up Wiig and Pascal and practically renders their characters useless. You’d think that with a hefty two and a half hour runtime there would be enough room for two villains, but somehow this film doesn’t have the space. In the end, WW84 looks the part of the comic book blockbuster that it’s expected to be, but on the inside it’s a poorly constructed affair.

The film hits HBO Max on Christmas Day. It’s worth a watch, just be sure to lower your expectations.

One Last Thought:

Gal Gadot and Chris Pine are not only immensely easy on the eyes, but their on-screen chemistry is palpable. Someone should create a show where the two of them just wander around and do mundane things. I would never ever miss an episode.