What Worked for Wonder Woman?
As a film lover who does not consider himself a superhero fanatic, Wonder Woman was a film that I came out of pleasantly suprised. Excluding The Dark Knight, I tend to lose interest of superhero franchises. Most repeat the same storylines, character archetypes, and stylistic preferences. That is not to say that Wonder Woman strays away from those choices, but it adds a fresh spin on the superhero franchise that I think works well for what it is. What drove me to watch the film was that it casts a female lead and additionally brought on a female director. Aside from those bold decisions, what made Wonder Woman really work?
First, it must be said that the casting was exceptional. Gal Gadot does a splendid job as our new Wonder Woman, but it’s also the supporting roles that should be receiving some credit as well. Chris Pine plays the sidekick that adds plenty of comedy relief, and Robin Knight also drives home a compelling cameo. Without such a top-notch cast, the film would’ve lacked in tone and personality, which these actors provided in fantastic fashion.
Second, is the story. NO SPOILERS, but it is obvious that this is Wonder Woman’s origin story. We observe her growing up, motivated to become the best warrior of her native land, Themyscira. When a war pilot (Chris Pine) crashes his plane on the shores of her island, she is compelled to help him, and the conflict gradually evolves the more we learn from the pilot. Greek mythology is cleverly tied in well with the travesty that is World War I, and it adds depth to the story. Without giving too much away, the story is not too complex to grasp and gives the audience plenty of reward.
The previous elements mentioned are important to this film, but the aspect that was done exceptionally well that kept me interested above all else was the editing. Edited by Martin Walsh, who has edited Chicago (2002), V for Vendetta (2005), and Clash of the Titans (2010), is deserving of huge praise. The pacing is quick, but not choppy. Cutting between dialogue is on par, and the timing even in the more comedic scenes in London, are executed superbly, which is also in Walsh’s wheelhouse being that he has edited Bridgette Jone’s Diary (2001). Until this film, I was reminded that no matter how dull or regurgitated the subject matter is, if the project is edited well, the audience will grasp onto the story seamlessly. In other words, excellent editing enhances the film.
With that being said, I encourage anyone to go see Wonder Woman as I am curious to hear from those like myself who aren’t compelled by superhero franchises. A good film is a good film, and I had to let my past criticisms of Suicide Squad and Dr. Strange go in order to approach this film with open arms. I suggest you do the same, my like-minded film buffs. Go see a stunning female like Gal Gadot smash in some faces!
