9 June 2017.
WONDER WOMAN ***
Yes, she is! In every way a wonder, and a woman of curiosity, beauty, strength and caring. For that is the attraction of this latest blockbuster, directed by Patty Jenkins (whose 2004 film “Monster” won an Oscar for Charlize Theron) – it’s a balanced mix of romanticized Greek mythology along with thrilling popcorn action and a few amusing reflections on man/woman relations.
This Diana/Wonder Woman embodies all that is good in humanity – not just another facile copy of a destructive, male superhero, or an ultra-feminist advocate.
The lovely, statuesque Israeli actress Gal Gadot is quite perfect as the heroine who doesn’t quite realize her powers until somewhere in the middle of the film, when she learns her true origins and responsibilities. Because a handsome young spy from WWI (a delightful Chris Pine) crashes unto the idyllic island of the ancient Amazones, Diana is thrust into an evil, real world for the first time in her innocent existence.
So this transition from a peaceful, protected enclave of women to a raging world war is a sort of baptism by fire for this gentle warrior. A woman under both physical and moral duress, discovering her capacities as a savior.
To portray all this sincerity from a simple comic book series started in 1941 is some task, and we can thank director Jenkins for her credo to “tell a story about a hero who believes in love and the betterment of mankind”, making it both exciting and worthwhile. This is an action film with heart – Brava!
Superb **** Very Good *** Good ** Mediocre * Miserable – no stars
By Neptune
Neptune Ravar Ingwersen reviews film extensively for publications in Switzerland. She views 4 to 8 films a week and her aim is to sort the wheat from the chaff for readers.
For more stories like this on Switzerland follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
