Shazam!

Billy Batson is a wary teen bouncing between foster homes when a chance encounter leads him to a hidden temple and a wise ancient wizard. The wizard tests Billy and grants him a magical power that turns him into an adult superhero simply by speaking a single word. When Billy shouts Shazam, a confident, cape wearing hero appears who can draw on a mix of legendary abilities while retaining a kid's honesty and mischief. He teams up with his new friend Freddy Freeman to figure out how to use this power responsibly while staying under the radar in a city that needs saving. A dangerous foe, Dr Sivana, rises as a major threat and pushes Billy to grow up fast.

Directed by David F. Sandberg and released in 2019, Shazam! brings to life the DC Comics hero created by Bill Parker and C C Beck, with Henry Gayden writing the screenplay for fans of lighthearted action and sharp humor everywhere.

The film earned about 140 million in the United States and roughly 226 million overseas, delivering a worldwide gross around 366 million and signaling solid box office performance for a lighter DC entry that resonated with families and casual audiences.

Shazam! helped set a lighter tone within the DC lineup and introduced a memorable kid in a grown up body dynamic that resonated with families. The title sparked affectionate memes and a recognizable catchphrase as Billy and his misfit crew become part of pop culture, for a broad audience everywhere.

Critics generally praised the humor and warmth, noting that the film balances action with heart. Key themes include identity and belonging, responsibility that comes with power, the value of chosen family, and how friendship helps a teen grow into who they can be. The approach drew critics yet stayed refreshing.