5) The Characters Feel Like Real People
Most movies can’t quite convince viewers to look past the actor playing the role and immerse themselves in the character being portrayed. It’s not that the viewers don’t want to; it’s that they can’t. Whether it’s uninspired direction, bad acting, or both, there’s usually a reason behind being unable to suspend disbelief. Many superhero films, especially those who come stamped with the DC logo, feature characters who might as well be made of stone.
It’s unfair that Batman V. Superman and Suicide Squad tasked Wonder Woman with regaining the trust and admiration of millions, but the film tackles the challenge with a grace uncharacteristic of DC’s efforts. Part of its success lies in its ability to breathe life and love into characters who could have been dull and lifeless. Gadot, Chris Pine, David Thewlis and many of the film’s pivotal players pour vast amounts of energy and enthusiasm into their respective roles, bolstering their performances and creating the illusion that we’re experiencing the film’s events with them.
It’s a welcome deviation from the wooden delivery and forced reactions that made Henry Cavill and Amy Adams such bores in Man of Steel and Batman V Superman. Wonder Woman feels organic and intimate in ways the DCEU’s preceding instalments weren’t and couldn’t hope to be.
