Posted by Richard Pulfer on Sep 1st, 2007
The Nines writer John August has just turned in his screenplay for the DC Comics adaptation, Shazam! The comic book flick follows 13 year old boy Billy Batson, who becomes a full-grown, square-chinned superhero whenever he speaks the magic word Shazam, which grants him the wisdom of Solomon, the strength of Hercules, the stamina of Atlas, the power of Zeus, the courage of Achilles and the speed of Mercury.
Unfortunately, even with all these powers combined, Captain Marvel is still a kid with a limited understanding of how things work and how things really are. That gives great potential for both action and comedy, August told MTV.
“If Captain Marvel didn’t pre-exist and there was just an idea of a 13-year-old boy who can speak a magic word and turn into a superhero — that’s a great idea,” August said. “If it hadn’t been around for 50 years and someone just wrote it as a spec script, that would sell cause it’s a really good idea.”
While I agree the action comedy is the best angle for the picture, I hope the comedy doesn’t completely wash out the rogue’s gallery - Captain Marvel has a great selection of villains, including quintessential mad scientist Dr. Sivana, conquering worm Mister Mind, the Seven Deadly Sins and Marvel’s own predecessor, and my personal favorite, the violent and complex anti-hero Black Adam.
Shazam! is set to be directed by Longest Yard and Get Smart director Peter Segal, and set for a 2008 release.
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