The movie Black Adam, starring Dwayne Johnson, hit theaters in October 2022, after 15 years of waiting by the actor to bring this iconic DC antihero to life. However, its reception was disappointing both for critics and at the box office, grossing only $393.5 million worldwide, against a budget that exceeded $200 million. This figure reflects the disparity between the large investment made and its box office performance, which has triggered an analysis of the future of the DC universe.
A movie with the power of the stars, but that did not please the audience
The narrative of Black Adam unfolds across two timelines. In the past, 5,000 years ago, the fictional state of Kahndaq was a vibrant civilization that fell into the hands of King Ahk-Ton, played by Marwan Kenzari. This power-hungry monarch enslaved his people and sought the valuable element Eternium to forge the powerful crown of Sabbac. In the present, Kahndaq suffers under the control of Intergang, while scientist Adrianna Tomaz, played by Sarah Shahi, seeks that same crown, resulting in the accidental release of Teth-Adam, also known as Black Adam.
The film also features prominent members of the Justice Society of America, including Hawkman, Doctor Fate, Cyclone, and Atom. This group arrives in Kahndaq to assess the situation following the resurrection of Black Adam, leading to a confrontation that raises questions about the balance of power in this narrative universe.
Despite its disappointing reception, Black Adam is available on streaming platforms like HBO Max, Netflix, and Prime Video, serving as an essential resource for those interested in the history of the DC universe, which is undergoing a transformation with James Gunn leading a new approach, including a Superman movie currently in theaters.
