This morning I woke up thinking only a true goddess like Diana Prince could save Christmas in 2020. But…did she?
Wonder Woman 1984 brings our beloved Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) into the world of parachute pants and break dancing as she finds herself up against Maxwell Lord (Pedro Pascal) and a superhuman villainess, Cheetah (Kristen Wiig).
Wonder Woman 1984 is not as strong as its predecessor narratively or structurally. It takes the veins of corny comic book plot points rather than strong and engaging storytelling.
Having the central storyline be about a wish stone is the definition of silly — especially when you realize that Pedro Pascal is basically romping around like a genie in a suit.
Wonder Woman as a whole deserved better than this entire plot. I know the franchise is capable of greatness. Look at the original — it’s brilliant.
In my opinion, Patty Jenkins was too ambitious with this sequel. She took on too many different elements and fell into the unfortunate pattern most comic book sequels land in. Jenkins, I KNOW you could have done better. You’re too good for this and so is our Wonder Woman.
However, in a time where the world is in shambles and needs an opportunity to escape into, Wonder Woman 1984 succeeds.
Between watching Diana and Steve fly through cascading fireworks aboard the invisible jet or witnessing the final CGI-stuffed battle between Cheetah and Wonder Woman, I admit I was mindlessly entertained.
There were elements I did really like. For example, I cannot put into words how much I loved Chris Pine’s Steve Trevor experiencing 1984 — all while sporting a fanny pack. I haven’t giggled since much in ages. And I was pleasantly surprised with both Pedro Pascal and Kristen Wiig, who are very charismatic and endearing.
If you know anything about me, I love the character of Wonder Woman. To me, Diana Prince is perfection on every level and I am always happy to watch her kick ass.
I just wish there was a better story supporting her this time around.
Final Thoughts: Wonder Woman 1984 is far from perfect and a narrative mess, but it is fun.
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