Latin Culture in the Spotlight

Read Time:3 Minute, 37 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Blue Beetle
–

Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 2h 7m
Director(s): Angel Manuel Soto
Writer(s): Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer
Cast: Xolo Maridueña, Bruna Marquezine, Susan Sarandon, Raoul Max Trujillo, Belissa Escobedo, Damián Alcázar, Elpidia Carrillo, George Lopez, Adriana Barraza, Becky G
Where To Watch: available now, order here www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: BLUE BEETLE sets the stage for an unforgettable journey through the lives of age-old legends mixed with modern dilemmas, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Palmera City and brought to life through a canon already established in the universe. When you first see this narrative, you'll feel it; it's a fresh perspective in the superhero world and a welcome one, though not without its bumps.

Our protagonist, Jaime Reyes, portrayed by Xolo Maridueña, is the epitome of hopes and dreams and the roadblocks that must be overcome. Hoping to find a stable footing through Kord Industries and its apparent successor, Jenny Kord, Jaime pushes to make the most of his situation. A not-so-ordinary encounter with an extraterrestrial scarab sets him on a path he never imagined.

Director Angel Manuel Soto's BLUE BEETLE is a tale shimmering with optimism and vibrant hues. Though its storyline is engaging, it could benefit from a touch of finesse, and the core storyline could use more originality. The emotional depth is palpable, giving the audience a chance to resonate, though whispers about its similarity to legendary superhero sagas linger in the background. I mean, I honestly don’t remember the last time a superhero movie brought literal tears to my eyes, so that has to count for something!

Navigating the rocky terrain of his superhero journey, Jaime finds himself squaring off against the formidable Victoria Kord of Kord Industries, played by Susan Sarandon. The spotlight on Latin American ethos is refreshing; although I feel the film had some hurdles in its representation, I’m not the best person to ask. The camaraderie and dynamics within the Reyes family form the emotional backbone of the film, making it memorable.

Soto showcases his craft brilliantly, especially when emphasizing the Reyes family's bond. Visually, BLUE BEETLE is a treat, keeping audiences glued to their seats. Bruna Marquezine's Jenny Kord embodies fierce determination, forming a stark contrast to Victoria's overpowering desire for the alien scarab's potential. I also appreciated that the female characters in the film could hold their own (to an almost comical level at times), a welcome departure from the constant damsel-in-distress roles seen in superhero films.

BLUE BEETLE sets itself apart with its unique narrative blend and a salute to Latino traditions. The humor, the challenges, and the family moments—all strike a chord. Both Maridueña and Marquezine shine, delivering performances that resonate, holding their own against seasoned performers. I’m glad that Blue Beetle will be one of the characters that carry over to the new universe.

BLUE BEETLE is a compelling mix of drama, humor, and cultural exploration. While there's room for improvement, it's a commendable addition to the superhero world, making us anticipate its next installment. Welcome to the DC Universe, Blue Beetle.

For more reviews, please visit – https://linktr.ee/Overlyhonestmoviereviews for more info.

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY HOME ENTERTAINMENT]

MY SAG-AFTRA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

#SAGAFTRA #SAGAFTRAStrong