I finally started watching some of the DC Showcase shorts that have been included with their recent DVD feature film releases. This particular short is actually a bit longer than the typical showcase’s of the past that were about 10-13 mins in length, with Shazam getting some much appreciated feature time coming in at a TV episode worth time of 22+ mins!
The first thing that caught my attention was the art style. After recently watching the Superman/Batman feature that was targeted toward a Michael Turner art style, this one is somewhat unique to me. It’s new and refreshing, however I kind of wish they would find some consistancy with the art styles that they’re going to use just to get some cohesiveness. The Animation was great, fast paced, and action packed. I still don’t know why they don’t include the “S” emblem on the back of Superman’s cape, but I certainly appreciate the removal of the jaw line that was found in Superman/Doomsday and the Justice League movies.
The story follows the tale of a young Billy Batson who is an orphaned young man just trying to be a good guy. He stands up to muggers, drinks milk, and spends his lunch hanging around Clark Kent in this film. Lunch is interrupted by the appearance of Black Adam, who is hellbent on killing the young Billy Batson before he can realize his destiny. Superman intervenes but is rudely reminded that Black Adam has magic which is one of Superman’s few vulnerabilities. Things really pick up once Billy meets a creepy old man in the subway and learns some new words and tricks.
Overall the short seems like a missing episode of Justice League Unlimited, especially with Tim Daly reprising his role as Clark Kent/Superman. I love the action, I love the show, and it really makes me wish they would resurrect the Justice League cartoon! If you have seen any of the episodes in the past, and enjoyed it, you would certainly enjoy this feature and comes strongly recommended.
