During a revealing interview on The FilmUp podcast, Zachary Levi, the charismatic and adored lead actor of “Shazam! Fury of the Gods,” openly discussed the movie’s box office performance and the varied responses it received from both critics and fans. Known for his captivating portrayal of the lovable superhero Shazam, Levi held nothing back as he delved into his reflections on the sequel’s reception since its release in March.
During the podcast, Levi candidly shared his thoughts on the sequel’s lukewarm reception. While he acknowledged that the audience response remained relatively positive, with an 86 percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, he couldn’t help but express his disappointment at the critics’ score, which stood at a mere 49 percent.
Levi firmly opposed the critics’ severe judgment, affirming that while “Shazam! Fury of the Gods” may not reach the level of an Orson Welles-like masterpiece, it undeniably stood as a darn good movie worthy of a more equitable appraisal.
Beyond the critiques, the actor delved into the impact of social media on the film’s box office performance. He highlighted the prevalence of online hate, trolls, and toxic factions, which he believes have contributed to the polarization surrounding the movie. Levi pointed out that some individuals might actively seek to undermine certain projects due to personal biases or dislikes, leading to a skewed perception of the film’s merits.
As for the future of the Shazam series, Levi candidly admitted that he was uncertain about what lies ahead. The mixed reception and challenges faced by the sequel have left him unsure of the franchise’s trajectory. However, he expressed optimism that with time, “Shazam! Fury of the Gods.”
While the sequel faced its share of obstacles, Zachary Levi’s passion and dedication to the project remained evident throughout the interview. His portrayal of Shazam has won the hearts of fans, making him a beloved figure in the superhero genre.
Aside from his involvement in the Shazam series, fans can catch Zachary Levi in his latest venture, “The Unbreakable Boy,” where he continues to showcase his versatile acting skills.
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, the conversation around movie reception and criticism becomes more nuanced. Regardless of the challenges, actors like Zachary Levi continue to bring their best to the screen, leaving an indelible mark on their audiences.
