Not only does the second installment of Shazam! join the DC universe, but it also resonates with a multitude of other hits from Warner Bros., and even more than that!
Two Versions of Annabelle
Not just a single mention, both versions of the eerie Annabelle doll make an appearance in David F. Sandberg’s latest blockbuster. When Shazam! heads to the pediatric ward to seek treatment, the camera pans over the entertainment area, revealing the Annabelle movie and an actual Annabelle doll sitting on a shelf.
The Goonies Shirt
As the Shazam! family embarks on their quest, one member is spotted wearing a shirt emblazoned with the logo of The Goonies. This iconic film centers around a group of adventurous kids, featuring Asian-American star Quan Kế Huy, who won an Oscar in 2023.
Justice League References
As usual, the Justice League continues to be referenced throughout the DC film project. In Shazam! Fury of the Gods, Shazam! compares himself with other superheroes such as Superman, Batman, and Aquaman, asserting that he is not to be underestimated. In a humorous moment, Freddie Freeman compares Shazam’s abilities to Batman, suggesting a strong resemblance between the two heroes.
Fast & Furious and the “Family”
To highlight the fierce competition in this installment, Shazam! has a plan that involves not only the daughters of Atlas – Hespera but also their family dynamics. To “honor” Hespera, Shazam! mentions that he has watched the entire Fast & Furious series and concludes that family is everything.
Shazam! 70s Version
When Shazam! battles Kalypso, many onlookers can spot a familiar face. One of the bystanders is played by Michael Gray, who portrayed Billy Batson in the 1970s animated series of Shazam. This character even wears the same costume and shares the iconic phrase, “Shazam, Captain Marvel!” – the original name of Shazam!
Wonderland of Gods
The hidden chamber of the Shazam! family contains countless doors leading to various realms. One of these doors leads to the Wonderland of Gods, also known as Grimmworld in the comics. This is the habitat of many mythical creatures such as cyclops, and other beings.
Khaleesi Reference
During the battle with Kalypso, Shazam! humorously calls her Khaleesi. This is the original name of Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones. The reason Shazam! makes this reference is that at that moment, Kalypso is perched atop the dragon Ladon guarding the Golden Apple in Greek mythology.
Harry Potter
As this film is associated with various franchises, Shazam! Fury of the Gods includes many nods to the Harry Potter series. In a scene filled with comedic moments, Freddy Freeman likens Shazam to Hagrid because of his robust physique. He then delivers the line, “You’re like the coolest uncle out there!” echoing Hagrid’s famous introduction upon meeting Harry Potter in the first installment.
Moreover, the magical library hidden in the Shazam! family home features flying books and a quill that writes itself, reminiscent of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Wonder Woman Cameo
This is undoubtedly the grandest and most unexpected Easter egg in Shazam! Fury of the Gods. At the end of the film, Wonder Woman makes a surprise appearance, using her powers to aid Shazam! However, in a bittersweet twist, Diana is the “girl next door” in Shazam!’s life, to the extent that he begins to envision her in his dreams while encountering a villain.
Shazam! Fury of the Gods is currently showing in theaters.
