Continuing the saga of The Flash, Blue Beetle is the 14th film and also marks one of the final projects wrapping up the expansive DC Extended Universe (DCEU). This film has garnered attention for introducing a superhero who has not appeared in any prior installments.
It is considered a strong direction under James Gunn – the head of DC Studios – as the studio is actively building an entirely new cinematic universe.
The “Blue Beetle” Hero
The main character in the film is Jaime Reyes (Xolo Maridueña) – a 22-year-old who unexpectedly gains superpowers from an extraterrestrial beetle called Scarab, which resembles a blue beetle. The Scarab resides on him, transforming into a protective suit that safeguards him.
Whenever Jaime finds himself in a dangerous situation, the Scarab automatically forms a special armor around his body. Jaime quickly evolves into the superhero Blue Beetle, bravely battling against a dark and oppressive system.
The film’s plot is fairly straightforward, following the familiar trope of a protagonist who suddenly acquires superpowers from an alien source. Initially, Jaime struggles to control the Scarab’s immense power. However, over time, he gradually learns to harness and master the advanced abilities it provides.
The work carries a family-friendly tone, reminiscent of Shazam! (2019). Many scenarios and humorous dialogues are cleverly interwoven, enhancing the entertainment value of the film. The script is constructed simply, allowing viewers unfamiliar with comic books to easily grasp the storyline.
In addition to the epic battles of Blue Beetle, the film also delves deeply into the character of Jaime Reyes. As a young man, he faces significant challenges in life while searching for employment.
His family is depicted as tightly-knit, supporting each other through hardships, portraying a sense of optimism and joy that serves as a significant source of strength for Jaime.
The film cleverly intertwines elements of Latin culture, distinguishing it from many other superhero films. Throughout the story, the filmmakers aim to convey themes of family ties and the strength of community. This idea is not only relevant but is also effectively and engagingly executed.
A Key Chapter in the DCEU
For the struggling DCEU, Blue Beetle is significant as it wraps up the current universe while simultaneously opening the door to a new cinematic realm.
The film also contains several references to other superheroes, creating interconnections. However, these details are relatively minor and do not heavily impact the main narrative.
Previous DC projects like The Flash and Shazam! Fury of the Gods significantly underperformed at the box office, despite featuring established characters. This time, the studio chose to take a step back by selecting a lesser-known superhero, and the cast is relatively new.
Portraying the main role is Xolo Maridueña – known from the series Cobra Kai. He captivates audiences with a natural performance, displaying a relatable and genuine character.
In an interview with Variety, Maridueña expressed pride in being cast as the first Latino superhero in DC. This is a significant milestone in the actor’s career, born in 2002, paving the way for him to become a new star in the future.
Alongside Xolo Maridueña, the supporting cast is impressive, helping to elevate the narrative.
The film is directed by Ángel Manuel Soto – a relatively unknown figure in Hollywood. However, the Puerto Rican director ensures that the scenes are executed perfectly, delivering a product that remains engaging from start to finish.
The action sequences are a highlight, leaving a strong impression on the audience. Jaime’s transformation into Blue Beetle evokes comparisons to Iron Man’s suit, or the characters in the Kamen Rider series.
The character’s advanced technology adds diversity, making the film visually appealing. At times, Jaime uses gadgets and weapons, showcasing the versatility of his abilities.
Notably, Blue Beetle’s armor can generate wings, allowing Jaime to fly while also providing protection. Depending on different scenarios, the armor will transform into specific shapes to enhance the character’s strength.
The greatest flaw of Blue Beetle is its adherence to typical superhero film conventions. This familiar template makes the film less surprising and engaging. The performances also lack the depth that could leave a lasting impression.
Despite this, the film has received positive feedback upon release, achieving a “Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes with 76% from critics and 92% from audiences.
In Vietnam, Blue Beetle has quickly gained attention. According to Box Office Vietnam, the film ranked second in the box office charts last week, only trailing behind the blockbuster Oppenheimer.
Overall, while Blue Beetle does not break new ground in terms of ideas or content, the natural performances and the vibrant energy of the cast have helped the film resonate positively with the audience.
