It's safe to say that while the DCEU has lagged a bit behind the Marvel Universe, its recent offerings have got the heroes back on track - now Shazam! can be added to that list.
Zachary Levi brings a child-like wonder back to the franchise giving us a hero that's not only more relatable but also more human. At least as human you can be when dealing with magic and wizards.
The end result is a joyful film that leaves you feeling upbeat compared to the emotional and darker blockbusters of late.
Justice League and Batman v Superman divided fans and moviegoers with their darker tone, but there's none of that problem here.
Shazam! follows Billy Batson, a 14-year-old boy who is desperately trying to find his mum after being separated from her at a fairground when he was a toddler.
His search has seen his running away from foster home after foster home until finally, he ends up in a new family set up with a group of misfit kids.
When Billy actually stands up for one of them at school he finds himself transported to a cave, or is that lair? where a wizard tells him to say his name and his power will flow through him - all in a self-aware humorous way of course.
What follows sweeps you up in the sheer child-like wonder and excitement as Billy - now the older Zachary Levi - revels in his new powers, an ear-splitting grin permanently on his face.
Asher Angel as the younger Billy is a revelation as we're made to feel for this foster kid who just wants to find his mum.
Jack Dylan Grazer - who you'll recognise from IT - was the real scene-stealer as the foster kid on crutches who provides all the superhero knowledge Billy needs to nail his new found powers.
You'll find yourself backing both and cheering on their sweet and genuine new friendship.
Villain Sivana, played by Mark Strong, is also a straight-faced delight as he faces off against Shazam!
The battle between Sivana and Shazam! is the main reason to see the film in 3D, though it works well in both 2D and 3D.
The film hasn't been formatted for IMAX, but seeing it on the larger screen really pays off when you come to the bigger battle scenes and fairground moments.
The movie takes it's time to get to those moments as well, letting you get to know Billy and learn who Shazam is - helpful, considering most non-comic fans won't know the hero.
Shazam! delivers on all counts and is a strong feel-good film, with enough DC nods - there's a cool cameo at the end - and movie references (the Big piano moment) that children and parents will walk away feeling satisfied.
The story may be simple, but placing family and a clear plot at its heart, Shazam! ends up giving the DCEU a family-friendly film that's worth shouting about.
Shazam! is in cinemas now. You can check your nearest IMAX screenings here.
