CHICAGO – There is no better time to take in a stage play that is based in U.S. history, depicting the battle between fact and religion. The old theater chestnut – first mounted in 1955 – is “Inherit the Wind,” now at the Goodman Theatre, completing it’s short run through October 20th. For tickets and more information, click INHERIT.
Film Review: ‘Wonder Woman’ Creates Power with Social Justice
CHICAGO – There is a truth in the latest superhero epic, “Wonder Woman,” that is undeniable. The suppression of the power of woman in society, and denying the acceptance of all people – who just desire love – is the evil that can destroy the world. Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman saves the day.
Rating: 4.5/5.0 |
Like some of the Marvel Studios films, the strength of this rival DC superhero lies in the storytelling, and the themes that unfold meticulously throughout the situations. It’s also a rousing adventure, based on missions in World War I – the War to End all Wars – and a mysterious photograph. One of the top lead actors working in films, Chris Pine, also adds his dash as Wonder Woman’s male counterpart, who needs to learn his lessons in wartime as well. The action and fight sequences all have purpose, and are filmed by director Patty Jenkins in martial arts stop-and-start style, adding flair to the inevitable confrontations. Finally newcomer Gal Gadot captures the icon perfectly, and guides her through one of the greatest comic book philosophies ever created.
The island of Themyscira is a hidden paradise from the rest of the world. It contains a race of Amazon women – blessed by the Greek gods – who are at peace but are known for their warrior skills. Queen Hippolyta (Connie Nielsen) is raising Princess Diana (Gal Gadot) in the philosophy of her education as power, but Diana also wants to learn the ways of the warriors through her aunt, General Antiope (Robin Wright).
As Diana’s skills build to perfection, the outside world infiltrates the paradise. A plane lands in the ocean, and it is Diana who saves the pilot, Steve Trevor (Chris Pine). He is an American spy working in World War I, and is close to a uncovering a powerful German weapon. Diana agrees to let Steve get back in the action, but he must take her with him, because she knows that a warrior god named Aries is influencing the war. Wonder Woman is about to be born.
Gal Gadot is the Title Character in ‘Wonder Woman’
Photo credit: Warner Bros.