
Black Adam is a 2022 DC superhero action film starring Dwayne Johnson as Teth-Adam, an ancient warrior with god-like powers who returns to defend his homeland of Kahndaq from a modern crime syndicate called Intergang. The story blends large-scale fights against the Justice Society with questions about brutal justice versus mercy. Casting choices include a non-binary actor as Cyclone and a black actor as Hawkman, with producer comments highlighting diversity as a priority. Themes of resistance to tyranny and corporate exploitation appear but stay within standard action framing.
Community feedback
Was our 40% Woke rating accurate?
Breakdown
These are the editorial factors and ratings behind our score for Black Adam.
Woke representation / casting
Casting includes visible race and identity adjustments for Hawkman and Cyclone, with a non-binary performer in a key role and producer statements prioritizing diversity.
42%
Woke political dialogue
Dialogue stays on heroism, revenge, and protection with almost no modern activist language or lectures.
12%
Identity-driven story themes
Core story centers on a champion defending his oppressed homeland from tyrants and corporate invaders in a fantasy setting.
10%
Western institutional / cultural critique
Portrays ancient kings and modern corporate thugs as exploiters, but without activist-style attacks on patriarchy, capitalism, or Western institutions.
15%
Woke character or canon changes
Publicly discussed recasts of Hawkman and Cyclone alter traditional comic appearances and identities.
32%
Anti-woke backlash and complaints
Conservative reviews flagged race politics and casting choices; some viewers welcomed the lack of messaging.
28%
Creator track record context
Dwayne Johnson has spoken against woke trends; other key creatives lack notable activist histories.
0%
Production