Movie review
October 19, 2022 · 125 min · PG-13
Woke Score
Lower is better
Review
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.
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.
Woke political dialogue
Dialogue stays on heroism, revenge, and protection with almost no modern activist language or lectures.
Identity-driven story themes
Core story centers on a champion defending his oppressed homeland from tyrants and corporate invaders in a fantasy setting.
Western institutional / cultural critique
Portrays ancient kings and modern corporate thugs as exploiters, but without activist-style attacks on patriarchy, capitalism, or Western institutions.
Woke character or canon changes
Publicly discussed recasts of Hawkman and Cyclone alter traditional comic appearances and identities.
Anti-woke backlash and complaints
Conservative reviews flagged race politics and casting choices; some viewers welcomed the lack of messaging.
Creator track record context
Dwayne Johnson has spoken against woke trends; other key creatives lack notable activist histories.
Production
