Watch Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman is an animated superhero film that was released in 2009. The movie boasts a powerful star-studded voice cast, including Keri Russell as the eponymous character, Nathan Fillion as Steve Trevor, Alfred Molina as Ares, and Rosario Dawson as Artemis. This film offers an enthralling blend of mythology, action, and adventure, presenting an origin story that delves into the rich lore of the Wonder Woman character from DC Comics.

The narrative begins on the mystical island of Themyscira, hidden from the rest of the world and inhabited by the Amazonians—warrior women created by the Olympian gods to protect mankind. These women live in a society free from the influence of men, where they hone their skills in combat and governance. The Amazons are led by Queen Hippolyta, who has a daughter, Princess Diana—later known to the world as Wonder Woman. Themyscira offers a unique and beautiful landscape portraying an idyllic paradise, encapsulating the peace and determination of the Amazons, yet hinting at the repressed yearnings for exploration and adventure that reside in young Diana's heart.

The film then provides a backstory for the island of Themyscira, detailing its origins and the Amazons' constant readiness to defend their home from any threats. It describes how the Amazons were granted a life of peace as a reward for their battle against oppression but were tasked also with guarding the dangerous prisoner, Ares, the god of war, who is shown to be the film's primary antagonist.

Wonder Woman is not just about the fantastical elements of its setting. When the modern world suddenly intrudes upon Themyscira's seclusion in the form of a daring fighter pilot named Steve Trevor, who crash-lands on the island, Diana's life and the fate of the world takes an unexpected turn. Diana's encounter with Steve serves as a catalyst for her journey, and through a series of events, she is soon thrust into the bustling world of men. The movie demonstrates her initial wonderment and confusion as she navigates through a society so different from her own, full of complexities and contradictions compared to her previously sheltered existence.

Keri Russell's portrayal of Diana is at once regal and relatable, embodying the character's strength, curiosity, and compassion. Diana's interactions with Steve Trevor, voiced by Nathan Fillion, bring forth an endearing dynamic filled with witty banter and mutual respect, as they both realize they have much to learn from each other. Their mission is to stop the sinister plans of Ares, who Alfred Molina imbues with a chilling menace. He seeks to overthrow the gods and unleash chaos upon the world through conflict and warfare, believing that this is where humanity's true nature lies.

As Diana adapts to life beyond Themyscira, she discovers the complexities of human emotions and relationships, as well as the darkness that can reside within humans—something the Amazons have been shielded from for centuries. Still, Wonder Woman's commitment to justice and her compassion for others shines through, making her an inspiring and powerful figure.

Action sequences in Wonder Woman are masterfully animated, showcasing Diana's combat prowess and her iconic weapons, including the Lasso of Truth, her unbreakable bracelets, and her tiara which acts as a boomerang. These elements of Amazonian strength and heritage are key aspects of her character, and the animation style of the film brings them to life with energy and vibrancy, accompanied by a score that deftly captures the excitement of battle and the soul of the character.

Notably, the film doesn't shy away from exploring the themes of war and peace, strength and compassion, or the roles men and women play in society and in relation to each other. There is an underlying narrative about the capacity for change within people and societies and how individuals can rise above violence and hatred.

Wonder Woman also explores the burden of legacy and responsibility through Diana's drive to live up to the expectations of her Amazonian heritage while also forging her path. The character's development is central to the narrative, and through her eyes, we witness the trials and triumphs of what it means to be a hero.

The 2009 Wonder Woman film stands out as an engaging introduction to a character who would become even more central to the DC Universe in subsequent years. It presents an immersive mythology, well-crafted action, and a thoughtful reflection on themes that are still relevant today. For both newcomers and longtime fans, Wonder Woman provides a compelling experience, solidifying the character's status as a cultural icon and a beacon of strength, empowerment, and hope.

Wonder Woman is a 2009 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.