Blue Beetle... Reviewed!

Special thanks to WB for supplying a copy of this film to review, our opinions are our own.

To start off, I must say that Blue Beetle offers an enjoyable movie experience. The filmmakers' evident passion and dedication to the source material shine through once you see the special features (then you make connections if you aren't familiar with the comic book series. Their goal was to create a superhero adventure that stands out from the rest while staying true to the original comic as much as possible. In many ways, they have succeeded, introducing us to Jaime Reyes, a Latino superhero taking on the mantle of Blue Beetle (played by actor Xolo Maridueña from the Kobra Kai TV series). Is the movie worth the purchase? Well, let's find out.

Story: In this film, we follow Jaime, a recent college graduate who is on a quest to find his purpose and a fulfilling career in Palmera City. Little does he know that his path will take an unexpected turn when he comes in contact with the Scarab, an ancient relic of alien biotechnology, which transforms him into the Blue Beetle.

While the film has its merits, it does have one notable flaw that lies in certain acting performances, which can be attributed to the writing and directing. Susan Sarandon's portrayal of the main antagonist, Victoria Kord, comes across as somewhat... cheesy and unconvincing. It feels as though she is trying too hard to embody the role of a formidable baddy but falls short of hitting the mark. It serves as a reminder that the quality of acting should take precedence over the fame of the actor. The actor (Raoul Max Trujillo) who played Carapax... owned it.

It would've proven more effective if she were the boss who harbored bitterness from past events, unaware that a secret was brewing within the company that she unconsciously was being used for. It would have been a surprising twist if she wasn't directing Carapax's actions, but more so the spark that justified the outcome. This would have made her character more authentic and their relationship more genuine... with a twist. Unfortunately, her wannabe cold-hearted nature could have been better portrayed in this approach over trying to be the big bad boss that falls short. While the director shares some blame, Victoria Kord comes off as a sassy manager. Dr. Sanchez could've been the one pulling the strings or working for Carapax in my opinion.

On the other hand, Jaime's grandmother showed promise, but the action scenes lacked oomph and could have been executed more effectively. The responsibility for this lies with the writer and director. I understand the desire to maintain a bit of comedy with select characters, but it felt like serious scenes with a touch of... Spy Kids during some of them (not to say it was bad, but it was a bit... wonky). 

The director struck again during a vital scene with Milagro Reyes (played by Belissa Escobedo) and her father that shifted the focus onto something less significant than what occurred shortly after with the family's home. This had nothing to do with the acting. All it would've taken was for Milagro to look at their home and then hug her father because the biggest concern was already at play. I believe this won't spoil the scene, but it gives you an idea of how simple it could have been to fix this weird moment.

Despite its flaws, the interactions between Jaime and his family add a lot of warmth to the film, making it a standout feature. It almost felt like a sitcom on the big screen, and that's a positive aspect. Without his family, the movie would have lacked an essential element and would have felt dull. Their chemistry and relationships create a perfect combination and are a significant strength of the film.

The cliffhanger ending of the movie leaves a lot to ponder. It hints at a potential sequel, but it's safe and may leave audiences unsure of the future. I feel like a sequel is justified for the simple fact that the Blue Beetle just got started, and we should be able to see him living the life of a full-fledged Superhero.

By the way, I have to give it to Rudy Reyes (played by George Lopez). He captured the unofficial sidekick role well even though many could fill these shoes in one way or another. He was utilized well, though his paranoia could have played a deeper role by way of doing things to confirm his suspicions. Maybe this would have opened the door that tied the grandmother's backstory in more because his uncle would have seen and heard things. 

There is always room in a sequel to dive deeper now that this film has taken flight, but we shall see.

Visuals: Visually, Blue Beetle is stunning, with impressive angles and visually pleasing shots. The city is vibrant, and the special effects were on point. 

Audio: The audio was also solid, although the theme music lacks something. All the music in that film, and that's the theme that they landed on? It's a short unfulfilling loop. I would've preferred a Latin hip-hop flare or something. There was enough playing in the film, so why not some theme music that borrowed from it?

Audio: Dolby Atmos TrueHD & Dolby Digital. While it doesn't show surround sound, it's there... don't worry (at least in 5.1 CH), and it enhances the experience.

Price + Special Features: Pricewise, you can get the Blue Beetle in 4K for $29.96, on Blu-Ray + Digital for $24.96 (best value), and DVD for $19.96. The movie ships October 31, 2023!

Special Features:

Blue Beetle Generations: Origins, Production Begins, In Full Flight and A Hero's World

Scarab Vision: Episode 1: Initiation and Episode 2: Mastery

Blue Beetle's Nana Knows Best

All in all, Blue Beetle is an intriguing superhero film, with an engaging plot and endearing characters. It has its flaws, but it's still a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre.

Story 3

Visuals 5

Audio 5

Price + Features 5

4.5 out of 5 Cool Points

 + Sophima 

Support us via the helpful links below!

Blue Beetle | Jaime Reyes | Book One