Superman/Shazam!: The Return of Black Adam – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Superman/Shazam!: The Return of Black Adam

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

movie2010

62%

WISE Score

7.1

IMDb

A 25-minute DC animated short where Superman and Shazam team up against Black Adam—solid superhero action, nothing revolutionary.

7.1/10

→

Superman/Shazam!: The Return of Black Adam

movie

PG-13, 2010

62%

WISE Score

7.1

IMDb

A 25-minute DC animated short where Superman and Shazam team up against Black Adam—solid superhero action, nothing revolutionary.

7.1

Jump to

Also rated on

7.1/10

View →

Where to Watch

Loading streaming options...

Where-to-watch data byJustWatch

Screenwise Verdict

This is a perfectly serviceable DC animated short that does exactly what it says on the tin: Superman and Shazam fight Black Adam for 25 minutes. It's not going to blow anyone's mind—the ratings are solidly middle-of-the-road (63% RT audience, 7.0 IMDb, 3.2/5 Letterboxd)—but it's a decent introduction to the Shazam character if your kid only knows Superman.

The 2010 animation feels a bit dated now, and as a short bundled with other DC shorts, it doesn't have the polish or depth of a feature film. The violence is real enough that Common Sense Media pegs it at 10+, so this isn't for younger superhero fans. It's fine for a rainy afternoon if you've got HBO Max and have exhausted the better DC animated options, but there's nothing here that makes it essential viewing. Think of it as a solid B-tier superhero snack, not a meal.

Age Fit

Best for ages 10-14 who are into superhero content and can handle moderate action violence. Younger kids who've watched Marvel movies might be fine, but the 'murderous' villain ups the intensity. Teens will likely find it a bit juvenile and dated.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Classic superhero themes of courage, standing up for others, and protecting the innocent. Billy Batson's transformation into Captain Marvel centers on a young person gaining power and using it responsibly. The emotional tone is heroic and uplifting, though the villain Black Adam is 'murderous' per synopsis. Models cooperation between Superman and Shazam. Pacing is likely brisk given the short format.

Imaginative

Superhero fantasy with magical transformation elements (Billy Batson becoming Captain Marvel/Shazam) and the classic DC universe mythology. The concept of a young boy wielding ancient powers is inherently imaginative. However, as a short action piece, it likely prioritizes fight sequences over deep world-building or creative exploration. It's more spectacle than invitation to create.

Safe

Common Sense Media rates it for age 10, suggesting moderate superhero violence. The synopsis describes Black Adam as 'murderous' which indicates serious stakes and likely intense action sequences. As a DC animated short, expect punches, energy blasts, and property destruction typical of superhero battles. No indication of gore, sexual content, or other inappropriate elements, but the violence level is clearly elevated beyond younger-kid fare. Not surprising content for a superhero movie, but parents should expect real peril.

Enriching

Standard superhero fare with themes of responsibility and heroism. Billy Batson's story traditionally involves a foster kid learning to use power wisely, which has merit. The team-up with Superman models cooperation. However, as a 25-minute action short, there's limited room for character development or meaningful ethical exploration. IMDb 7.0 and Letterboxd 3.2/5 suggest it's competent but not exceptional. More entertainment than enrichment.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Quick introduction to Shazam/Captain Marvel for kids who know Superman but haven't met Billy Batson yet
Classic superhero team-up energy with two iconic DC characters working together
Short runtime means it won't overstay its welcome—perfect for a quick superhero fix
Billy Batson's story of a foster kid gaining magical powers has inherent underdog appeal

⚠

What to Watch For

Superhero violence with real stakes—Black Adam is described as 'murderous' and the fights are intense for ages under 10
It's a 2010 animated short, so the animation style may feel dated compared to modern superhero content kids are used to
Very action-focused with limited character development given the short format

Conversation Starters

"If you could say one magic word and transform into a superhero, what powers would you want?"
"Billy Batson is a foster kid who gets incredible powers—how do you think that would change his life?"
"Black Adam and Shazam have similar powers but use them differently. What makes someone a hero versus a villain?"
"Superman is super powerful but still needed help. Why is it important for heroes to work together?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic