The 2022 film Black Adam, starring Dwayne Johnson, ends with a dramatic showdown and sets up future DCEU storylines. Black Adam defeats the villain Sabbac and embraces his role as Kahndaq’s protector.
Black Adam, directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, brings the antihero to life in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). The film has been in development for nearly two decades. It finally hit the big screen, offering fans a mix of action, drama, and future possibilities.
Plot Summary Leading to the Ending
Black Adam starts in ancient Kahndaq. Teth-Adam, played by Dwayne Johnson, gains powers from the Council of Wizards. He uses these powers for vengeance and gets imprisoned for 5,000 years. Fast forward to modern-day Kahndaq, now controlled by the criminal group Intergang. They seek the Crown of Sabbac, a powerful artifact.
Archaeologist Adrianna Tomaz, played by Sarah Shahi, awakens Teth-Adam while trying to protect the crown. Teth-Adam, now Black Adam, wreaks havoc on Intergang. His actions catch the attention of the Justice Society of America (JSA). The JSA includes Hawkman, Doctor Fate, Atom Smasher, and Cyclone. They aim to contain Black Adam.
The Climactic Battle
The climax revolves around the battle against Sabbac, a demonic villain. Sabbac wants to use the Crown of Sabbac to unleash hell on Earth. The JSA tries but fails to stop him. In a key moment, Doctor Fate sacrifices himself. He frees Black Adam from imprisonment and urges him to become a protector.
Black Adam returns to Kahndaq and fights Sabbac. In a brutal display of power, Black Adam rips Sabbac in half. This scene shows his willingness to use lethal force when needed. The battle is intense and highlights Black Adam’s immense strength (IGN).
Black Adam’s Transformation
By the film’s end, Black Adam undergoes a major change. Initially, he is reluctant to be a hero. But the people of Kahndaq and the JSA inspire him. He decides to use his powers for great. He destroys the throne of Kahndaq, rejecting tyranny. This act symbolizes his commitment to protect the city as its champion, not its ruler (TheWrap).
The Mid-Credits Scene
The mid-credits scene is a highlight. It sets the stage for future DCEU films. Amanda Waller, played by Viola Davis, contacts Black Adam. She warns him to stay within Kahndaq’s borders or face consequences. Black Adam dismisses her threat. Waller then reveals she has access to beings not of this planet. This leads to the dramatic entrance of Henry Cavill’s Superman. He emerges from the shadows to confront Black Adam (CinemaBlend).
Implications for the DCEU
The ending of Black Adam has several key implications for the DCEU:
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Introduction of the JSA: The film introduces the JSA, expanding the roster of heroes in the DCEU. This sets up potential spin-offs and team-up films (IGN).
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Black Adam’s Role as an Antihero: Black Adam’s journey from a vengeful antihero to a protector adds a complicated character to the DCEU. He operates in a moral gray area, setting him apart from traditional heroes (Looper).
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Superman’s Return: The mid-credits scene hints at a potential showdown between Black Adam and Superman. This also signals Henry Cavill’s return to the DCEU, which could lead to more appearances in future films (CinemaBlend).
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Amanda Waller’s Influence: Amanda Waller’s involvement indicates that Task Force X (the Suicide Squad) and other government-controlled superteams will continue to play a significant role in the DCEU. Her warning to Black Adam suggests she will be a key player in managing superpowered beings (Screen Rant).
Future Prospects
The ending of Black Adam leaves several questions unanswered and sets up many possibilities for future films:
- Black Adam vs. Superman: The confrontation teased in the mid-credits scene could be explored in a future film. This could lead to a major crossover event in the DCEU.
- Expansion of the JSA: With the introduction of the JSA, there is potential for standalone films or series focusing on individual members like Hawkman, Doctor Fate, Atom Smasher, and Cyclone.
- Black Adam’s Role in the DCEU: As a powerful antihero, Black Adam could become a central figure in the DCEU. He could interact with other heroes and villains in various capacities.
- Amanda Waller’s Plans: Waller’s warning to Black Adam and her access to extraterrestrial beings suggest she has broader plans that could impact the entire DCEU.
Conclusion
Black Adam ends on a high note, mixing resolution with hints at future developments. The film introduces a complicated antihero, expands the DCEU with the JSA, and sets the stage for potential future conflicts. The ending wraps up the immediate storyline but opens up many possibilities for the DCEU’s future.