What would happen if one of the most famous and well known superhero origin stories turned out to be something twisted and horrific instead? That's exactly the question "Brightburn" answers - an eerie and evil interpretation of the Superman archetype during his young formative years where a child from another world is raised and adopted by loving parents who live in a rural farm setting. However instead of becoming a hero to the world, what if this boy with amazing abilities becomes something more sinister?
Thanks to director David Yarovesky and producers James Gunn and Kenneth Huang, we are treated to a vicious and perverted Superboy story that shows a kid willing to do whatever he wants and has the power to shape the world. Starring Elizabeth Banks and David Denman as a mother and father who think their alien son is a blessing - this rollercoaster superhero horror story will no doubt bring the comic book and Superman fans out there together to watch this "Elseworlds" tale where "absolute power corrupts absolutely" and a young boy's rage is left unchecked.
I got to see Brightburn a few days before it opened in theaters thanks to the folks at Columbia Pictures Philippines, and let me tell you that I walked into this with a fresh mind despite the similarities and obvious nods the film gives to Superman (and I wore a shirt too!). This is a movie that explores the flipside of that life where a "Strange Visitor from another planet" doesn't turn out as a kid with a moral compass to guide him in using his powers. Young actor Jackson A. Dunn embodies that very well in playing 12 year old Brandon Bryer - who is seemingly a young and quiet everyday boy who goes to school and excels in class, yet somewhere in the inside festers a growing curiosity that soon turns into a path of disaster and destruction. Upon discovering his alien powers and heritage, Brandon develops into a frightening, disrespectful, and disobedient kid who starts scaring his classmates and those close to him. Even with the love and support his family especially his mother gives him - it's not enough to turn him away from the dark path that this film already knows you're prepared to witness.
There's a reason why we enjoy superhero movies - we get to see the good guys become symbols of hope, freedom, and save the day for everyone who needs help. However "Brightburn" is a stern reminder that there is always a flipside to that, and a supervillain's origin story can be just as impactful and shaped by the events they experience in their own respective lives. While the theme is familiar, the circumstances and scenario are not. It's definitely worth the watch.
Rating - 4/5
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