Eight years ago today, Zack Snyder’s “Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice” hit the silver screens, marking the beginning of a new era in superhero cinema. However, the film wasn’t just about the clash between two iconic superheroes; it also introduced audiences to Gal Gadot’s portrayal of Wonder Woman, a character deeply embedded in comic book lore and beloved by fans worldwide.
Yet, Gadot’s journey to becoming Wonder Woman was not without its challenges, especially in the lead-up to the film’s release in 2016. Cast announcements often ignite fervent debates among fans, but Gadot’s casting sparked a particularly intense controversy, largely centered around her physical appearance.
In 2013, when Gadot was revealed as the chosen actress to embody the iconic Amazonian warrior, she faced a barrage of criticism and skepticism from fans, with one of the main points of contention being her physique. The internet was abuzz with discussions about whether Gadot possessed the physical attributes deemed necessary to do justice to the character, particularly in terms of her bust size.
During an interview with an Israeli journalist, Gadot addressed these concerns head-on, showcasing her trademark grace and poise. When asked about the criticism regarding her slender frame and breast size not aligning with the traditional depiction of Wonder Woman, Gadot responded with a blend of wit and wisdom that would come to define her portrayal of the character.
The journalist asked: “It’s been said that you’re too skinny for the part. Wonder Woman is large-breasted, is that going to change? “
“Hmm,” Gadot pondered, before launching into a thoughtful rebuttal. “I represent the Wonder Woman of the new world. Breasts… anyone can buy for 9000 shekels and everything is fine. By the way, Wonder Woman is Amazonian, and historically accurate Amazonian women actually had only one breast. So, if I’d really go ‘by the book’, it’d be problematic.”
Gadot’s response was both enlightening and empowering, challenging the narrow standards of beauty imposed on women in the entertainment industry. By embracing the essence of Wonder Woman as a symbol of strength, courage, and resilience, Gadot shattered stereotypes and redefined what it means to be a superhero on screen.
As “Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice” made its way to theaters, Gadot’s performance as Wonder Woman captivated audiences around the globe, earning her widespread acclaim and cementing her status as an integral part of the DC Extended Universe. Her portrayal not only did justice to the character’s rich legacy but also paved the way for the standalone “Wonder Woman” films that followed, further solidifying her place in cinematic history.
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Shobith C