Welcome to episode 157 of Are You Just Watching? where Eve and I dive into DC’s Blue Beetle. This one caught my attention, not just for its superhero antics but for how it centers on family and the responsibility of power. As I reflected on this movie, I was reminded of the truth: becoming a superhero isn’t about having power but how you use the power you’re given. I didn’t catch it in theaters, but when it hit Max, Eve twisted my arm, and I’m glad she did. With its funky techno-Latino score by Bobby Krlic and a lighter tone compared to most DC movies, it felt like a refreshing take. Let’s jump into what makes Jaime Reyes’ story so unique!
Right out of the gate, Blue Beetle surprised both of us. It was a welcome departure from DC’s usual dark and gritty tone, bringing in humor, heart, and a deeply-rooted theme of family. Eve even mentioned that this might be her favorite DC movie, thanks to its balance of comedy and genuine warmth. And I couldn’t agree more. Most superhero films focus on lone wolves tackling their demons, but here, family is front and center. It’s a refreshing change in a genre that often sidelines community.
One standout feature for me was the movie’s bilingual flair. Jaime’s family seamlessly switches between English and Spanish, adding an authentic cultural layer. Sure, I wish my Spanish was better—I could’ve skipped Googling words like corazón (pigheaded) and flaco (skinny). But even with my limited understanding, it was clear how much thought went into the dialogue. That authenticity was a huge win.
From a content perspective, the movie earns its PG-13 rating with some noticeable language. Eve called out how it stood out more than usual. While not exactly family-friendly, it’s far from the worst we’ve seen in superhero cinema.
I also need to highlight Xolo Maridueña’s performance as Jaime Reyes. Having followed his work in Cobra Kai, I was curious to see how he’d fare in a blockbuster role. He didn’t disappoint. Xolo brought sincerity and depth to Jaime’s journey, making him relatable as both a superhero and a young man navigating life’s challenges. It’s that sincerity that anchored the humor and the campy elements, giving the film a genuine heart.
On the flip side, the social commentary—particularly around immigration—was laid on pretty thick. I get it, but sometimes it felt like being hit repeatedly with a pool noodle. That said, the movie’s willingness to mix self-aware humor with deeper issues created a unique vibe, even if it wrestled with an identity crisis along the way.
All in all, Blue Beetle delivered an enjoyable, thought-provoking experience. It’s one of those rare superhero movies that leaves you with both laughs and something to chew on. Let’s dive into the themes that made it stand out!
It Takes a Family
What really stood out in Blue Beetle was how it flipped the typical superhero narrative on its head. Jaime doesn’t operate as a lone hero; instead, his family plays an active, essential role in his journey. They’re not just there for emotional support—they’re directly involved in his victories and challenges. This isn’t a story of one person’s strength; it’s a celebration of being “stronger together.”
That theme reminded us of how the Bible describes the body of Christ:
“And he himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God’s Son, growing into maturity with a stature measured by Christ’s fullness. Then we will no longer be little children, tossed by the waves and blown around by every wind of teaching, by human cunning with cleverness in the techniques of deceit. But speaking the truth in love, let us grow in every way into him who is the head—Christ. From him the whole body, fitted and knit together by every supporting ligament, promotes the growth of the body for building itself up in love by the proper working of each individual part.” (Ephesians 4:11–16)
This movie is a refreshing portrayal of the importance of unity, loyalty, and the strength that comes from being part of a close-knit community. Jaime’s family doesn’t just follow him—they fight alongside him, showing how vital every role is in achieving victory.
Facing Hardship with Optimism
Jaime’s father, Alberto, is a cornerstone of the story, embodying wisdom, calm, and optimism even in the face of adversity. Throughout the movie, Alberto continually seeks the positive, refusing to let hardship define him or his family. His outlook reminded me of James 1:3–4, which says,
“Consider it great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.” (James 1:3–4)
Another passage that came to mind was Romans 5:3–5:
“Not only that, but we also boast in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance, endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope. This hope will not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” (Romans 5:3–5)
Alberto’s unshakable faith and calm demeanor hold his family together, even after his death. His wisdom and leadership reflect the qualities of a shepherd or elder, as outlined in 1 Timothy 3:2–4:
“An overseer, therefore, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, self-controlled, sensible, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not an excessive drinker, not a bully but gentle, not quarrelsome, not greedy. He must manage his own household competently and have his children under control with all dignity.” (1 Timothy 3:2–4)
One of the most touching moments comes when Alberto talks to Jaime about purpose. He says, “We’re on a journey, Jaime. This house, the nopales, the auto shop—they’re just a stop on the journey. But this isn’t the destination.” It’s a profound reminder that life’s challenges are temporary, and what truly matters is how we face them and to rely not on our strength, but the strength of God; a strength that he frequently shows through others.
Even after Alberto’s passing, his influence continues to guide Jaime and the rest of the family, reminding us that a legacy of faith and optimism can inspire and strengthen others long after we’re gone. It’s a beautiful depiction of resilience and hope, grounded in a spiritual foundation that resonates deeply.
From Pain Through Power to Compassion
In Blue Beetle, the idea of turning pain into power is a recurring theme, one that resonates with many comic book narratives. But this movie does more than glorify the idea of using pain as a motivator; it takes a thoughtful turn toward compassion. Jaime’s family repeatedly emphasizes the idea of finding strength in adversity. Jaime’s mother gives a pep talk about transforming trials into empowerment, and his grandmother rallies the family to take action after Alberto’s death.
The Bible teaches us, however, to approach pain differently. Instead of using pain to fuel anger or vengeance, we are called to let go of bitterness and embrace kindness and forgiveness.
“Let all bitterness, anger and wrath, shouting and slander be removed from you, along with all malice. And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.” (Ephesians 4:31–32)
At the movie’s climax, Jaime is faced with a moment of intense anger and grief. Believing he has lost both his father and his uncle, Jaime confronts Carapax, the OMAC operator who played a key role in his father’s death. Overcome with rage, Jaime is ready to kill. But Kaji, the symbiotic scarab, intervenes. By sharing Carapax’s tragic past—his childhood as a victim of war and exploitation—Kaji opens Jaime’s eyes to the humanity of his adversary.
This moment reminded me of Galatians 6:2:
“Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
By recognizing Carapax’s pain and choosing mercy, Jaime fulfills a higher purpose than revenge. This is further echoed in Matthew 22:39:
“The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39)
Jaime’s decision to spare Carapax illustrates the transformative power of compassion. It’s a reminder that true strength lies not in asserting dominance but in showing empathy and understanding, even to those we perceive as enemies. The movie beautifully illustrates this Christian principle of responding to pain with love and grace, making it a powerful takeaway for audiences.
Ultimately, Blue Beetle challenges the typical “pain fuels power” trope by showing that the ultimate goal of pain is growth and connection. Through this lens, the film offers a deeply spiritual message: that our struggles are not meant to harden us but to teach us empathy and lead us closer to one another—and to God.
Conclusion
As we wrap up, I think it’s safe to say that Blue Beetle stands out as a superhero movie with heart, humor, and depth. Its emphasis on family, compassion, and purpose gives it layers that go beyond the usual action-packed formula. Jaime’s journey isn’t just about becoming a hero—it’s about learning to trust his family, overcome hardship, and extend empathy even to his enemies. Those themes echo the teachings of Scripture, reminding us of the importance of unity, perseverance, and love.
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