Wonder Woman 1984: 5 things we loved most about the sequel
By Shaun Stacy
Kristen Wiig’s Cheetah
Wiig does a marvelous job in the role of Barbara Minerva, a sheepish, nerdy woman who yearns to be a “better” version of herself. When Barbara and Diana cross paths at work, Barbara extends an offer of friendship that Diana is hesitant to accept at first. Diana eventually concedes though, seeing a lot of herself in her new friend.
The two work together on discovering the mysterious origins of a crystal the Smithsonian has recently gained possession of. Eventually, we find out that the crystal, known as the Dreamstone, has the ability to grant people wishes, but with a price.
The chemistry between Gadot and Wiig is undeniable as they shift from co-workers, to friends, and then to mortal enemies following Barbara’s wish to be more like Diana. This wish accidentally gives Barbara the same abilities as Diana, though it takes a while before she understands what exactly is happening to her.
The evolution of Barbara Minerva is handled nicely, as she is slowly seduced by evil in the form of the manipulative Maxwell Lord. Hopefully this role cleared up any doubts about Wiig being a serious actress. She proved more than capable of giving a layered performance.