Marvel continues to reign king of the superhero movies with the single most ambitious movie crossover of all time.
The Avengers and their allies must be willing to sacrifice all in an attempt to defeat the powerful Thanos before his blitz of devastation and ruin puts an end to the universe.
Tonally this film is the most unique in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. To begin it almost feels like three different movies, each with their unique feeling (in line with each set of characters). However, as we establish the imminent threat of Thanos (Josh Brolin) the individualistic cinematic tones fade and the movie become a more serious, bleaker affair. This isn’t to say there aren’t the one liners and clever jokes Marvel is known for, but overall the odds are considerably higher. Brolin’s Thanos is a highlight, he’s a well-written villain with a clear objective and a lot of power. He isn’t nearly as disposable as previous Avengers villains. His associates, the children of Thanos are a little more disposable, but still appropriately frightening. Alan Silvestri’s score is haunting and Trent Opaloch’s cinematography is magnificent (the bigger screen you can see this on the better). The CGI is usually excellent, but the HulkBuster armour worn by Mark Ruffalo’s Bruce Banner looks strangely out of place.
The Russo Brothers have directed this perfectly and it is a spectacle to behold. There’s a cast of more than 20 heroes, but stand out performances come in from Elizabeth Olsen, Tom Holland, Benedict Cumberbatch, Zoe Saldana and Robert Downey Jr. Not to say the rest of the cast aren’t excellent, but of course some stars shine brighter.
Overall what could’ve been a mess of movie turned out to be brilliant and this will no doubt storm the box office over the coming months.
4.5 Stars
Review by Benjamin Maio Mackay
Screening courtesy of Palace Nova Cinemas