Another strong offering from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Marvel’s CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR finds Steve Rogers leading the newly formed team of Avengers in their continued efforts to safeguard humanity. But after another incident involving the Avengers results in collateral damage, political pressure mounts to install a system of accountability, headed by a governing body to oversee and direct the team. The new status quo fractures the Avengers, resulting in two camps—one led by Steve Rogers and his desire for the Avengers to remain free to defend humanity without government interference, and the other following Tony Stark’s surprising decision to support government oversight and accountability.
Firstly I just want to say that I had to see it twice to draw any solid critical conclusions, as the first time I was just too captivated in the story! That already sets a good precedent for the film.
As usual the special effects were outstanding and don’t really bare mentioning. However, I noticed in some of the early fight sequences that the camera was moving too fast - making it difficult to follow the action. I understand this was a style of cinematography, but it didn’t help to make the plot clear. Another complaint on the post-production side of things is that whenever the film changed location gigantic letters filled the screening naming our next location. The names were so large it seemed comical.
The script was strong, the Russo Brothers are clever and they bring their ingenuity to this new film. I didn’t, however like it more than Captain America: The Winter Soldier, but it was far superior to the Avengers films. The action, humour and plot were all handled well. The emotional scenes were not quite executed as well as they could’ve been - what was most surprising was a kiss between Agent 13 and Captain America, which had no build up at all. Black Panther’s reaction after his father dies was another stand-out moment where the emotional dialogue could’ve been better written. Overall, though for a mainstream movie in this genre it really was excellent.
The performances of Robert Downey Jr. and Chris Evans were fantastic, they both know their roles so well that there’s very little they can do to improve. Scarlett Johnansson’s Black Widow is still deserving of her own movie and her performance is once again strong. Sebastian Stan is great as the Winter Solider, but when his mind-control is lapsed his performance as Bucky isn’t up to par with the other actors. Anthony Mackie and Don Cheadle are both excellent, rounding out the main cast nicely.
Being, unofficially Avengers 2.5 we also see Jeremy Renner’s Hawkeye and his performance is less convincing each time we see his character. New hero, Black Panther played by Chadwick Boseman who is superb and I can’t wait for his solo film. Paul Bettany returns as Vision and is excellent, his dialogue is some of the best in the film. Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlett Witch also returns and while I enjoy her performance her wavering accent is still an issue for me. Ant-Man is the most surprising hero to see on screen, but Paul Rudd’s performance is exceptionally, his comedic timing perfect. I can’t wait to see Ant-Man in the Avengers again down the line.
That brings us to our new Spider-Man, Tom Holland. Perhaps the most anticipated part of the film…and he is excellent. Holland’s performance is one of the best in the film and also the greatest onscreen Spider-Man. I can’t wait to see his Peter Parker grow in the MCU over the next few years. There are also many other, pivotal characters, but the cast list is too big to discuss them all.
Overall, yes this a great super-hero film. No it isn’t going to win any Oscars, but it is one of the best super-hero films ever. I’ve already seen it twice, it’s enjoyable, clever and funny - the best traits of a Marvel film. This one is one that really can’t be missed!
4 Stars
Review by Benjamin Maio Mackay
Screening 1 courtesy of Walt Disney Entertainment
Screening 2 courtesy of Palace Nova Cinemas
Friday, 29 April 2016
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