Thursday, April 3, 2014

LA Movie Review- Captain America: The Winter Soldier

   When Captain America discovers that the line between freedom and fear is becoming more blurred than ever, he'll become a fugitive as he takes on corruption while battling his ever-haunting past.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier is the newest film to be a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It is however unlike any of the previous films that exist within that universe. This film doesn't fit into the superhero genre. It transcends it. Captain America II is an action filled political thriller that takes you on an incredible journey.
   Directors Anthony and Joe Russo's film is a game changer for the Marvel cinematic universe. They directed a film which contains the fun of previous Marvel movies while managing to take itself more seriously than any of the other Marvel movies. The brothers Russo seemed like an odd choice to direct this film as they have primarily directed sitcoms such  as Community and Arrested Development. They did a tremendous job with this film. They did a great job of building up tension in scenes that demanded it. There were plenty of moments where I believed characters would die. They took me right into their world and made me believe anything could happen in it. The action sequences were the strongest element of the movie. They were shockingly good. I don't mean in a way suggesting that I assumed they would be bad. I was shocked by how much they raised the bar with their action scenes as they are absolutely incredible. Every punch, kick, and throwing of a shield is hard hitting. The film has some truly intense moments during these scenes which make them all the more better. The tone set by the brothers is fun and exciting. The screenplay they directed ensured that their Marvel film would stick out from the others.
   Christopher Markus Stephen Mcfeely wrote the screenplay based on themes of trust and betrayal. They clearly have something to say about today's world and they say it through this film. Aside from their clear message on freedom, they also did a good job handling the characters. There are some scenes that don't work as well as you want them to. They don't hurt the film in a major way, but they still do hurt it. Aside from a few hiccups they do an exceptional job. They along with the brothers Russo did a great job of making this film feel like a political espionage type thriller.
   Chris Evans was great as Steve Rogers/Captain America. Evans has the unique role of playing a patriot from the past in today's world. You sense that freedom runs through this man's veins. Scarlett Johansson is given much more to due with her character in this film. She has a larger role than previous films an with it she is  funny, fierce, and a friend to Cap. She is quite good in the role of Black Widow, who is an ever growing character. Samuel L. Jackson's Nick Fury is also expanded upon in the film. He has trust issues like Bruce Banner has anger issues. There are also several new additions to the cast. Alexander Pierce is a new character in the film. He's a powerful and cunning individual played by the legendary Robert Redford. Anthony Mackie is a fun addition to the cast as Falcon, Captain America's partner. Sebastian Stan plays the mysterious Winter Soldier. He was a villain done right. He has great screen presence. He was a deadly character who was a legitimate threat to favorite shield carrying hero.
   The first superhero film of the year has set a high bar for those who follow it. This film has a relevant message and a layered plot with unparalleled action. This sequel raises the stakes to an unexpected level and is a guaranteed great time at the movies. The Russo brothers have delivered a film that in my opinion is as good as The Avengers. 
4.8/5

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