Written and Media by Tyler Lamb.
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Captain America: The Winter Soldier follows none other than Captain America(Chris Evans) as he finds out who he really needs to trust. Is S.H.I.E.L.D. who they say they are? Are they really protecting people, or putting them in fear? Can Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) be trusted? Can anyone be trusted? Who and what is the Winter Soldier? These are just a few of the questions raised during this political thrillers runtime, and boy is it one heck of a ride.
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If there is one thing Marvel seems to know, it is the character of Captain America. His first outing on the silver screen, The First Avenger, was one of the better movies of Marvels phase 1. With the sequel, it seems they decided to set out to create the best movie for the entire universe. Directing brothers Anthony and Joe Russo really raised the bar exponentially with this movie. Everything that seemed off about some of the past outings (i.e. Thor 2, Iron Man 2&3) seemed to work great here. Things like corny scenes or lines fit better with these characters and context, and along with the jokes aren’t heavy handed. Both these things, which are really defining characteristics of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, rightfully take a back seat to the main story. Nods to the universe built by Marvel, and some that are being built, are treated naturally as well and don’t seem like they are just having to follow some type of guideline or checklist. Also, character banter is delivered believably and doesn’t seemed forced. Most importantly the character of Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson) does not feel like a last minute addition for some sex appeal. She feels like a true character that belongs in the action, and same goes with the new addition to the team, Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie).
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What makes all these things better, is the plot of the movie and how it’s delivered. We are given a constantly unwinding political thriller/action movie that is beautifully showcased. Action scenes don’t seem drawn out or happening too often, and the fight scenes in them are amazingly choreographed. My mouth was left gaping after one specific fight between the two title characters. However, this is also one of the more violent outings, and I was really surprised at what the big wigs at Marvel Studios allowed the brothers to get away with, making it a bit darker of a film at times. The pacing of the movie is also great. Not once during the 2 hour and 16 minute runtime did I wonder when the movie was going to end. And make sure, like always, you stay for the very end of the credits on this one. There are 2 scenes after the movie ends, one mid credits and one after all the credits, and both actually matter to the overall universe.
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As far as 3D goes, this is the one department the film lacked in. As usual, it added some depth to scenes at times, but overall didn’t do much for the movie as a whole. If you are debating between whether or not to check it out in 3D, I would say go ahead and pass and save the few bucks for a regular ticket.
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It is refreshing to see Marvel Studios can still do right, considering lately it’s hard to believe they remembered how. Chris Evans does a fantastic job in the role of Steve Rodgers, even if he has already gotten a bit tired of it. Captain America: The Winter Soldier turned out to not only be arguably the best Marvel movie(we can’t forget Howard!), but it will also be easily placed in the ranks as one of the best action movie sequels ever.
4/4
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Get it!?!? STARS!!! HA!
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Directed: Anthony and Joe Russo
Starring: Chris Evans, Samuel L. Jackson, Scarlett Johansson, Robert Redford
Runtime: 136min
