To sum it up in as few words as possible, Avengers: Infinity War is The Empire Strikes Back of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
If people remember, The Empire Strikes Back let the bad guys win, had the most complex and darkest narrative of the original Star Wars trilogy, and relegated the heroes to their own plotlines and arcs. Avengers: Infinity War is, in essence, very much like that film. But it also differs from it in a key way—it will be appreciated in the present as well as in the years to come.
Episode V of Star Wars wasn’t held in very high regard when it was released. In fact, many original fans of Episode IV and the critics gave it a negative reception upon its initial release. It wasn’t until years down the line that the film was viewed as the best of the overall series—with critics later describing it as deeply thought-provoking with high emotions and strong characterizations.
Avengers: Infinity War is everything audiences have come to expect from a Marvel Studios production—and more. After ten years, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has earned every theater applause, laughter, and tear. The characters on screen are old friends who are taking us on their biggest and most important mission yet: saving the universe and reality itself.
In writing this review, I promised myself I would not reveal any spoilers—and it’s proven to be extremely difficult (my backspace and delete buttons are now well-worn in my attempts to keep that vow). The Russo Brothers (the directing duo behind the film) have gone on record asking critics and reviewers to not reveal any surprises. After seeing this extravaganza, it’s no surprise as to why they made such a request.
“Expect the unexpected.” That’s the takeaway for this film. Just when you thought you knew the overarching narrative, the script throws a curve ball—ahem, make that multiple curve balls … that will elicit some misty eyes and gasps. But as I said before, the reactions from audiences will be earned. No cheap tricks here.
The film is epic-level storytelling, taking viewers on a journey through space, exotic planets, and various earthbound locations. The balancing act of countless characters is no small feat, as all of them are well-developed, with Thanos being a very compelling supervillain.
In the past, the standout blemish for many of the MCU’s films has been the antagonist. Aside from Loki, most have been underwhelming, which, in turn, affected their respective protagonists—because we all know a great villain makes a great hero. But Thanos is a different breed. The Mad Titan’s threat factor doesn’t come from a diatribe of evil thoughts and hatred. His dangerous nature is rooted in an egotistical self-perceived air of benevolence.
Yes, Thanos thinks he’s doing the universe a favor. Well, the word “mad” is in his nickname. And before anyone chimes in on Thanos’s real reasons, I will say I’m familiar with the original comic book storyline—where his ultimate goal was to impress and court Mistress Death. However, this is the film universe, so Thanos’s true motives may be quite different from his literary counterpart.
As for the heroes, they are still at the top of their game—especially the main players. Ten years playing the same characters would cause most actors to phone it in. But the original Avengers (Robert Downey, Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, and Mark Ruffalo) are still as fresh as Thor’s newly minted Stormbreaker. Don’t get me wrong. The characters have definitely evolved. However, in Thor’s lexcion, “They are nauther tired nor weary.”
And speaking of Thor, this is a character who had one of the weakest series of initial solo films. His evolution and eventual rise to power in Avengers: Infinity War will bring chills to any fan. It’s truly one of the greatest scenes out of any superhero film to-date. As a DC fan and lifelong Superman zealot, I will go further and blaspheme the Kryptonian’s good name by saying the God of Thunder’s heroic reentry gives the Man of Steel a run for his money.
More Movies: Avengers: Infinity War Official Character Posters
Avengers: Infinity War runs at a meaty two hours and thirty minutes. But the eye-popping set pieces and breakneck pace make this a much too short ride of escapism. With those sentiments in mind, I’m seeing it a second time … and maybe even a third … before it’s available for purchase—at which time I will watch it until our universe and reality come an end.
Avengers: Infinity War was released on April 27, 2018
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