This past summer marked the first summer of the “Superhero,” and with seven comic book/superhero films that hit last year each one needs to deliver something new and refreshing to separate it from the rest. Captain America , directed by Joe Johnston, delivers something new to the comic-to-film medium and at times thrives. However, the film is ambitious and tries to tackle an essential era in American history in less than two hours. Starring Chris Evans (as Captain America), Hayley Atwell (as Peggy Carter) and Sebastian Stan (as James Buchanan ‘Bucky’ Barnes) the film has a very capable cast, and with Tommy Lee Jones (as Colonel Chester Phillips) and Hugo Weaving (as the Red Skull) the film brings humor and weight.
Captain America is set within 1940 America and has a nostalgic feel of the “ American Way ” and “Doing Your Part.” Captain America ’s origin was created during the WWII American era and was a direct response to that same motto of “Doing Your Part.” His modern retelling of his WWII origin is epic and is spread out through several comic book issues. So, I really enjoyed the faith the producers and writers had with the source material, and at times this movie was great.
Captain America : The First Avenger is a movie that is difficult for me to review. On one hand it’s an enjoyable fun film that delivers action and nostalgia; on the other hand, I’m an Ed Brubaker fan. Ed Brubaker has been writing Captain America for the past 5 years and has delivered a Steve Rogers that is not just one dimensional, but has struggles and doubts. Also, Brubaker’s book has a more espionage/spy theme throughout his run that separates it from anything else out on the shelves. So, I’m conflicted. As much as I enjoyed seeing “Cap” battling Hydra and the Red Skull, I can’t help but think I’ve seen this before, through flashbacks and references from Brubaker’s run, and done with more depth, conflict, and heart. The film tried to take on Steve’s Captain America origin, his meaning to a country in turmoil during WWII, and a first encounter with his arch enemy; however, it seemed rush and packed and did not deliver on the same scale that I’m used to with Brubaker. Thor was excellent, I think, because of how simple the overall arc of the story was. I’m not saying this was a bad movie from Marvel, but I am saying the source material is superior.
Rating: (7.5/10)