Captain America: The Winter Soldier (Non-Spoiler Review)
Please be advised: The following two paragraphs of this review are mainly my thoughts on the wider Avengers Universe. If you are only interested in my thoughts on Captain America: The Winter Soldier; please skip these two paragraphs. However, seeing as this is a large cinematic universe which I haven't discussed at length before, I feel that these two first paragraphs are something I needed to write. Also, I apologise if I seem vague at points during the review, but this is done to avoid giving too much away.
I love Marvel Studios. Outside of Pixar (before the rocky period brought on by Cars 2), few other studios take both such care and such risks with their products. Take the casting of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark AKA Iron Man. This was a big risk taken right out of the gate. If Iron Man, the first Marvel Studios film, tanked at the box office, the whole Avengers Universe would have been thrown into turmoil. Luckily, Downey Jr. did three things. He owned the role of Tony Stark, he transformed Iron Man into one of the most popular superheroes around and he helped to make the first Iron Man a smash hit. Not that he was the only great thing about the film; I personally rank it among my favourite superhero films. Simply put, Iron Man sparked the creation of a cinematic universe which, while hitting some bumps in the road, took careful steps towards the first 'epic' super-hero team-up film The Avengers. The effort put into this Universe was rewarded with The Avengers becoming a resounding worldwide sensation, beloved by many (including yours truly). Marvel Studios announced that there will be three 'phases' of the Avengers Universe, each ending with a threat so big that the team had to group together to fend off destruction. One phase down, and all was looking well.
As we entered 'Phase 2' of the Avengers Universe, it became clear that the filmmakers weren't taking it easy. Iron Man 3 had Shane Black at the helm for his second directorial outing (after 2005's hugely underrated Kiss Kiss Bang Bang). Black, along with co-writer Drew Pearce, stirred up a great deal of controversy in the fan community based on certain plot points (which I wouldn't be discussing here). Personally, I loved the fact that both Black and Pearce weren't afraid to avoid the usual Marvel formula, and I thought that Iron Man 3 was a strong film overall in spite of some flaws. Thor: The Dark World, despite taking a risk by having first-time film director Alan Taylor (who had previously done work on HBO's Game of Thrones), felt decidedly more formulaic in structure (bad guy wants to destroy the world, good guy wants to stop him). However, thanks to clever and genuinely funny humour, some really inventive touches and solid performances (with one ace in the devilishly entertaining form of Tom Hiddleston's Loki), I still found Thor: The Dark World to be a great deal of fun. So, in the final step of 'Phase 2' before The Avengers: Age of Ultron, Captain America returns for Captain America: The Winter Soldier.
I really enjoyed Captain America: The First Avenger. I can understand why some people may not enjoy it, but its simple and joyful nostalgia appealed to me. Also, the character of Steve Rogers AKA Captain America is a admirable and strong character. I personally love the character; if these films had come out when I was a kid, Captain America would have been one great role model. Chris Evans proved both with his debut and with his return in The Avengers that he was ideal casting for the part, and Captain America: The Winter Soldier sees him at his most assured, likable and complex in the part. The film itself stands as one of the strongest films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, both adhering to the formula enough to please fans of the traditional Marvel structure while proving ambitious and daring enough to avoid being just another link in the chain to the next Avengers film.
After the events of The Avengers, Captain America has started working for S.H.I.E.L.D alongside Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson) under the command of Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson). However, the Captain has started to question his role in this new world where fear has arguably taken over freedom. His uncertainty is only further clouded by the arrival of The Winter Soldier, a cold and calculating assassin who appears and disappears like a ghost. With this new threat, the Captain must charge into battle with his trusty shield once more...
Captain America: The Winter Soldier is helmed by brothers Anthony and Joe Russo, making their first film since 2006's You, Me and Dupree. This shows Marvel taking another risk with who they choose to direct their latest film, and once again it pays off. The Russo brothers show an unexpected visceral flair in their crafting of the film's numerous action sequences. The majority of blows, crashes and gunfire have a realistic punch to them, which is impressive. Plus, the variety of action sequences is welcome; Captain America is nowhere to be seen during one of the film's most riveting set-pieces.
But the Russo brothers, along with screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, really show their prowess when the characters start talking. The dialogue is intelligent and fun to listen to as delivered by actors who really seem invested in what they are saying. Also, it shows how ambitious the directing and writing quartet are through their willingness to construct a Captain America film with political themes and a less-than-straightforward narrative. I can imagine a lot of little kids turning to their parents and asking questions about what just happened. Kudos to them for not playing it safe.
With a plot slightly more complicated than your usual superhero film, it's important to have characters you can care about in case you lose track of the plot. Luckily, the cast here is more than up to the task. As mentioned before, Evans is great in the role. While Captain America could be seen as a bit bland by some, I feel that Evans gives him great presence and authority. Plus, Evans plays the character's uncertainties beautifully. He also shares great chemistry with Scarlett Johansson. Obviously relishing her role here, Johansson is brilliant. While her character is sultry, Johansson isn't a traditional sex object. She injects her role with great force and wit which shows that Romanoff isn't to be messed with. Samuel L. Jackson is a steely presence in proceedings, bringing his usual cool grace whether arguing with the Cap, facing off against bad guys or talking with Robert Redford's Alexander Pierce. Speaking of Redford, the screen legend does impressive work here. Redford could just as easily shown up for a payday, but it is clear from his first appearance that he is tackling this role with conviction. It's yet another great reminder of the quality talent that superhero films can attract nowadays. Anthony Mackie is also great as Sam Wilson, proving to be likable, charming and genuinely funny. And, last but not least, the actor playing The Winter Soldier does a fantastic job. The Winter Soldier proves to be a great threat, and arguably the best villain of the Marvel Cinematic Universe outside of Loki. People have complained that he's not in the film enough, but I'd argue that he's in it just enough. Much like The Joker in The Dark Knight, he is a character who could have easily overshadowed proceeding if he were over-used. In the scenes when he isn't present, the menace and power of the character is still there, and is justified whenever he comes storming in to cause chaos. I also found the story of the character and how it was woven into the overall plot to be supremely satisfying.
As is to be expected of Marvel films, the technical aspects are superb (with one exception). The visual effects are incredible, especially in the climactic action sequence where they are really essential. There is a refreshing amount of stunt work also evident in the film, making the action sequences feel all the immediate and bruising. Also helping is the terrific sound work, with each clang and clash raising the stakes to more dangerous and deadly heights. Henry Jackman's score has distinct echoes of his work from X-Men: First Class, but still stands as its own thrilling musical accompaniment; the main themes for the characters of Captain America and The Winter Soldier are great examples of music building momentum and power, one with patriotism and strength and the other with a sinister malice. My one complaint on the film's technical value is the unnecessary 3D; it darkens and blurs the image and, outside of Cap's shield (which is never used in 3D fashion here unlike the first film), I see no reason why this film needed to be in 3D outside of more money for the studio. If you want my advice, see this in 2D. You're saving money and you'll probably have a better visual experience.
As with every film taking place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it's important to evaluate how inter-connected that film is with the rest of the Universe. Captain America: The Winter Soldier, while never becoming a sluggish advertisement for upcoming Marvel attractions (hello, Iron Man 2), links brilliantly to the Universe in wide-spanning and unexpected ways.
I've listened to other people's complaints regarding the film, and the most prominent seem to be related to the formulaic nature of the conclusion, the unbelievable nature of some plot points and the overt use of the 'shaky-cam'. I have to agree with people who say that the finale of the film is somewhat adhering to formula. However, I personally didn't mind this for three reasons. The first is that it's very coherently shot and edited, allowing the audience to enjoy what is happening onscreen. The second is that, unlike the final battle in The Avengers, we see casualties here, which ups the stakes significantly. The third and final reason is that we care about the individuals involved. The characters have been so well-developed up to this point that we're engaged with what happens to them. So, personally, I found the film's finale to be a very entertaining conclusion. On turning my attention to the second complaint, I did have an issue with one of the plot points in the film, but one person's theory on what it could be foreshadowing actually made me appreciate it a bit more. If that person is right, it's both a sinister hint of what's to come and another great way of Marvel providing continuity throughout this Universe, both of which I greatly appreciate. Finally, with regards to the shaky-cam, I did find it an issue, but only in one scene. Even with that said, it's nowhere near as bad as it could have been (check out the final fight scene from 2012's Alex Cross if you want an example of truly awful shaky-cam). I could still make out what was happening, so while it was an issue, it wasn't a major one for me and I didn't think that it was present long enough to damage the film as a whole.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier is a great, grand example of a superhero film. Not only does it serve as a thrilling adventure for the title character, it also proves to be a surprisingly thought-provoking film. It's by no means perfect, but there were few, if any flaws which left an unshakable impact on me. Plus, some of the flaws which could be found are arguably a result of the filmmakers being too ambitious, which is a truly laudable thing. The actors are terrific without exception, the characters are very engaging, the action sequences are stunning, the direction is fantastic, the script and story are constantly intriguing and the technical aspects are phenomenal. I think that, along with the original Iron Man, this is one of the strongest examples of a stand-alone Avenger film. It both brilliantly tells its own story and fearlessly makes changes to the MCU. I'm incredibly happy that the Russo brothers will be back to helm Captain America 3 and, as a fan of the MCU thus far, I can't wait to see what's in store next. Until then, I'd highly recommend Captain America: The Winter Soldier.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5. Stay tuned for my spoiler review, where I'll go into more detail on things I've vaguely discussed here.
P.S. As usual for Marvel, the film has scenes during the ending credits. The first, which plays mid-way through the credits, is the usual teaser scene. I loved this, and I can't wait to see how the subjects at play here are further explored. The second, which plays at the very end, isn't as important, but I still highly recommend that you watch it regardless. It's a wonderful little moment for the film to end on.
After the events of The Avengers, Captain America has started working for S.H.I.E.L.D alongside Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson) under the command of Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson). However, the Captain has started to question his role in this new world where fear has arguably taken over freedom. His uncertainty is only further clouded by the arrival of The Winter Soldier, a cold and calculating assassin who appears and disappears like a ghost. With this new threat, the Captain must charge into battle with his trusty shield once more...
Captain America: The Winter Soldier is helmed by brothers Anthony and Joe Russo, making their first film since 2006's You, Me and Dupree. This shows Marvel taking another risk with who they choose to direct their latest film, and once again it pays off. The Russo brothers show an unexpected visceral flair in their crafting of the film's numerous action sequences. The majority of blows, crashes and gunfire have a realistic punch to them, which is impressive. Plus, the variety of action sequences is welcome; Captain America is nowhere to be seen during one of the film's most riveting set-pieces.
But the Russo brothers, along with screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, really show their prowess when the characters start talking. The dialogue is intelligent and fun to listen to as delivered by actors who really seem invested in what they are saying. Also, it shows how ambitious the directing and writing quartet are through their willingness to construct a Captain America film with political themes and a less-than-straightforward narrative. I can imagine a lot of little kids turning to their parents and asking questions about what just happened. Kudos to them for not playing it safe.
With a plot slightly more complicated than your usual superhero film, it's important to have characters you can care about in case you lose track of the plot. Luckily, the cast here is more than up to the task. As mentioned before, Evans is great in the role. While Captain America could be seen as a bit bland by some, I feel that Evans gives him great presence and authority. Plus, Evans plays the character's uncertainties beautifully. He also shares great chemistry with Scarlett Johansson. Obviously relishing her role here, Johansson is brilliant. While her character is sultry, Johansson isn't a traditional sex object. She injects her role with great force and wit which shows that Romanoff isn't to be messed with. Samuel L. Jackson is a steely presence in proceedings, bringing his usual cool grace whether arguing with the Cap, facing off against bad guys or talking with Robert Redford's Alexander Pierce. Speaking of Redford, the screen legend does impressive work here. Redford could just as easily shown up for a payday, but it is clear from his first appearance that he is tackling this role with conviction. It's yet another great reminder of the quality talent that superhero films can attract nowadays. Anthony Mackie is also great as Sam Wilson, proving to be likable, charming and genuinely funny. And, last but not least, the actor playing The Winter Soldier does a fantastic job. The Winter Soldier proves to be a great threat, and arguably the best villain of the Marvel Cinematic Universe outside of Loki. People have complained that he's not in the film enough, but I'd argue that he's in it just enough. Much like The Joker in The Dark Knight, he is a character who could have easily overshadowed proceeding if he were over-used. In the scenes when he isn't present, the menace and power of the character is still there, and is justified whenever he comes storming in to cause chaos. I also found the story of the character and how it was woven into the overall plot to be supremely satisfying.
As is to be expected of Marvel films, the technical aspects are superb (with one exception). The visual effects are incredible, especially in the climactic action sequence where they are really essential. There is a refreshing amount of stunt work also evident in the film, making the action sequences feel all the immediate and bruising. Also helping is the terrific sound work, with each clang and clash raising the stakes to more dangerous and deadly heights. Henry Jackman's score has distinct echoes of his work from X-Men: First Class, but still stands as its own thrilling musical accompaniment; the main themes for the characters of Captain America and The Winter Soldier are great examples of music building momentum and power, one with patriotism and strength and the other with a sinister malice. My one complaint on the film's technical value is the unnecessary 3D; it darkens and blurs the image and, outside of Cap's shield (which is never used in 3D fashion here unlike the first film), I see no reason why this film needed to be in 3D outside of more money for the studio. If you want my advice, see this in 2D. You're saving money and you'll probably have a better visual experience.
As with every film taking place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it's important to evaluate how inter-connected that film is with the rest of the Universe. Captain America: The Winter Soldier, while never becoming a sluggish advertisement for upcoming Marvel attractions (hello, Iron Man 2), links brilliantly to the Universe in wide-spanning and unexpected ways.
I've listened to other people's complaints regarding the film, and the most prominent seem to be related to the formulaic nature of the conclusion, the unbelievable nature of some plot points and the overt use of the 'shaky-cam'. I have to agree with people who say that the finale of the film is somewhat adhering to formula. However, I personally didn't mind this for three reasons. The first is that it's very coherently shot and edited, allowing the audience to enjoy what is happening onscreen. The second is that, unlike the final battle in The Avengers, we see casualties here, which ups the stakes significantly. The third and final reason is that we care about the individuals involved. The characters have been so well-developed up to this point that we're engaged with what happens to them. So, personally, I found the film's finale to be a very entertaining conclusion. On turning my attention to the second complaint, I did have an issue with one of the plot points in the film, but one person's theory on what it could be foreshadowing actually made me appreciate it a bit more. If that person is right, it's both a sinister hint of what's to come and another great way of Marvel providing continuity throughout this Universe, both of which I greatly appreciate. Finally, with regards to the shaky-cam, I did find it an issue, but only in one scene. Even with that said, it's nowhere near as bad as it could have been (check out the final fight scene from 2012's Alex Cross if you want an example of truly awful shaky-cam). I could still make out what was happening, so while it was an issue, it wasn't a major one for me and I didn't think that it was present long enough to damage the film as a whole.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier is a great, grand example of a superhero film. Not only does it serve as a thrilling adventure for the title character, it also proves to be a surprisingly thought-provoking film. It's by no means perfect, but there were few, if any flaws which left an unshakable impact on me. Plus, some of the flaws which could be found are arguably a result of the filmmakers being too ambitious, which is a truly laudable thing. The actors are terrific without exception, the characters are very engaging, the action sequences are stunning, the direction is fantastic, the script and story are constantly intriguing and the technical aspects are phenomenal. I think that, along with the original Iron Man, this is one of the strongest examples of a stand-alone Avenger film. It both brilliantly tells its own story and fearlessly makes changes to the MCU. I'm incredibly happy that the Russo brothers will be back to helm Captain America 3 and, as a fan of the MCU thus far, I can't wait to see what's in store next. Until then, I'd highly recommend Captain America: The Winter Soldier.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5. Stay tuned for my spoiler review, where I'll go into more detail on things I've vaguely discussed here.
P.S. As usual for Marvel, the film has scenes during the ending credits. The first, which plays mid-way through the credits, is the usual teaser scene. I loved this, and I can't wait to see how the subjects at play here are further explored. The second, which plays at the very end, isn't as important, but I still highly recommend that you watch it regardless. It's a wonderful little moment for the film to end on.
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