Directors: Anthony and Joe Russo
Writers: Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely
Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Benedict Cumberbatch and Tom Holland
‘Enjoyable Entertainment’
Over the last few years, the superhero genre hasn’t fared so well. As of late, its films have begun to decline in quality. In a movie-market dominated by superhero films, audiences have started to feel ‘superhero fatigue’. With their colorful characters, exciting action and over-the-top villains, these films have appealed to comic-book fans. However, movie-goers seeking originality, or a sense of uniqueness have often left the theater disappointed.
That being said, there have been exceptions to this trend. Marvel is a studio that has proven to be successful and made films that invigorated the genre. With a winning combination of humor and action, their films have satisfied movie-goers around the world.
Marvel’s latest film “Avengers: Infinity War” is a thrilling addition to the superhero genre. Ambitious, exciting and emotionally resonant, the long-awaited sequel is everything that comic-book fans could have hoped for. Along with a talented team of artists, the Russo Brothers have crafted a satisfying superhero film. Packed with exhilarating action sequences, terrific performances and moments of genuine humor, the film works on many levels. Although it suffers from an overlong running time, the film is thoroughly entertaining. It leaves viewers exhausted but at the same time eager to see where the Marvel Cinematic Universe heads in the future.
Taking place after the events of “Captain America: Civil War”, “Avengers: Infinity War” pits the Avengers against their greatest threat yet. When a powerful villain known as Thanos threatens to destroy the universe, the fate of humanity is put in danger. With help from their allies, the Avengers must unite one last time in order to save the universe from mass destruction.
When I first saw the trailer for “Avengers: Infinity War”, I must admit that I was rather skeptical. How could you possibly pack so many superheroes into one cohesive movie? On paper, it sounds like something that shouldn’t work. However, the Russo Brothers have managed to pull off this monumental task. Blending action, humor and moments of emotion, the directors have crafted a satisfying superhero film. Despite the challenges that come with making a spectacle of this size, for the most part “Avengers: Infinity War” works. Its mainly due to the seamless blend of action and humor that the film achieves.
In terms of action, “Avengers: Infinity War” features the most exhilarating action sequences you will see in a movie this year. Marvel has always been known for its exciting action but rarely have the stakes been this high. This time, the stakes are raised to another level and our favorite heroes are in grave danger. This gives the action sequences emotional weight which is a rare quality. Not only is the action visually dazzling, but it keeps you emotionally invested in the lives of the characters. This is the darkest film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe thus far, featuring tense action sequences that keep you at the edge of your seat.
Despite its dark and somber tone, “Avengers: Infinity War” is filled with moments of humor that keep the viewer entertained. As with any Marvel movie, there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments throughout the film. The humor feels earned rather than forced, and springs from the interactions between the characters. One of the strengths of the film is the screenplay. Filled with sharp, witty and hilarious dialogue, it stages memorable interactions between characters. Although humor is a tricky thing to nail in superhero films, the film makes it work really well. It’s a joy to see our favorite superheroes interact on the big-screen.
These superheroes are brought to life by a talented cast of actors. In the year’s most star-studded ensemble, every actor gets the chance to shine and leave a lasting impression. However, perhaps the most memorable standout in the cast is Robert Downey Jr. As Tony Stark/Iron Man, the veteran actor delivers his finest performance to date. Charming, funny and sarcastic, he brings his usual charisma to the role. With intense expressions, he conveys the fear, hopelessness and despair that the avengers face in the film. It’s a marvelous performance that proves why Robert Downey Jr. is a perfect fit for the role. It’s hard to imagine anyone else playing this iconic character.
Not only does “Avengers: Infinity War” bring back beloved superheroes, but it also gives them a worthy foe to fight. Thanos is a frightening villain that is given an emotional backstory and proper motivations. While you may not agree with his plan to destroy the universe, you understand where he is coming from. Played brilliantly by Josh Brolin, Thanos is an interesting and complex villain. Although villains are often a weakness of Marvel’s movies, this time the studio has created a villain that is as worthy as the heroes.
However, as with any Marvel movie “Avengers: Infinity War” is not a film without flaws. At nearly three hours, the film suffers from an overlong running time. There are times when the film feels overstuffed and threatens to overwhelm the viewer with the sheer number of characters. Although the movie is thoroughly entertaining, it could have used an edit or two in the cutting room. Besides its bloated running time, another issue to consider is the film’s ambiguous ending. Without giving away spoilers, the film ends in a shocking way and leaves the viewer with many questions. It’s a controversial ending that certainly won’t please everyone.
Despite its flaws, “Avengers: Infinity War” is a thrilling superhero film that is worth seeing on the big-screen. Fans of the comic-book genre will definitely enjoy it, and so will movie-goers seeking fun popcorn entertainment. Although I’m not a fan of comic-book films, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this film.
As powerful as the Infinity stones treasured by the Avengers, it’s an awe-inspiring tribute towards an astonishing team of superheroes working together to rescue a world from villains posing catastrophic dangers.
4/5 stars
The Film Buff 
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