Saturday, April 05, 2014

Captain America: The Winter Soldier

     Credit screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely for a terrific script that turns a superhero movie into a political spy thriller. Grounded in reality, albeit a Marvel reality, the film works on all levels and is extremely entertaining.

      Chris Evans returns as Captain America along with Scarlett  Johansson as the Black Widow (Natasha Romanov) and Samuel Jackson as Nick Fury. All three have become very comfortable in their roles and are well suited to their comic book characters. Another Marvel superhero makes it to the big screen as Anthony Mackie co-stars as The Falcon (Sam Wilson) with upgraded wings. Sebastian Stan plays the title character, The Winter Soldier and he is a formidable opponent for "Cap". A big surprise is the addition of Robert Redford, playing against type as Alexander Pierce. Mr. Redford is the last person you would expect to see in a Marvel film but he seems to be enjoying himself immensely.

        There are secrets, plots and double agents galore when S.H.I.E.L.D is compromised and of course it's up to Captain America to save the day. Co-directors Anthony and Joe Russo balance the intrigue with many exciting action sequences culminating in an explosive finale. There are in-jokes for the devoted comic fans and of course, stay through the credits for a double surprise.

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