Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Starring: Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan, Samuel L. Jackson, Anthony Mackie, Robert Redford, Cobie Smulders, Frank Grillo, Maximiliano Hernandez, Toby Jones, Hayley Atwell, Emily VanCamp
Directed by: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
2014

Times Seen:
Tim: 3

Summary: Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) struggles with adjusting to the new world he finds himself in while also confronting a new enemy- The Winter Soldier.

Review:

Tim: The Captain America franchise is a fascinating one because the films in it are so unique in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The First Avenger was a World War II Superhero movie. The first sequel, The Winter Soldier is a throwback to the '70s political thrillers. I find that amazing, the breadth of genres that this one franchise is covering. What makes this movie so outstanding is not just that they managed to pull it off, but that it's an exceptional movie in its own right. This film is undoubtedly one of the best movies of 2014 and if I may, a marvel to behold.

This is the 9th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and it's shocking how fresh and exciting it is. There's not even a hint of staleness creeping in. This movie is exceptionally made and it's thoroughly enjoyable. The movie manages to pay homage to the '70s political thrillers while telling a very modern story that resonates with much deeper meaning- this is really a movie about government control, about individual rights. That's a very contemporary concern, and it was wonderfully explored in this piece of entertainment. That focus helped differentiate this movie and elevate it above many of the other MCU movies.

One thing that I loved about this movie is how it further explored the role of SHIELD in the United States and around the world. SHIELD is the big shadowy government organization who we believe has the greater good at heart. As the movie progresses and we uncover more and more of the truth, it's a stunning revelation and one that has major reverberations throughout the entire MCU. So many franchises are built by playing it safe- by giving us more and more of the same, of sticking to the exact same formula time and time again. While Marvel can be accused of that to an extent, I would point to The Winter Soldier as Exhibit A in their defense- this movie upturns much of what we thought we knew. I loved the courage it took to pull something like this off, especially since it would also alter their budding TV series, "Agents of SHIELD".

I have to give the cast great credit. I still remember when Chris Evans was first announced as Captain America. I was excited but I also wondered, "Can the Human Torch really play Steve Rogers?" Now, I can't imagine anyone else ever playing him. Evans has perfectly embodied this role and made it his own. He's incredible in this film. His third time playing Rogers is without question the best. I liked the addition of Scarlett Johansson and giving her more screen time. We get to know Black Widow better in this film, and the movie is better for it. Samuel L. Jackson gets a little more screen time as well. I loved the addition of Anthony Mackie to the cast- he's incredible as Falcon and I hope he gets many more scenes in future films. He's an excellent addition to the MCU and he's a fan favorite now. Robert Redford was truly inspired casting and I loved his role in this film. You also have Cobie Smulders, Emily VanCamp, Frank Grillo- the cast of this film is truly impressive.

The movie boasts some incredible action sequences. The early scene rescuing the hostages is a memorable one. You have the Nick Fury car chase and some gritty, realistic fighting on the streets. I loved that a lot of this movie felt like an action thriller, not a superhero movie. The big climactic scenes with the Helicarriers are pretty impressive as well. The movie features the perfect mix of big action sequences and more character-driven dramatic moments. The Russo Brothers surprised everyone by delivering a truly exceptional movie.

Yes, I'm a huge Marvel fan. While that influences my thoughts about their movies, I have no problems criticizing when it's due. Captain America: The Winter Soldier however, is definitely better than the already-great usual Marvel delivers. I loved this movie and what it meant for the larger MCU. At some point, Marvel may disappoint us, but it's certainly not with this movie- it's among the best they have done.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 8.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Captain America: The First Avenger. The Avengers, Thor, Iron Man, Iron Man 2, The Incredible Hulk, Thor: The Dark World