AVENGERS: ENDGAME is Marvel’s Emotional Pinnacle

Led by producer Kevin Feige (who needs to be considered for the Thalberg Award), directors Joe and Anthony Russo, and writers Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, Avengers: Endgame, is an epic, emotional adventure and direct followup to Avengers: Infinity War that ties major storylines from 21 previous films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. 

 

Following the cataclysmic events triggered by Thanos (Josh Brolin) and six Infinity Stones which decimate humanity, the surviving Avengers including Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.) and Captain America (Chris Evans) are coping with grief and post-trauma as they try to find a way to reverse the tragic events and bring back loved ones against unbelievable odds and unplanned obstacles.

The structure of the film places our heroes in situations that reshuffle past narratives across the universe and the passage of time. To say anymore would risk spoiling the experience of an intricately plotted and realized story. (Think Lord of the Rings and Back to the Future films.)  Just when you think you know where the plot is going and who will survive, there are surprises and new threats. The film focuses on the importance of family and sacrifice, a recurring theme, and amid bleak circumstances, there are moments of humor and compassion. 

Despite a deliberately slower paced beginning and a couple of unresolved subplots and characters, it’s an ambitious, three hour extravaganza with an incredible, grand finale that brings closure (and tears of joy and sadness) for several story arcs involving dozens of beloved characters that will reward and resonate with fans who have seen some or all of the earlier Marvel films.  There are also amazing cameos (Stan Lee appears) and callbacks galore and no post credit scenes for this ending chapter in Marvel. 

**** of **** stars for Marvel fans

Breezy Charm in SHAZAM!

A cross between Big and Superman, Shazam! is a fun loving superhero tale that is a refreshing take (from former horror director David F. Sandberg) on a comic book hero from DC Comics.

Set in 1974 and fast forwarding to the present, a powerful wizard seeks a human worthy of assuming superpowers against the Seven Deadly Sins who are desperate to wreak havoc. After growing up shuttled among foster homes, 14 year old Billy Batson has spent his life searching for his real mom.  His journey leads him to a foster home, where he learns the meaning of a real family. When he is transformed into a costumed, adult alter ego, Shazam (Zachary Levi well cast), he must learn to control his super powers and do battle with a deadly foe. It’s the ultimate battle between good versus evil. 

The film never takes itself too seriously compared to earlier, dark DC Comic films and makes for a great origin story with a bit of Harry Potter vibe. It has heart with its themes of belonging and the importance of having a loving, supportive family. It’s about Billy discovering his own truths and learning about the responsibilities of his newfound superpowers and what makes a hero. The film succeeds in focusing on the effects of abuse and trauma on children as well as depicting bullying and peer pressure in school. 

Though the climactic battle goes on a bit too long, the film never ceases to entertain as it balances the action with very funny moments especially when Shazam tests the limits of his extraordinary abilities. There are a couple of neat, surprise twists toward the end and DC Universe Easter eggs sprinkled throughout as well as two post-credit scenes.    

*** ½ of **** stars