Vertigo

Vertigo
Vertigo

Friday, April 26, 2019

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

No comments: