Right now, playing in your local movie theatre, is the Joss Whedon written & directed, Marvel Studios produced, and current #3 on the all time domestic box office list* - The Avengers. If you haven't yet seen the movie (how does it feel to be in the minority?), chances are you've heard of it as it smashes it's way through the box office, destroying many records in it's path. The Avengers isn't for everybody, but if you like superheroes, if you like action, if you like big event movies, then grab your shield, your hammer, your giant green fists or your iron suit and fly to the theatre now.
I remember very clearly the moment (about 4 years ago) that I heard the rumor of Marvel's plans to introduce a series of superhero films leading up to an Avengers movie {Iron Man 1 & 2, The Incredible Hulk, Thor, Captain America}. And I remember very clearly my reaction to that news: 'if they actually pull that off and make an Avengers movie it will be the first film of it's kind, a very special event'. How did they pull it off? Balance.
Balance is why this film is effective. Balance of character, balance of action, balance of humor. Joss Whedon knew he had to be a master of balance to pull this off. For me, the best part is the anticipation of Bruce Banner's first transformation into the Hulk. The dialogue, humor, and performances are so good at handling Banner's 'other guy' issue, that I almost didn't want the other guy to show up. Usually in a Hulk movie I'd want to see the Hulk as soon as possible, but in The Avengers, I wanted the anticipation to last (which it did for about an hour before the angry green guy finally shows up). Also, Tony Stark's fascination with Banner's unique ability adds to the fun.
Balance is why this film is effective. Balance of character, balance of action, balance of humor. Joss Whedon knew he had to be a master of balance to pull this off. For me, the best part is the anticipation of Bruce Banner's first transformation into the Hulk. The dialogue, humor, and performances are so good at handling Banner's 'other guy' issue, that I almost didn't want the other guy to show up. Usually in a Hulk movie I'd want to see the Hulk as soon as possible, but in The Avengers, I wanted the anticipation to last (which it did for about an hour before the angry green guy finally shows up). Also, Tony Stark's fascination with Banner's unique ability adds to the fun.
You don't need to be a comic-book geek to follow the story (I'm not). You don't even need to watch Marvel's previous superhero films which strategically led up to The Avengers (but it really helps, and why wouldn't you?!). There's exposition during the first fifteen minutes that made for a slow start, but overall, The Avengers is a great character-driven ride. Don't wait for home video. And stay until the very end of the credits if you're hungry for more...
The Avengers (2012)
* All time domestic box offers results are without adjustment for inflation
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