Captain America: Winter Soldier Review

Title: Captain America: Winter SoldierMPAA Rating: PG-13Director: Anthony & Joe RussoStarring: Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Anthony MackieRuntime: 2 hr 16 mins

What It Is: Oh captain! My captain! Steve Rogers has now somewhat acclimated to his 21st-century existence. With this conundrum now out of the way, “the cap” turns his attentions to the matters at hand. Nothing too big, just thwarting terrorists and Algerian pirates. All the while there’s something afoot in the form of a mystery man, the titular “Winter Soldier”. What this guy's intentions are, along with who he is, are a mystery. One that Captain Rogers hopes to soon uncover. Unfortunately for him, that’s not the only thing he’ll uncover.

What We Think: Solid film throughout. Rogers is once again a star in his turn as the do-gooder Captain. A newcomer to the series, Mackie adds some much-needed comedy at just the right time. There is much more going on in this film than the previous one, and for that I’m glad! My seat was not, I believe, sat in during the duration of the film. Allegiance was unclear until they were revealed, and the story doesn’t treat us like fourth graders. Overall, a fantastic film and not just popcorn schlock meant for mass consumption. The cap makes espionage look super, and Sebastian Stan’s Winter Soldier is as mysterious throughout as he is dangerous.

Our Grade: A,while it is by no means perfect, it’s a huge step up for this particular Avenger. I felt First Avenger was good but often lacked any bite. Here we have a bite to go with the Shielded One's tremendous bark. Many of the set pieces are wonderful but don’t become isolated within the film; in particular, within the elevator scene and the films opening 10 or so minutes. Evans and Georges St-Pierre have one of the best fight scenes of the year, and I’d say the top one in the Marvel canon. With the signature Marvel humor scattered throughout, this is not one to miss!