bites off a bit more than it can chew, but still delivers

Rating: Null/10 (3 May 2015)

With S.H.I.E.L.D. dismantled and ominous threats still looming worldwide, the Avengers are left to their own devices as they try and maintain their status as Earth's mightiest heroes. Seeking a way to preserve global peace after their latest mission to retrieve the Scepter turns out to be especially demanding, team benefactor Tony Stark (now more the mad scientist than the billionaire genius), unveils the "Ultron project" an artificial intelligence program that promptly evolves into a powerful sentient incapable of distinguishing between saving humanity, or simply eradicating it. Encountering new foes, familiar faces, and unexpected obstacles, time is not on their side as the team attempts to complete their mission. Never quite as epic in scale as it predecessor this often feels more like a transition or prelude to the next phase of the MCU, but it still serves up some sensational action sequences and stunts, memorable fight scenes, excellent visual effects, well-written dialogue, and an incomparable cast. Not particularly deep, as evidenced by its underdeveloped supporting characters and subplots, but it's still a lot of fun and most importantly leaves you wanting more. ***