Not what I expected but still a good movie

Rating: 8/10 (28 April 2019)

It is important to note I am a huge MCU a fan. I firmly believe that that each film is as unique as its lead characters, but importantly plays a part in the journey leading up to Avengers: Endgame.
Avengers: Infinity War was a great film. The plot was smooth, the multiple storylines merging was seamless, and the tone of the film was dark and heartbreaking with light nods of humour. If you look at this film as part one and Avengers: Endgame as part two, they are very different.
Infinity War's ending of Thanos' success and the Avengers' defeat should have been the tone that carried throughout the beginning of Endgame. I did not feel this sorrow (other than the first scene with Hawkeye).
There was more humour than necessary, and I am still torn about the transformations of Thor and the Hulk. I enjoyed Thor: Ragnarok very much and Thor's comedic moments are truly a delight. In Infinity War, The Hulk "wouldn't come out." This led audiences to believe he would make an epic appearance in Endgame, which he did not. He barely smashed anything and was transformed into the best of both Bruce and the big guy; however, I enjoyed The Hulk and Thor's interactions in Ragnarok, when the Hulk began speaking in full conversations. When I watch the film again I might have a greater appreciation for their character transformations.
Because the feel of the film was more light and playful than Infinity War, I knew that the Avengers would ultimately win. I just didn't know how. I definitely did not predict the end of Infinity War, as I did not believe Thanos would find all six stones. I wish we had a bit more time with Captain Marvel at the beginning of the film and got to see more of her interacting with the surviving Avengers.
I very much enjoyed reliving parts of other MCU films as the Avengers traveled through time. There were some great tear jerker moments (both happy and sad, and the ending of the film was quite satisfying. Cap got the girl and lived a full life, Tony met his fate (as many predicted), and Thor left with the Guardians of the Galaxy, which opens up an opportunity for another film.
The reunions were heart wrenching, and I was so overjoyed to see the dusted characters return to Cap's aid in his most dire moment. The interaction between Tony and Peter Parker was long overdue but worth the wait!
Overall it was satisfying and a fantastic movie. I cannot wait to see it again!