Tense, entertaining debut of Marvel hero Captain America

Rating: 7/10 (22 April 2016)

Marvel Studios is absolutely no stranger to box office glory, and such has been proved since the debut of the Marvel Cinematic Universe beginning with 'Iron Man' in the summer of 2008. Whether the biggest appeal ignites from the charismatic special effects, the filmmakers' enigmatic ability to adapt the comics to the screen, or both of the above; the Marvel Cinematic Universe never fails to grip the attention of millions of fans around America and gained a highly spoken popularity status. And its success is not anticipated to reach stopping point anytime soon. This action blockbuster directed by Joe Johnston is no exception, introducing the patriotic superhero Captain America wielding an American flag- designed shield and where his story began. Set in the 1940s during World War II, Chris Evans plays Steve Rogers, a frustrated short lightweight weakling who enlists in the U.S army, but is consequently rejected due to his incompetence. His life changes when he is later recruited by Dr. Erskine (played by Stanley Tucci) and Colonol Chester Phillips (played by Tommy Lee Jones) for a high-tech experiment that transforms him from a skinny "98 pound weakling" to a powerful superhuman suiting the identity of you guessed it -- Captain America. When Dr. Erskine is unexpectedly murdered by Johann Schimdt a.k.a. Red Skull (played by Hugo Weaving), head of a secret Nazi corporation, Captain America is assigned to take him down.
This film is about the same kind of popcorn flick you would expect of the other Marvel cinematic entries, and relatively the same appeal. This science-fiction action thriller carries on its charisma with the amazing performance by Chris Evans who stands out with diligence in the role of titular hero as well as the fantastic Hugo Weaving as the prominent villain Red Skull, and it's faithful justice to the comic books. Captain America makes out to be an easily likable with both pros and flaws while less. Unlike most superheroes though, Captain America gives no second thoughts before killing his enemies, similar to his portrayal in the comics. As the story takes place during the height of World War II, the film carries a theme of patriotism with some political commentary dealing with war in the European front, and and it fits with the story somewhat well. The story is decently paced and rarely sports a dull moment, though it has some minor flaws sprinkled throughout its run, most particular the villain Red Skull who's a little memorable than the most of the Marvel villains. Nonethless, the film leaves the rest of its appeal to spectacular action sequences punctuated by charming special effects, and the occasional humor from the supporting cast.
Captain America: The First Avenger is a tense, solid, and entertaining addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and a soulful introduction to the titular hero. This is as film that many Marvel fans can't be help but be pleased with. Is it what I called one of the best of the Marvel films? Probably not. But it certainly appealing and a fun superhero blockbuster that delivers well and defines the career of the main star Chris Evans.