Marvel's Surprise Disappointment

Rating: 6/10 (9 September 2011)

With the previous two critical and box office hits released by Marvel, Thor and X-Men:First Class, and with The Avengers coming up, it would seem Marvel is back on form. Whilst this fact may still stand, Captain America is now a rare exception.
'The First Avenger' is far from being named a bad movie, it just isn't a very good one. Understandably, this is very disappointing. With a unique concept (superhero's in WWII makes a refreshing change to the bland modern day urban setting), and with a strong cast, this had so much potential.
So, just what went wrong? The film starts off strong, audiences being introduced to a likable protagonist with a mysterious and threatening villain. Both Chris Evans and Hugo Weaving provide their best performances, but are sadly limited with a script that refuses to give the characters any room to develop. Once pumped with super-soldier serum, Captain America's character turns into a generic two-dimensional hero, and as the film progresses seems to become less and less interesting. The character started off brilliantly- a man desperate to serve his country- and ends with him still not satisfied. Hmm. As for the villain, 'Red Skull', he was scarier before he ripped off his 'face'. A sort of sweet irony.
In truth, there are no actual flaws with this film other than it's refusal to go bolder and take greater risks in order to make a better film. This is hardly a failure, (Green Lantern), but it seems stuck in the past with mediocre superhero movies. That said, both fans and casual viewers should enjoy this on the whole, and if the end scene doesn't make you feel emotional, you must be made of stone! Plus a preview of next year's 'Avengers' at the end of the credits is a lovely treat. For now, a rental only.