A real marvel.

Rating: 7/10 (10 March 2019)

It takes a little while for 'Captain Marvel (2019)' to come into its own but, once it does, it's certainly enjoyable. It sets itself up to be somewhat generic, broadly speaking, so that it can pull a superb subversion later on. This 'twist', for lack of a better term, is rather unexpected, which is partially due to the casting of certain key players and the track record that the genre (as well as cinema as a whole, actually) has with such things. It's an invigorating, societally relevant plot-point that shakes things up and adds an appreciated dosage of subtext, too. It's not the only reason why the piece is ultimately as successful as it is, though. Another key aspect is the inclusion of one (scarily good CG) Samuel L. Jackson, whose chemistry with the equally good Brie Larson is what really makes the movie work. Their interactions are what keep things feeling light and energetic - though, that's not to imply that the narrative fails to deliver its darker, or more serious, moments. It's actually quite resonant in a number of key places, which is partially because the affair doesn't feel as though it's taking itself too seriously - it's not dour, that's for sure. Ben Mendelsohn takes a tricky role and does wonders with it, making sure that the humour doesn't undercut the emotion so much as make it seem more realistic. The actual plot focuses quite a bit on investigation, as the central character tries to untangle the mess of maybe messed-with memories inside her head. The whole thing is quite compelling, with the answers slowly being revealed to both us and the character at the same time. This is another aspect that feels fairly unique, especially among the slate of 'origin stories' within the 'MCU'. Some of the revelations are slightly obvious - though, maybe just to those familiar with the tropes associated with this type of story - but this isn't a big deal because most things are encompassed by the larger, more subversive 'reveal', which is harder to see coming, and because it's undeniably satisfying when everything is eventually on the table. I guess the most macro, or obvious, theme is that of empowering determination, a 'get back up' mentality that prevents others from dictating what one can and cannot do. The third act, which sees this theme come full circle in the name of compassion, is fun and fulfilling, despite being driven by a now somewhat overpowered (near indestructible) 'superhero'. Ultimately, the picture is entertaining and, even, somewhat unexpected. It easily sits somewhere if the better half of the 'MCU', pulling off a decently original 'origin story' around ten years after they, essentially, stopped being required. It also has one of, if not, the best (now sadly posthumous) Stan Lee cameos in the business. Obviously, it's not perfect but it's still a real marvel. 7/10