This has been a roller coaster summer for Marvel Studios with X-men: First Class garnering rave reviews and Thor leaving audiences disappointed and puzzled. But with their third offering of the summer movie season, Captain America, Marvel definitely hits a high note.
Battling a host of ailments and more than his fair share of neighborhood bullies, 98 lbs weakling Steve Rodgers tries and fails to enlist five times before being selected for a top secret program to scientifically produce America's first super-soldier. The process works and Rodgers is transformed into the perfect physical specimen; but through the evil machinations of Cap's nemesis the Red Skull, the process is forever lost and Captain America becomes not the USA's first but its only super powered infantryman. With Agent Peggy Carter and technical genius Howard Stark lending support and a team of deadly Howling Commandos backing him up Captain America takes the fight to the Nazis and challenges the rising might of Hydra.
Director Joe Johnston brings to life a slightly idyllic vision of the WWII era and perfectly frames one of the most enduring and iconic hero journeys in American pop culture. Chris Evan makes a convincing Cap. He not only packs on the muscle to fill out the star spangled avenger's iconic costume, but he does a solid job of bringing out the humanity, humility, basic decency and bullheaded bravery that makes Rodgers such an unforgettable character. Hugo Weaving reminds us why he's everyone's favorite villain, playing the Red Skull with menace enough to command our attention whenever he appears on screen. Hayley Atwell (Agent Carter) merits special mention for her work in the film, playing a compelling character carries far more weight in the plot than simply Captain America's love interest.
Summer movie fans will find themselves satisfied with Captain America: The First Avenger. It offers the action, thrills, drama and uplifting message we have come to associate with good films from the folks at Marvel. This weekend is all about Cap, and that's a good thing.
