The Avengers (Joss Whedon, 2012)

Just what I was expecting – a solid Hollywood blockbuster. If there’s one type of film Hollywood can make well, then this is it. And not surprisingly, The Avengers is drawing in the crowds, setting a new record for the highest opening weekend debut at the North American box office by earning over $200 million.

One of the reasons why this film works is that is that it combines the force and popularity of several different characters. Each of the characters, including Iron Man, Hulk, Captain America and Thor, has a distinct and colourful personality that really makes the comic books come alive in this film. Building a film around established characters is certainly an advantage but there is also a big risk when taking on these iconic figures. This is where a strong ensemble cast can come into play, with actors such as Robert Downey Jr (whose Iron Man was already a proven hit among audiences) infusing their characters with a personality that is larger than life (and breaks free from the 2D pages of a comic book). It is interesting to see the mix of superheroes – from a very modern and tech-savvy Iron Man, to a more traditional Captain America (one of the earliest superheroes), as well as the more enigmatic Natasha Romanoff (a.k.a. Black Widow).

The Avengers sees S.H.I.E.L.D’s Nick Fury assemble this team of superheroes to help save the Earth from Loki (Thor’s adopted brother) and his extra-terrestrial army. A basic plot but with great effects and some unexpected humour. I found myself laughing out loud during what were some very entertaining and unanticipated scenes. (For instance, the encounter between Hulk and Loki at Tony Stark’s tower.) Just like Tony Stark, the film doesn’t seem to take itself too seriously. Clearly, Joss Whedon knows comic books and is familiar with their dynamics and how to bring them to the screen. Even without being an avid comic book reader (although I wouldn’t be surprised if I start reading them now thanks to the appeal of recent comic book-based films), I enjoyed The Avengers and found it engaging, full of action and just plain fun.

4.5/5