Avengers: Endgame - Film Review

Synopsis

After the devastating events of Avengers: Infinity War (2018) when Thanos (Josh Brolin) erased half of all living creatures off the face of the universe, the universe is left in shambles. In Avengers: Endgame, with the help of the living heroes, warriors, and Captain Marvel (Brie Larson), the Avengers set out to reverse Thanos' snap and return the universe to its original state and population.

Review

To start, the script is possibly the best in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (or MCU). It is so rife with heart, emotion, and humor, as per usual. There is plenty of heart at the root of the story. The main storyline literally pulls from other films in the MCU. It's very nostalgic. The directors expertly crafted the film around the CHARACTERS, allowing for a better and more grounded connection to the story. The action SCENE(s) is perfection. It is beautifully shot and it's so fun and epically gratifying. Because of the extensive character work, the performances feel richer and more grounded in truth and emotion. There is an elevated level of pathos in this film compared to others in this franchise. The ending was top notch. The end sequence runs for about 10 or 15 minutes (a little longer than normal), but it’s to wrap up essential storylines. Nevertheless, it’s a very well done 10-15 minutes that may or may not (it may; it definitely may) make you cry. To me, there was no better way to wrap up all the essential character arcs because they all fit so well with the theme of passing on the torch. Also, you might be pleased to know that while it is 3 hours, it does not feel like it. That just speaks to how well the film is executed. As an aside, there’s a portion of the mid-credits sequence where the main six Avengers literally "sign off." It was a very clever way to send the Avengers off. Most superhero movies choose style over substance (with a few notable exceptions), meaning that they lack story in favor of a CGI massacre. This film has a perfect balance of style AND substance and is almost more substance than style. Avengers: Endgame is the most emotionally resonant and emotionally gratifying film in the MCU. The hardcore fans will love.