Movie Review: The Avengers

The Avengers

Rating: PG-13 

(for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action throughout, and a mild drug reference)

Running Time: 143 minutes

IMDb Page: Avengers

Overview:

The Avengers is the culmination of five Marvel movies made over the past few years.  The series has included the mega blockbusters of Iron Man 1&2, The Incredible Hulk, Captain America, and Thor.  In an effort to defend the future of Earth the S.H.I.E.L.D. organization has assembled a this group of superheroes.  Unfortunately it hasn't always gone as planned.  The Avengers struggle to assemble due to rivaling egos and selfish personal interests.  Eventually this group of Super-Misfits must learn how to work together in order to defeat an intergalactic enemy.

Look at your Shoe Moments: 

Other than a few shots of Scarlett Johansen in her snug Black Widow uniform there were no inappropriate sex scenes or awkward moments.  There is some mild language, but for the most part it is an entirely clean movie that is fun to watch for the whole family.

Final Thoughts:

The Avengers was a highly anticipated movie that has made fanboys salivate over the idea of six superheroes sharing one screen.  Many wondered how they could pull off such an enormous cinematic feat.  I was even debating before I saw it, thinking that it would come down to the plot.  Everyone knew the CGI effects would be amazing, but if the plot fell short it would leave audience members unsatisfied.  I wondered how they could evenly share the screen time with so many lead characters.  I must give credit to the director, Joss Whedon, for pulling off a spectacular accomplishment.  The Avengers was non-stop fun, action, and excitement.  The plot kept you engaged and left you wanting more answers in the future Marvel flicks as the series continues.  

Not to over-spiritualize this summer blockbuster, but a verse that came to mind while watching this movie came from Paul's letter to the Philippian church.  

Philippians 2:1-4

"If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.  Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.  Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also the interests of others."

Paul wrote this to a church full of people that were different in many ways, but he knew that if they could overcome their differences and unite around a common goal in Christ they could be an unstoppable force. The same is true for the Avengers, when they discarded their egos and self interests they became a wrecking ball of goodness.

Bottom Line: 

You'll be SUPER disappointed if you miss the chance to see this SUPERhero movie on a SUPER big screen.