Captain America: The First Avenger

Marvel have left their pride and joy to last. Their most recognisable character is introduced before he joins up with The Avengers next year.

There is always a certain amount of skepticism when 'America' is used in a film's title. Especially in a film like this when the term jingoism can be used. But it is an American film set during World War II so we can expect it to all be about the Americans winning the war single handed. Single handed is true in so far as one man does it all on his own. For these reasons and a few others I expected it was hard to write a film like this. Making a believable and exciting story out of an iconic character that sums up American ideals and make it appealing to a foreign audience. I think they have succeeded. This is just good old fashioned fun with a bit of modern flair. This does mean it cannot escape cliche and corniness but you don't really mind. I really liked the character arc that Steve Rogers/Captain America goes through in the film. It is also one of the greatest physical transformations as well. This is a perfect example of special effects being used effectively to tell a story. I'm the type of person that looks for the join in these situations and I could not find one. I also liked how Captain America had to prove himself a hero. The army did not just use him as a weapon right away. He was first used for propaganda and then had to find a mission for himself to prove he could be a soldier. In a film set during World War II when you have the most evil villain already in place I was surprised they could come up with someone more menacing.

Not content with already playing one Marvel superhero, Chris Evans now plays another. I think he is perfectly cast as Steve Rogers a young man determined to fight but unable to get a chance. He brings a great deal of old fashioned charm to the character that makes him very endearing. He does not come across as too arrogant which would have killed the characters appeal. Chris can play the bravo elements but still be sweet about it. Tommy Lee Jones can play a military type in his sleep. While this is not a criticism when he does such a good job of it. Dominic Cooper plays an important character but does not get much to do but stand in the background twiddling knobs. Hayley Atwell plays a good love interest for Steve and has a nice moment at the end which I hope is continued in 'The Avengers'. Hugo Weaving has played many villains before and is excellent here as well. He is ably backed up by Toby Jones as his side-kick.

A great deal of old fashioned fun that leaves you excited for 'The Avengers' next year. Don't worry about all the American propaganda as it is not forceful and overbearing.