REVIEW: Captain Marvel is a Much Needed Addition to the Marvel Universe
Eleven years and twenty movies later, Marvel Studios is finally releasing its first female-led superhero film, Captain Marvel. Fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe wondered if the film would live up to expectations and Captain Marvel does just that.
Captain Marvel takes place before the events in Avengers: Infinity War, starting off in 1995 and telling the story of Vers (Brie Larson). Vers is a super warrior hero from the planet Kree, who is part of a task force, led by Yon-Rogg (Jude Law). The task force sets out to prevent the Skrulls, another alien force, from destroying the galaxy. Things go awry during a mission and Vers ends up on Earth. Here, her story takes a different turn, resulting in a much bigger mission than she ever anticipated. Vers also begins to have questions about her life answered.
Unlike some previous Marvel origin stories, this movie’s focuses are the introduction of Captain Marvel and to explain how she fits into Marvel’s Cinematic Universe. The story doesn’t deviate too far from these goals nor does it add any unnecessary plot pieces. The storytelling is intriguing, fast paced, and filled with much more comedy than one would expect especially between Brie and Samuel L. Jackson, who appears in the movie as a younger Nick Fury. The two are a treat to watch on screen together.
Larson’s take on Captain Marvel will have millions of people walking out of the theater feeling like they too can take on anything. She brings a sense of power to the role and a unique sense of humor that may have otherwise been missing if someone else played the part. She was meant to bring this character to life on the big screen. Joining Larson in the film are Lashana Lynch, Clark Gregg, and Jackson.
Gregg and Jackson are welcome returns to the Marvel Universe. There wasn’t nearly enough of Gregg’s Agent Coulson and his deadpan sense of humor, but the scenes he’s in remind us why Coulson is a fan favorite. Jackson, however, is seen quite often in the movie. When we meet Fury, he is starting out at SHIELD and has yet to be changed by politics or war. This allowed Jackson to bring a lighter, fresher version of the character to life, which was a joy to watch on screen.
Lashana Lynch is brand new to the Marvel world as fighter pilot, Maria Rambeau. From start to finish, she made this character strong and witty. She’s great to watch play alongside Larson and Jackson.
Higher, Further, Faster will be a motto many will chant after seeing this movie. Captain Marvel proves this character is more than up to the task of equaling the big boys in the Marvel world. Even though, as in the movie, she doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone. Hopefully, this will the first of many female-led superhero movies created for this Universe.
Captain Marvel is a stupendous, entertaining, electrifying addition. It answers questions fans have had and clearly demonstrates not just how she fits into the Marvel universe but why she will be a force to be reckoned with. Make sure to not miss a moment! There are a mid-credit and end credit scene, stay until the end. You will not be disappointed.
Grade: A