Avengers: Infinity War Lives Up To The Hype

 "I'd like to talk to you about The Avengers initiative."  With one simple phrase, the face of Hollywood entertainment changed forever.  It launched the most intricate, well-thought out, series of interconnected films in cinematic history.  The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has become the gold standard that all other franchises try (and fail) to live up to.  A decade (and 16 films) later, it all boils down to this.  The fate of the universe is at stake, so assemble your group of Avengers and head to your local theater... you're in for a hell of a ride.

The MCU is coming to the end of its third phase.  Phase 1 was the set up.  Phase 2 was the expansion.  And Phase 3 has been spiraling towards this moment.  The moment our favorite heroes (well, except for 2... no spoilers, though!) team up to face the Mad Titan, Thanos, as he attempts to destroy half of the universe.  I'm not going to spoil any plot points or give any hints at who may or may not be with us after this film, but I will discuss why this film works.

Contrary to other cinematic universes (looking at you DC), the MCU took its time.  It developed characters and stories with the intention of creating a sense of familiarity with the movie going audience.  Every time there was a team up, the MCU didn't waste time developing pre-developed characters.  Instead, it took the time to develop any new characters who may appear.  For instance, in the first Avengers film, it was the Hawkeye show.  In Age Of Ultron, we get to know the Scarlet Witch and Quick Silver.  Since we had already met the main Avengers, they could do their thing in these team up films without needing to waste time on showcasing another side of their characters.  The same holds true for Infinity War.  Its Thanos' movie.  As the mayhem rapidly expands, we are treated to bits and pieces of what makes the Mad Titan tick.  I really liked that this film took the time to develop its villain... almost to the point of making us sympathize with him.  Contrary to the generic CGI villains of the DC universe (some of whom I can't even remember the names of), this film unravels the layers and intentions of Thanos before our eyes.  It creates a fully realized character over the course of two and a half hours.

Going in, I was worried that Infinity War would crumble under the weight of its many, many characters.  However, I'm pleased to report that it never felt like any character was being neglected.  Each Avenger was given time to shine as the many moving pieces seamlessly moved around the puzzle board.  This film moves at a break neck pace, but the Russo Brothers do their best to direct each scene so that nothing feels too quick or forced.

The final battle also didn't feel too fast or forced.  It wasn't filled with eight gazillion Michael Bay like edits.  I was quietly refreshed that it took its time to develop top notch action and adventure.

I don't want to ruin or spoil anything more.  Needless to say, there are shocking deaths and surprise returns.  Get out and see it!

I'm giving it 3.5 stars out of 4.  I had a couple bones to pick with it.  Namely, The Scarlet Witch just dropping her Russian accent without explanation.  Thanos' goon squad are a little underdeveloped for my tastes, but I understand why they did that.  There's only so much room to work with, and Thanos was definitely the most important.  It also feels like only part of a larger movie, but it definitely has a stopping point.  We will see the continuation of this story in next year's Avengers conclusion.  I can't wait!

There's one scene after the credits that sets up further adventures of Earth's mightiest heroes.