We all know the initial hype that surrounded The Avengers. It was either going to be one the best comic book movie of all time, or another botched job like so many of its fallen brothers. The verdict is in, and not only is this one of the most amazing comic book movies of all time, it’s a nonstop, action packed, thrill ride of epic proportion. From start to finish, The Avengers is the kind of movie that will have entire audience on edge of their seats, enthralled by the story that unfolding, literally, in their face (3D). This is a film that Marvel has been building toward over the past few years, and it’s well worth the wait. The casting is perfect, Joss Whedon’s script and directing are second to none, and the special effects are…Avengerific.

One of the key elements to The Avengers’ success is the way Marvel built up to it over the years with individual superhero films, allowing audiences to instantly empathize with the cast: Iron Man/Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.), Captain America/Steve Rogers (Chris Evans), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Hulk/Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner). Though Black Widow and Hawkeye only had minor roles, if any, in past films, their characters fit right into the universe, and their chemistry with the rest of the cast is evident from the opening scene. Kudos to Marvel for sticking with their game plan.

In the case of Bruce Banner, Mark Ruffalo had some big green shoes to fill considering everyone was hoping to see Ed Norton. Ruffalo actually feels like a more appropriate fit, believe it or not, and captures the essence of The Hulk better than the past two versions. His appearance serves well for the classic nerdy gamma ray scientist, and he submerses himself into the role wholeheartedly. His clever remarks about “making big messes” throughout the film not only add comic relief, but they showcase Whedon’s talent to add subtle humor that fit flawlessly with the comic book blockbuster style.

We all know Whedon’s work, we all know he’s talent, but The Avengers is a true testament of his ability as a filmmaker. He is able to evoke such a wide range emotional responses throughout the film. The character dynamics work on so many levels. Their whimsical interplay is hilarious, but when it comes down to the action sequences, they work as a team and look totally badass while doing so. Thor and The Hulk smashing aliens is a wet dream on screen, while Black Widow’s sly spy tactics are just plain cool. Joss Whedon gives all the characters their time in the spot light, while making sure not cast a shadow over others. The Avengers will make you laugh, cry, and cheer out of sheer excitement.

Whedon constantly reminds us that, though they may be superheroes, they’re also people (for the most part) and because of that, they have personalities that at times clash. None of them are perfect; some are utterly self-centered, while others are overly self- sacrificing. In the end they are able to bind together under the leadership of Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) and give the fans what they’ve been waiting for. While the actors did a commendable job of playing such convincing heroes, you’ve got to hand it to Whedon for being able to balance such an all-star team.

It’s hard to talk about any big blockbuster movie these days without mentioning the special effects, especially given the move to 3D. The Avengers is an orgasm for the brain when it comes to special effects. The 3D is never over the top; it’s actually quite subtle and brings you right into the action. The incredible explosions, beams of energy, punches, and transformation that pop out of the screen take place under your very nose, making it hard to imagine that Tony Stark may not actually be in that metal suit. It’s important to say that the epic nature of the film is not all due to the 3D. Seeing it in 2D won’t hinder the experience because this is simply a quality film with an unbelievable production value. But unless you have motion sickness issues, it was made to be seen in 3D, and should be seen that way.

Watching the “World’s Greatest Heroes” all on screen at once will give you chills. While all the individual Marvel movies that came before have their merits, there’s nothing quite like seeing Captain American and Iron Man fighting side by side with the fate of humanity in their hands. This is an impeccable comic book film, which will go down in the books as Whedon’s magnum opus. If you haven’t seen it yet, do it as soon as you can. Bravo Avengers, Bravo.

It’s your turn Mr. Nolan.

4.5/5 Skulls

Review by – GreenBasterd and Lonmonster