Read our review of Captain Marvel on UHD 4K.
Captain Marvel is among the characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with whom I have the least familiarity. I have not read any of her comic books, nor do I recall encountering her in the numerous animated films and series I’ve watched. Therefore, experiencing her introduction in the film Captain Marvel was a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
The Kree and the shape-shifting Skrulls have engaged in an intergalactic conflict for many years. Vers (Brie Larson) and Yon-Rogg (Jude Law) are Kree warriors tasked with rescuing a crucial spy stranded on a planet controlled by their adversaries. This mission soon reveals itself as a trap, leading to Vers’s capture. She escapes, and in the ensuing chaos, crash lands on Earth (planet C-35). Pursued by Skrulls, the conflict extends to our 1990s world, a place unfamiliar to Vers, yet evokes recurring memories. It soon becomes apparent that the initial appearances were deceptive.
In Avengers: Infinity War, Captain Marvel’s existence was hinted at via a futuristic pager, resulting in significant anticipation for this film. Films with such extensive pre-release hype often disappoint upon release. However, this is not the case here. Directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck deliver a compelling superhero film with a relevant message and a strong central character. Brie Larson’s portrayal of Captain Marvel is ideally suited to the role, balancing the human and supernatural aspects seamlessly. Larson, an Oscar winner for “The Room,” is relatively new to the superhero genre, but finds a capable counterpart in Samuel L. Jackson, who reprises his role as S.H.I.E.L.D. Director Nick Fury for the tenth time, with a significantly expanded role this time around.
Ben Mendelsohn also deserves recognition for his portrayal of the Skrull leader, Talos, delivering a remarkable performance in Captain Marvel. His comedic timing and acting prowess are particularly noteworthy. I cannot elaborate on Anette Bening’s character without revealing key plot points, but I can affirm that her charisma and strength contribute to a memorable performance. Similarly, Lashana Lynch‘s portrayal of the skilled pilot, Maria Rambeau, feels genuine and heartfelt in her scenes with Brie Larson. My only reservation lies with Jude Law‘s interpretation of Yon-Rogg, which felt somewhat understated and lacked conviction.
The visual effects are executed flawlessly, and the digital de-aging of Samuel L. Jackson and Clark Gregg (as Coulson) sets a new benchmark in filmmaking. The execution is so seamless that it becomes unnoticeable within moments of the film’s commencement. The action sequences are well-choreographed, and the film maintains a balanced pace, neither sluggish nor rushed. Set in 1995, Captain Marvel effectively captures the era through its soundtrack and numerous period-specific references and details, evoking a strong sense of nostalgia.
Be sure to remain seated during the end credits for the customary bonus scenes. With the premiere of Avengers: Endgame approaching in April, Captain Marvel provides the final pieces of context required before we witness what is anticipated to be the most epic superhero film ever, uniting an unprecedented number of characters in a single narrative.
Captain Marvel has minor shortcomings, occasionally lacking subtlety in its messaging. While the themes are effectively communicated, the film sometimes employs overly forceful methods. The humor is generally well-integrated, but a few sequences involving a cat recall the comedic style of Men in Black, feeling somewhat incongruous with the film’s overall tone.
In conclusion, I, along with the rest of the editorial staff, found Captain Marvel to be genuinely entertaining, and I eagerly anticipate her role in Avengers: Endgame. If there is one character who should inspire genuine fear in the seemingly invincible supervillain Thanos, it is undoubtedly her.
