Film: Captain America: Civil War

In the latest offering from Marvel, Captain America: Civil War sees the Avengers divided over whether to subject themselves to guidelines and control. Steve (Captain America) believes that the Avengers shouldn’t be directed by political agenda, while Tony (Iron Man) feels the heroes need to be put in check. Their friends and allies are split in their allegiances, bringing the conflict to At its heart however Civil War is really a film about friendship, with Steve trying to live up to his promise to help his childhood pal turned brainwashed assassin Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan).

Civil War is a surprisingly thoughtful comic book movie, exploring the minds of its characters as much as showcasing them beat the hell out of each other. Steve’s journey throughout the film sees him question what it means to be an Avenger and how far he can go to protect Bucky. Steve and Bucky’s friendship takes centre stage, being contrasted nicely with his relationship with Tony. Chris Evans is able to effectively convey the conflicting emotions the captain feels. 

Robert Downey Jr. is still a delight as Tony Stark, the Russos smartly avoiding turning him completely into the bad guy. Tony does make some valid points, with the film highlighting all the damage caused by the Avengers’ intervention. Stark sees the reality of the situation, that heroes can not run around unchecked forever and must be brought in line. Some shortcuts are definitely taken to get him to this point but it isn’t a change that is wholly unbelievable. 

Many of the supporting cast have understandably smaller roles, a film featuring this many Avengers couldn’t possibly give them all equal time and Civil War smartly chooses to focus on its titular character above all else. Scarlett Johansson is given a strong role, conflicted between her loyalties and what she believes is right. None of the returning characters feel particularly stiffed by the film, with each Avenger given their due.

Black Panther (Chadwick Boseman) is first introduced in his royal position as Prince of Wakanda before his alter-ego is established, allowing the audience to know the man before they know the superhero. T’Challa is an intriguing individual, very proud and noble while following his own code. Wakanda is well established here in preparation for the character’s solo film which is sure to explore his roots further.

The all-new Spider-man (Tom Holland) makes a slightly more brief appearance but is a true standout of the film. Holland appears to be having tremendous fun in the role, bringing to life a Spider-man who is as hilarious as he is awkward. Spidey isn’t allowed to steal the show but is well set up for when his film rolls around. 

Of course Civil War is still a comic book movie with action set-pieces at its core and they do not disappoint. The highlight of the film is decidedly the big airport showdown which both sides of the conflict to a head. The fight embraces the incredible fun of the concept, seeing superheroes battle it out in exciting pairings. An early car chase is probably the least exciting action scene of the film, feeling too dragged out with a fairly predictable conclusion. The final confrontation is a very personal encounter, bringing the central conflict to a head.

The Russo brothers are able to create a very thought provoking film, one that questions how its heroes can operate in the world. The Avengers are left changed by Civil War, in ways that will be hard for them to overcome. It is an interesting landscape to kick off Marvel’s Phase Three and the new heroes are sure to have many difficult choices to make.