Captain America: Civil War (9/13/2016)

Rated PG-13 for extended sequences of violence, action and mayhem.

Starring Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson, Anthony Mackie, Sebastian Stan, Chadwick Boseman, William Hurt, Jeremy Renner, Paul Rudd, Paul Bettany and Don Cheadle

Directed by Anthony Russo and Joe Russo (Captain America: The Winter Soldier)

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is massive and shows no signs of slowing down.

Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War finds Steve Rogers leading the newly formed team of Avengers in their continued efforts to safeguard humanity. But after another incident involving the Avengers results in collateral damage, political pressure mounts to install a system of accountability, headed by a governing body to oversee and direct the team. The new status quo fractures the Avengers, resulting in two camps—one led by Steve Rogers and his desire for the Avengers to remain free to defend humanity without government interference, and the other following Tony Stark’s surprising decision to support government oversight and accountability.

Way back in 2008, I anxiously entered a movie theater and hoped that Jon Favreau didn’t screw up my favorite comic book character. Two hours later I walked out of that theater blown away by what I just saw. But I had no idea that almost ten years later I would be seeing so many of Marvel’s greatest heroes on screen including several other heroes on TV and Netflix. It really is amazing to see a film that manages to integrate twelve very popular superheroes into one coherent story.

Directed by the brothers Joe and Anthony Russo, Civil War is technically a follow-up to 2014’s Captain America: Winter Soldier, but because of the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe, this movie also serves as a setup for future films like The Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity Wars and the newly “rescued” Spider-Man. The Russos also managed to find that perfect balance between plot and action, humor and drama.

I have talked to a lot of people who are confused by Iron Man and Captain America fighting. Well instead of my trying to explain the plot and who’s on who’s side, let me just say that filmmakers do a great job of setting up and developing the story. And because this is a Marvel film—as opposed to the darker DC universe—Civil War has plenty of humor. I mean watching Vision attempting to cook and admitting “In my defense, I’ve never actually eaten anything before” is funny. We also get a nice callback to the first Captain America movie when Cap says, “I can do this all day.” But my favorite was the entire Tony Stark/Peter Parker scene. By the way, this is the best Spiderman to date…just saying.

Besides a lot of laughs, the film has real heart. There are several moments between the characters that feel genuine and heartfelt. Tony’s line about how they “used to be friends” is powerful and shows the depth of the characters.

I can’t review this massive film without mentioning the special effects. Everything from Tony’s suits to Spiderman swinging into action, Civil War’s special effects are flawless. There is a scene where the characters are running through a tunnel with speeding cars. I don’t know if I have seen an action sequence this perfect…ever. I also have to say that I loved every scene Vision is in. Besides looking incredibly cool, everything about him works.

If there is a flaw in the Marvel films, it’s the lack of memorable villains…but I have a feeling that is going to change…so I’ll be patient.

I loved every minute of the 2½ hour film…its “Worth Buying.”

SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
This movie is fine for most teenagers.

There is no sex or nudity and the language is mild for a PG-13 film (No f-words, about 5 s-words, and a few others).

This movie contains a lot of intense action sequences, violence, and mayhem.

CONVERSATION STARTER:

1. How many times did the idea or revenge come up throughout the film?


2. In one scene Black Panther says, “Vengeance has consumed you. It is consuming them. I’m done letting it consume me.” What did he mean by that?


3. Have you ever wanted to take revenge or “get even” with someone? What happened?

Read Romans 12:17-19

Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord.


4. How should we respond when we are tempted to “get even”?