We’ve finally reached the conclusion of the “The Infinity Saga.” 21 films released in 11 years, achieving box office glory, pop culture status and establishing numerous Marvel characters we’ve come to know and love is an impressive feat that is not likely to be repeated anytime soon.
And then here comes Endgame. Walking onto the Walt Disney Studios lot, I started to get nervous about what I was about to see. Three hours and two minutes later, I left with a smile on my face and tears in my eyes. It is everything a Marvel fan could want.
On one hand, it’s bombastic, fun, clever and action packed. On the other, it’s the equivalent of an emotional gut punch delivered by none other than Ali or Holyfield. Coming on the heels of Infinity War, we all knew emotions would run high, but nothing could prepare you for the complex narratives and character beats presented here. Even with it’s three hour runtime, you may come away from this with more questions than answers, but that’s part of the fun of being a fan.
As you watch the film you’ll start to realize; Endgame is as much a conclusion as it is a love letter to everyone who has watched along the way. You’ll want to laugh, cry out of excitement, weep for the truly sad moments and yell out of pure shock, but that’s what a good film does: it keeps you on your toes, invested in every single frame and dialogue that you can take away from it. Everyone involved in this project brought their A-game and it shows in many ways. The sheer technicality of executing a film of this magnitude from set design, production, cinematography and effects should be praised and discussed for years to come.
Endgame‘s scope, visual effects, story and performances brings the saga to an epic ending while making you excited for the future stories to come from this universe. There so many good moments in it, you’ll easily be okay worth the price of admission. Many in the cast do their best work here. You can feel that they are all comfortable in their own skin, fully embodying the heroes and villains we once dreamt about seeing in live action.
All of this is not to stay there aren’t a few hiccups storyline or character wise along the way. While there were some small issues, they quickly become less important as the film stays focused on great character moments as it hurtles toward the end. After 21 films and all the time we’ve spent investing ourselves and dollars into them, the payoff in Endgame is well earned and above all, fulfilling.
Avengers: Endgame is one hell of a way for the Russo Brothers, screenwriters Markus & McFeely and Kevin Feige to wrap up a story that began with 2008’s Iron Man. You are not ready for what this film will present and that’s a testament to the work on the film.
Yes, this review is short. That’s on purpose. This is one movie that shouldn’t be initially watched on a phone or pirated. Avoid spoilers or hearing plot specifics at school or work. If you can afford to see it in a theater, do it. Screenings start Thursday. Buy your tickets now if you haven’t already and prepare for the time of your life. I promise; the experience will be worth it.
Additional thoughts and observations:
- DO NOT eat or drink shortly before or during the film. The pace is quick and you’ll miss things.
- Spend some time talking with your friends after watching; discussion will be needed.
- Remember to breathe.
- You’re going to need repeat viewings of this film to fully take it in.
- You will cry. Bring tissues. Or you can use your sleeve, but that’s just gross.