Captain America has been around for a while. He premiered in comic books during the 40’s and was made into a weekly serial for theaters in 1944. Next up….an animated TV series in 1966. This was followed by two made-for-TV movies in 1979. CA’s iconic costume as visualized in these two losers brings the film down to its lowest level. I have seen costumed movie goers in line for Star Trek movies with better outfits. In 1990 a film made outside the US featured a plot line close to the new film but it was another stinker and was never released theatrically in America.
Spending $140 million, the current filmmakers did better. Directed by Joe Johnson, whose best films include The Rocketeer, October Sky and Jurassic Park III. His ability to portray the era of the 40s in The Rocketeer helped him land the stewardship of CA. CA actually looks a lot like TR in many aspects, which is a good thing.
The story takes place during WWII with 98-pound weakling Steve Rogers being rejected by the military. He ends up in a special program to turn him into the first of an Army of Super Soldiers fighting for Uncle Sam. Complications ensue and he ends up the sole super hero. This is why they immediately promote him to Captain America instead of being just one of many Private Americas. The new buff hero is Chris Evans. You probably remember CE as one of the super heroes in Fantastic 4 (he was Human Torch/Johnny Storm) or as the voice over for a number of characters in the animated film TV series Robot Chicken.
CA turns out to be an above-average action film although there are a few flaws. Joe Johnston’s previously-mentioned period direction is a big help.
If you see CA be sure to sit all the way through the end credits. CA is the final super hero character introduced for the upcoming series with Samuel L. Jackson, The Avengers. One follow up scene and a preview teaser for TA is all the way at the end of the end titles. This series will feature Thor, Iron Man and CA in a new group of adventures. I can’t wait. I will have to, just like you, till next May.
Rated 3.0 out of 4.0 members of the team now on hand and ready to go.
