Out of the many comic book superheroes, men seem to have a partiality to Captain America. But after viewing the newest comic book-to-action movie “Captain America: The First Avenger,” the reasoning seems obvious.
Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) isn’t a standard guy — he’s a pitifully scrawny, bullied and girlfriend-less guy. Set in 1940s New York City, all Steve wants to do is fight for his country in the army, but doesn’t seem to stand a chance against anyone because of his small size — much less the Nazi army. Yet while his good-guy attitude is ignored by his tough military leader (Tommy Lee Jones), it is quickly recognized by Dr. Abraham Erskine (Stanley Tucci), and the kindhearted German doctor chooses Steve for his super soldier experiment.
Somehow, the well-known action star Evans plays a believable character (though the scrawny build and weak chin don’t hide Evans’ deep voice), but emerges from the trial with six-pack abs, muscular arms and incredible Captain America strength.
Meanwhile, Nazi Germany is at work producing another enemy that even Hitler has deemed insane: Johann Schmidt (Hugo Weaving). Intent on finding a mystical source that can power his many destructive weapons, Johann transforms himself into Red Skull, a ruthless killer and dictator who presides throughout all of Europe. After hearing that his best friend (Sebastian Stan) has been captured, Steve (now a studly looking Captain America) works to destroy the factories and save his friend.
Needless to say, the casting for Captain America was phenomenal. Evans is the perfect “good guy” superhero, complete with good looks and an unassuming personality. Smaller roles are executed perfectly, especially Tucci’s soft German accent and Jones’ barking orders. Hayley Atwell’s timeless beauty also captivates America, but she especially catches Captain America’s eye as his strong-willed love interest. Even smaller roles are explored and add a sense of continuity throughout the film. The plot somehow inserts humor, adrenaline and romance into all the right places, without overbearing one storyline by another.
Taking on an ambitious storyline and rewriting a part of American history seems simple enough for the Marvel corporation, seeing as it did the same thing in its earlier summer blockbuster, “X-Men: First Class.” However, quite unlike other Marvel movies, “Captain America” honors this chapter in America’s history by recreating the 1940s with soft lighting and retro-inspired filming techniques. Detailed sets, meticulous costuming and amazing effects create the Captain America world into something beautiful and nostalgic. It doesn’t feel as if audiences are watching an old movie, but rather seeing the 1940s as commonly imagined. It isn’t until Red Skull’s destructive technology is introduced that the movie takes a turn to science fiction (and at times even feels a bit like watching “Star Wars”). Marvel also took the time to weave many other Marvel storylines into “Captain America,” most likely gearing up for next summer’s highly anticipated movie, “The Avengers.”
Audiences can’t help but adore Captain America. It isn’t just his all-American good looks and kind personality, but his transformation that inspires many. In a time when America is in turmoil, a superhero is needed more than ever. “Captain America” successfully fills that much-needed role.
