Review of Avengers: Infinity War (2018) by Kyle L — 03 Jun 2018

Avengers:Infinity War is by no means perfect. The pacing of the film is somewhat slow due to the numerous plot threads it carries. Some characters aren't able to be developed as much as others. The Children of Thanos do very little to be remembered (even if they can be viewed as a reflection of some of Marvel's other lesser developed villains).

The film is however a monument to everything the MCU has been able to build this past decade and the Russo Brothers are able to very successfully capitalise on the familiarity the audience has built with these characters over this period. A large majority of the enjoyment of this film comes from the characters and their interactions with each other, creating memorable and fun moments which many have been dreaming of for years. The film may not be accessible to new viewers who aren't particularly well informed on the MCU, but this is a film which shouldn't have to worry about that considering its massive scope and is allowed to trust the audience in knowing many of the characters. The way in which the Russo Brothers manage to nail every single one of the characters is astounding as they manage to stay true to many whilst also elevating a certain few (doctor strange is far more enjoyable here than in his own movie).

Thanos is the central character here and it was an incredible decision to make him so. It allows us to empathise with the villain and presents the hero's journey as experienced by a villain who believes himself to be the saviour of the universe, something which has been rarely done, and never successfully to my own knowledge, and is a welcome breath of fresh air in the superhero genre.

Despite its dark subject matter, the film manages to balance the usual lighter tones of the MCU without compromising the more sombre moments.

Infinity War is highly entertaining and rewarding for those who have followed the Marvel story (even if you have missed a few) and reminds me of the massive crossover events seen in comic books; a first of any movie in the MCU, and a welcome and exciting new prospect.