Stars & Stripes

    Amidst the onslaught of comic book and graphic novel film adaptations, Captain America: The First Avenger (2011) stands out as a solitary beacon of hope. Directed by Joe Johnston, Captain America follows Steves Rodgers (Chris Evans) as he desperately attempts to join the military in order to fight in World War II for the US Army. After several failed attempts, Rodgers lucks out and is accepted into a top secret military program that turns him into Captain America.
    Chris Evans sheds the tattered remains of the Fantastic Four, and delves into this new beautifully crafted 3-D realm with maturity and ease. Deeply involved, Rodgers commits himself wholehearted to the American ideal. Chiseled looks, humility, and determination are the name of the game here. With strong characters portrayed by Hugo Weaving and Tommy Lee Jones, Captain America totes brains, looks, and talent. Unlike previous comic book to film adaptations, Captain America is well structured. This film takes it's time to develop characters and our emotional connection to them. Being heavily scripted, Captain America does not rely simply on special effects alone to keep our rabid attention. Impeccable comedic timing and emotional brevity is flaunted by the entire cast. More to the point, Captain America is nostalgic, iconic and simple. Be sure to stay till the very end of the credits for an exclusive peek into 2012's Avengers film. A great summer film to enjoy with friends and family.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Maximum of 5)