Captain America: Civil War is the greatest comic book movie yet. It just simply is. It successfully ties in most of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and makes Avengers: Age Of Ultron a better movie. These days, comic book movies come with a lot of hype. Batman V. Superman was fueled by it, but failed to live up to it. Civil War exceeds the hype. I am not here to bash DC/Warner Bros. Truth be told, Batman is my favorite comic character and fortunately the only DC seems to be able to get right. Part of the problem with the other superhero battle movie was that they still can't figure Superman out. Marvel doesn't make that mistake. They know exactly who Iron Man and Captain America are and how to present them on screen.
The story is simple. Two men on the same side, but with different beliefs and the conflict because of them. Political pressure mounts to hold heroes accountable for their actions causing a rift between the Avengers. Loyalties are tested when a villain with a simple strategy divides the team from within.
It is a movie about Tony and Steve. They are both likable and both right from their own points of view. The reason they fight is easily understood and neither is really the bad guy, but it is fun to watch them go at it!
This movie is filled with characters. They are weaved into the story in a way that makes sense to everyone. The Russo's have nailed the Falcon. He is ten times cooler here than in Winter Soldier. Speaking of Winter Soldier, his story is fleshed out more. We see what he was unwillingly involved in over his time being manipulated. You're left feeling for Steve and what he feels for his friend, but understanding the profound affect his actions have on Tony. Black Widow again shines and feels right at home with the boys. She is ready for a solo run. It was also good to see Hawkeye, Scarlet Witch, Vision, and War Machine given some time. We get to see signs of the comic romance between Vision and Wanda.
Spider-Man is worth the wait! Seeing him fight with and against the Avengers is just awesome! The suit looks incredible and Tom Holland is going to be a solid Peter Parker. When will we learn to stop doubting Marvel and their casting choices? Spidey and Ant-man might be there for some comic relief , but they serve a purpose and really gel with the rest of the heroes. Their next solo outings are going to be fantastic! It was Black Panther that did it for me. This character is set up beautifully and Chadwick Bosman is amazing! His fights with Winter Soldier are some of the best in the film and I think people will want to see him again.
Make no mistake, there is a lot going on here. Lots of characters. Lots of set up. Lost of action. Lots of fun. The story is serious in tone, but the movie is still fun. The comic moments work well with in the tone of the film. The movie has heart. It has a sense of loss that you feel and an excitement for what is next. Marvel has their characters figured out. The pieces all fit together. The casting is beyond perfect. The Dark Knight Trilogy is good. The major flaws of the third one keep it on this side of great. The Captain America Trilogy comes close to being the best comic book movie trilogy yet. When you see the movie, you will realize that this is fact and tough to dispute.
The hype has been live up to. It has taken things to yet another level. Well done Chris Evans, Scarlet Johanson, RDJ, and the rest. Well done Marvel. Your move DC. Try and keep up.