New additions highlight incredible story in ‘Captain America: Civil War’

Captain America: Civil War L to R: Captain America/Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) and Iron Man/Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.)

Jake Szasz, Staff Reporter

The beginning of Phase 3 in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has arrived. “Captain America: Civil War,” is here.

After the new Avengers cause another event resulting in civilian casualties on foreign soil, the United Nations decides to take action. They propose to take control and be responsible for the Avengers’ actions in the future. The title hero, Captain America, believes in the freedom to act and protect when he feels necessary, instead of the ever-changing political climate, while Iron Man believes government oversight will keep the team from causing more pain and trouble. This leads to a division between the team that may be the end of the Avengers as we know them.

This movie has a dark tone that past elements in the MCU lack, but with a splash of Marvel magic that includes humor in all the right places. It’s a Marvel comic book fan’s dream come true on a screen. It has incredibly choreographed action sequences and clear-cut character motivation for each member of the Avengers. It will certainly be hard to pick a side because the perspectives are so well-developed. As a whole, this movie is a fantastic experience.

In this movie we are introduced to some fun new characters. Going into this, the one character that everyone seems to be talking about is Spiderman. Tom Holland as our friendly neighborhood Spiderman is a witty, clever and comical addition to this movie. He is Peter Parker. His point-of-view in the movie is unlike anyone else’s we’ve seen in the MCU. For that reason, he stands out in a very good way. Another new addition that leaves a lasting impression is Black Panther. You can’t get enough of Chadwick Boseman in this role.

In a Captain America movie, one should probably comment on Captain America. Chris Evans wasn’t exactly groundbreaking in this role. There isn’t much in the form of character development from him, but you will learn more about why he acts the way he does in depth. Robert Downey Jr.’s performance as Iron Man, however, was more powerful. His development is a lot more interesting. You will see a side of Tony Stark that you’ve never seen before. The comedic highlights mostly come from Spiderman and Ant Man, with even a few funny moments between Falcon and Winter Soldier. The rest of the Avengers also did an incredible job. The performances in this movie surpass those in past MCU movies.

One thing that hasn’t been mentioned yet is the villain. That would be Helmut Zemo. Marvel has a knack for not making very good villains. One would say this is just another addition to the list. He has great moments in the movie and matches the dark tone very well, but his character just feels like an extra element added to the story that wasn’t necessarily needed. Daniel Brühl was perfect for this role, though.

Before seeing this movie, one should be warned that this is the end of a trilogy of Captain America movies, as well as an extension of the Avengers movies. Going in cold and not seeing, or knowing, anything that occurs in the MCU may hurt the overall experience. “Avengers: Age of Ultron” as well as “Captain America: Winter Soldier” should be seen before going to this movie. If possible, also add in “Captain America: The First Avenger.” This movie is certainly a lot to take in when you leave the theater, but in the end you will look back on the entertainment this film provides. The Russo Brothers have done it again, directing another great comic book movie. “Captain America: Civil War” is now in theaters.

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