Movie Monday: The Avengers

Yes, I know all of you were holding off on seeing The Avengers until you knew whether I approved. I do. I haven't smiled so much during a movie in ages. Any time I was aware of my face, there was a grin plastered on it. And, as I told my aunt, I think most children can handle the film despite the PG-13 rating. There's one scene that's distressing for adults, much less children, but it could be a good talking point. (It is also, perhaps, the most Joss Whedon-y scene in a movie that has his fingerprints all over it.)

One of the true strengths of The Avengers is how well things are balanced.  It feels like a Marvel Cinematic Universe Film, but there's still signs of the director's artistry.  The characters share the screen time and no one feels unnecessary.  (Hawkeye gets less character development, but he is still necessary to the movie.)

The biggest, and most pleasant, surprise was Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow/Natasha Romanoff.  She's a popular actress that I've never really gotten.  But she nailed every scene she was in, and she got some important scenes.  She's pretty much the best superhero in a movie full of them.

But really, the casting is fantastic.  It's hard to imagine anyone else in these roles.  The actors, even the ones as recognizable as Samuel L. Jackson, disappear into the characters.  (And Gwyneth Paltrow's short scenes as Pepper Potts are perfection.)

There's nothing I can say, likely, that will change your opinion of this film.  But just writing about it makes me want to go see it again.  (Hey, at my local theater Tuesdays are half-off ticket day . . .)