Captain America: The First Avenger

I don't get out to the movies often as of late, but somehow I managed to go see Green Lantern and now Captain America this summer. Cap was my first 3D movie too, unless you count Nightmare Before Christmas when that was released in 3D awhile back. They were both done in post, so I'll allow it. I have to say, I'm not really sold on the technology. It annoys me to wear glasses over glasses and I don't really need to see scenes of Steve Rogers doing push ups in 3D. I'd rather they did what some of the Harry Potters did in IMAX and just have you put them on for certain scenes. Might be easier on the eyes too.

But I digress.

I thought Captain America was well done. It really captured the feel of the comic and also the look of the old serials, which isn't a surprise and Joe Johnston, the director, was also responsible for The Rocketeer, which also captured the 40s well. If you're not familiar with the story, it's basically about how a young man who isn't a prime physical specimen but has a good heart becomes a super soldier after scientific experiments. As far as origins go, it's simple, but they draw it out rather long and while it is done well, I think it detracts from what could have been more action later on.

The cast is great. I think Evans is a fair Captain America. He does well with the material and I'm a fan, but I think his look is a little off and someone like John Barrowman might have a more Captain America-ish look. Tommy Lee Jones is great as his commanding officer and the love interest in the movie, whose name I can't be arsed to look up, is pretty and charming and kicks some tail. I think the real scene stealer is Hugo Weaving as the Red Skull. He takes what could have been someone who just stands around laughing maniacally and gives him some real depth and determination in his quest to conquer the world.

It's a fun flick, though I'd see it in 2D instead, unless you're a fan of 3D, in which case do whatever you like. Personally, I hate paying more for it and then they ask me to recycle my glasses afterward. Fuck that noise. I paid for them. They be mine and are coming home with me.

Anyhow, for a fun popcorn movie this summer with superheroes, check out Green Lantern. If you can't find that, Captain America will do you just fine.