*****
Following on directly from the cataclysmic events of Infinity War, Endgame finds our remaining heroes in a state of despair and depression. Setting aside their differences and disregarding the odds, the Avengers decide to reunite and undo Thanos' deeds.
From the opening scene, directors Anthony and Joe Russo make it very clear that Endgame will be a wholly different experience to Infinity War. Whilst the latter was all spectacle, frivolity (apart from that one scene) and a sort of amazement at getting so many of these huge characters together in one space, the former has a far more sombre and reflective heart. It doesn't shy away from the grim conclusion of Infinity War nor trivialise it - the remaining Avengers haven't walked away unchanged, with one turning to alcoholism, one to group therapy and another desperately trying to keep team motivated and together. The first act is indeed a contemplative piece.
With the coming of the second act, our heroes uncover a possible way to reverse Thanos' actions. For me, I felt that the method used (I'm keen not to describe it or mention is specifically as I didn't know this was going to be the story device) was a little lazy. However, this plot mechanism did allow for a significant amount of nostalgia - a love letter to the previous twenty one films, if you will - and screenwriters Christoper Markus and Stephen McFeely clearly acknowledged the sci-fi-tastic element, including a number of self-depreciating jokes. As we progress into the final section - and the inevitable spectacle that concludes all Marvel films - there are numerous emotive moments: tear-jerking lines of dialogue; fist-pumping sequences; and the occasional gasp as long-hinted developments are realised. It's a cathartic conclusion, and one that's unlikely to leave a dry eye in the auditorium.
It's certainly been a long journey we've been on with these characters. Even if you haven't seen all the films (although I think that you probably couldn't enjoy Endgame nor appreciate the nostalgia without having seen the majority), there's certainly a lot of affection for them, especially the 'original' team. Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man has been the gift that keeps on giving. From weapons-seller to battle-weary, he's gifted the character with a believable, heartfelt arc, and it's hard to imagine anyone else in that role. Scarlet Johansson's Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow development has been similarly excellent. Bringing depth to a role that started out as being very underwritten, Black Widow's role within the Avengers has been cemented, largely thanks to Johansson's sensitive understanding and portrayal of the character. Thor (Chris Hemsworth) has been on an impressive arc too, and Endgame gives Chris Hemsworth a chance to demonstrate both his acting chops and the growth that his character has been through. And although Chris Evans' Captain America has always irritated me, can you think of someone else in that role?
At just over three hours, Avengers: Endgame is certainly not a short viewing experience, but it's to the credit of all involved that at no point did I start to notice the length of time I'd been sitting in the cinema. Engaging, emotive and endlessly entertaining, Avengers: Endgame is far from being one of the greatest films ever made, but as a conclusion to this series of Avengers films, it offers a poignant ending with plenty to enjoy - once the tears have dried, of course!
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