Movie Review: ‘Captain Marvel’

by Ian Sarmiento

From Spider-Man to Captain America, Marvel Studios has had a lot of fun recreating beloved characters while crafting memorable action scenes and big moments of comedy. “Captain Marvel” joins in the fun as audiences are introduced to the MCU’s newest hero.

“Captain Marvel” is co-directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, known for their films “Mississippi Grind” and “Sugar.” The directors took Marvel’s newest movie and made it unique to their style, making it stand out from other Marvel films. This left audiences unable to expect what is coming next. Another pleasant aspect is the banter and chemistry between Nick Fury, played by Samuel L. Jackson, and Carol Danvers (Captain Marvel,) played by Brie Larson.

And Larson does nothing but soar in this role.

Prior to her cast reveal in 2016, many had never heard of the character. Because Captain Marvel wasn’t one of the most recognizable heroes, the directors had a lot of room to try different things with her character. And they do an amazing job introducing audiences to Carol Danvers.

“Captain Marvel” follows Carol, an intergalactic Kree warrior struggling with her inability to remember her past. As the war between the Kree and the Skrulls continues, she ends up on an unfamiliar world — Earth.

The film takes place in 1995. Technology was on the rise, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Friends were on air, and RadioShack and Blockbuster have their own cameos. It’s a good time.

The cinematography is purposeful throughout. Right from the beginning, many shots of the backs or sides of the characters, as well as many distanced shots, describe the distance and lack of knowledge about Carol. As the story continues, many of the shots of Captain Marvel and Nick Fury are clearer and easier to see. This helps audiences see the connection that grows between the two as they go through this adventure together.

Overall, the story is well-presented and well-paced. It’s told almost like a puzzle, with the pieces presented in the beginning and slowly coming together as the film progresses. The audience learns about Carol’s past alongside her, and that’s what makes the character development special. It’s a little cliché, sure, but it works.

Still, many were skeptical about how the film would turn out. Many people knew it would succeed, while others only wanted to see it fail. Though many may dislike it, the movie provides scenes that are both enjoyable for people who are new to the Marvel movies and people who have been watching since “Iron Man” came out over a decade ago. It’s great to see a young Nick Fury interact with an alien and transform from a cool and collected agent to the hardcore director of S.H.I.E.L.D. he is today.

The movie gives audiences exactly what they expect — fun, excitement, and a great introduction to a new and awesome character. It’s a great movie that succeeds from beginning to end. Overall, the directors did a good job presenting a movie that people could connect with and become immersed in.

Ian Sarmiento is a sophomore Broadcasting and Digital Media Major and Arts and Entertainment Reporter for Cedars. He spends his time listening to Dear Evan Hansen and binge-watching movies and anime.