By Robin E. Simmons
CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR
Will we ever tire of the endless seemingly stream od big budget, superhero smack downs? Clearly they are the cinematic flavor of the day. I for one would love to see a big action movie in which no one wears a cape. Is that even a viable and profitable option for movie studios these days? Apparently not. The opening grosses of “Civil War” were the fifth biggest in history! What is it about these modern mythic gods duking it out on the big screen (preferably in 3D) that’s so enthralling? Does it reflect a kind of shared fascination with ancient, almost religious, themes of good and evil at war with all the inherent supernatural elements intact? Maybe the attraction is that humanity itself is often at stake. Granted we live in a time of apocalyptic concerns, but there’s no profound religious analogy or philosophy that I am aware of that any of these superhero movies are espousing that makes these films more relevant in the real world. It’s been noted before that Superman is a kind of stand-in for a Christ figure. And Captain America represents (or could represent) the best, noblest ideals of America’s role in the conflict in the real world. Will the Cap ever take on ISIS? We can only hope.
What I hear most often from adult movies fans is: “I’ve never been much of a comic book reader so can I still enjoy these films without knowing the back story or seeing the previous iterations? My answer is always an enthusiastic yes, especially for “Civil War.” If you love the craft of film art, here is a terrific display of everything that makes a movie work. The Russo brothers have hit it out of the park. And for died-in-the-wool comic book fans the rewards are especially satisfying — not only for the superb visceral action but for the drama as well.
In this one, there’s a demand for accountability when the actions of the Avengers lead to severe collateral damage. The team is deeply divided. Captain America (Chris Evans) believes superheroes should remain free to defend humanity without government interference. Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.) sharply disagrees and supports government oversight. The debate escalates into an all-out feud that includes Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) who are now forced to pick sides!
In my opinion, this is among the better Marvel movies so far. In fact, it just might be the best. The crisp Imax 3D projection system is an incredible technological achievement, especially on a HUGE SCREEN! And of course the massive multi-track surround sound adds immensely to the fabulous immersive experience. No question that Chris Evans is a perfect Cap. Trust me, you’ll enjoy this one no matter how much you know about the back-story. Some fun surprises in it too, things not hinted at or spoiled in the trailer.
This fun spectacle about superheroes grappling with deception and dealing with the consequences of their actions has great action set pieces and a solid story. It hits all the right notes for the most part. A big plus is seeing Ant-Man (Pail Rudd), Spider-Man (Tom Holland), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), War Machine (Don Cheadle) and Black Panther in the mix. The fanboy in me doesn’t want to admit it, but “Civil War” far better than “BvS.” What’s really at stake here is the corporate showdown between Disney’s Marvel franchise and Warner Bros DC team. Now playing.
New for the home theater:
DEVIL IN A BLUE DRESS (1995)
Writer director Carl Franklin’s rich, moody atmospheric American pulp noir compels with its tough moral center. Denzel Washington’s East Rawlins is a laid off factory worker turned private eye in post-World War II Los Angeles who finds himself in a world of trouble after accepting what at first seems to be a relatively simple assignment to find a white woman (Jennifer Beals) thought to be hiding out in the black juke joint along L.A.’s Central Avenue. Pretty soon, as Easy uncovers a tar pit of corruption, people are turning up dead. The terrific supporting cast includes Tom Sizemore, Don Cheadle, Maury Chaykin, Terry Kinney and Albert Hall. Recommended. Twilight Time Movies. Blu-ray.
MYSTERIOUS ISLAND (1961)
Jules Verne’s sequel to his own “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea” is brought to the screen in spectacular fashion by director Cy Endfield and special effects master Ray Harryhausen. They weave the adventure-packed tale of a motley crew of Civil War escapees and shipwreck victims cast away on a remote Pacific isle. There they encounter the redoubtable mad genius Captain Nemo (Herbert Lom), and the startling products of his crazed scientific experiments: gigantic creatures of every description, all crafted with that special brand of Harryhausen magic. This pristine transfer features Bernard Herrmannn’s superlative score on an isolated track. Twilight Time Movies (limited edition of 3,000 units). Blu-ray. Recommended.
A PRAYER FOR THE DYING
Mike Hodges directs this engaging screen adaptation of the best-selling thriller by Jack Higgins. The story focuses on a former IRA terrorist (Mickey Rourke) forced into killing a mobster in order to walk away from a lifetime of violence. Bob Hoskins co-stars as the priest who may offer him an opportunity for redemption. Alan Bates is a flamboyant London crime lord who’d had his fill with both the IRA and the man of God. Recommended. Twilight Time Movies. Blu-ray.
Comments or questions? Robinesimmons@aol.com
