After years of build up (it was first hinted at in 2012 with the first Avengers film) the mad titan Thanos is finally taking center stage as the primary antagonist of Avengers: Infinity War, a film which boasts the largest cast and production cost out of all Marvel’s films. Prior to seeing this film, I have to admit that I worried that it would be a mess due to the sheer magnitude of what this film would be covering (there were about 40 major characters after all). But thankfully directors Anthony Russo and Joe Russo pulled off what Justice League couldn’t, making a film that properly manages it’s characters while having a story that keeps the viewer entertained for the duration of the (almost 3 hour long) film. It also has a more somber tone that sets itself apart from previous MCU films, which is ultimately what made me decide that this was a slightly better movie (in my opinion) than the recent Black Panther.

The film adapts the Infinity Gauntlet storyline that was written by Jim Starlin in 1991, and it has some noticeable deviations from the original story, the most notable of which being Thanos’ character and motivations. In the comic Thanos was a cruel psychopath obsessed with gaining the affection of Death (who is the living embodiment of Death), he does this by ending the lives of others as an offering to her (and it serves as his primary motivation for getting the Infinity Stones). The film’s take on Thanos (played by Josh Brolin) is surprisingly more sympathetic, and his motivation for obtaining the stones is to “bring balance to the universe”. Thankfully, Thanos along with the rest of the ensemble cast (which includes both the Avengers and Guardians of the Galaxy teams) do great in their roles and are really entertaining (everyone has a moment to shine). But the standout performance comes from Tom Holland’s portrayal of Spider-Man, who steals the show at the film’s end.

So in conclusion, I have to agree that the millions spent to produce Infinity War was indeed money well spent. It’s a great time that didn’t disappoint, I’d suggest going to see it soon so that you don’t get spoiled.

Score: 9/10

Pros:

• The ending
• Every character gets a moment to shine
• Visual effects (CGI is a lot better than what was in Black Panther)
• It is the most comic book like film I have ever watched

Cons:

• It’s a bit long
• Some moments that break the tone
• Minor plot holes