We have entered the second weekend that "Captain America: Civil War" has been showing in theaters. So, if any readers have not seen it, stop here, because some spoilers are ahead. Without any delay, here is my list of what made the movie, specifically the plot, so entertaining.
- This film blended Steve Rogers’ childhood friend, Bucky Barnes, aka The Winter Solider, with other heroes of the Marvel universe. In particular, the relationship between Sam Wilson and Bucky was crafted in a way that provided perfect comedic relief. This film had its fair share of action and in between it all, Bucky and Sam were cracking jokes. The conclusion of their fight with Spider Man was especially funny.
- Speaking of our friendly neighborhood Spider Man, played by Tom Holland, this high schooler is pushed out of his comfort zone when Tony Stark comes knocking. In this film, Spider Man is naïve, young, energetic and constantly talking. His youthful enthusiasm during the epic airport battle is funny enough to bring tears to your eyes. His humor is important to the plot because this film is missing the Tony Stark filled with sarcasm and witty one-liners. Sure there are a few in the film, but for the most part Tony is in a serious mood with feelings of guilt, and rage after discovering the truth behind his parents’ death.
- The main conflict of this film is definitely between the heroes that we have grown to love. However, the person pulling the strings behind all of the conflict is Baron Zemo, played by Daniel Brühl. This covert agent turned villain is an interesting one. He is the weakest, in terms of physical strength, of all the major characters. He is on a journey to avenge his wife and son, who both died in Sokovia during the concluding battle of Age of Ultron. This antagonist does well for the plot because he battles the all-mighty Avengers with intelligence and planning instead of brute strength. Also, he is motivated by regret, love and pain instead of the clichéd villain that chases world domination or power.
- This film embodies the great philosophical question of how people with the most power are kept in check. Although reality does not have super human beings with unnatural power, this issue of power and freedom are quite relevant. In the film, the Avengers are encouraged to sign a contract that states they will be under the “control” of the United Nations. Due to the catastrophe they cause, they cannot be allowed to roam free and act as they please. So, how much freedom do those in power really have, or deserve? Should the most powerful people be the decision makers?
- The final aspect of the plot that makes the film so intriguing is the question of where Captain America’s loyalties lie. With Bucky being thrust into the spotlight, being portrayed as a dangerous terrorist, Captain Rodgers is forced to make a crucial decision. Should he align with Tony Stark or aid his childhood friend and prevent his capture by the Avengers? Steve choses to align with Bucky. It seemed all he went through with Stark as a comrade was not equal to the memories he obtained before he went into the ice.
This was a superb movie, with special credit due to the screen writers. Although many will say the main strength was the all-star cast and number of heroes thrown onto one screen, the plot was also a crucial aspect of the film’s success. Even after numerous Marvel films, the writers found a way to keep the audience engaged, entertained and made them think a little.
