"Captain America" is a wonderful film based on the comic book hero who originated in the 1940's. That's why it was the perfect decision to set this origin story in that time period. The costumes, art direction, and music bring the World War II setting to life, as we follow the story of Steve Rogers, a 90 lb. asthmatic (thanks to the magic of CGI and some cinematic trickery), who desperately wants to enlist to fight Hitler and the Axis powers, because as he puts it, "I don't like bullies."
Chris Evans is perfectly cast as the stalwart Rogers who, when turned down as being physically unfit for service, persists in trying until he's spotted by a the head of a secret government program whose goal is to grow the perfect soldier through the injection of a secret formula. This being comic book land, it works with amazing results, and Steve emerges from the lab twice his size, heavily muscled and ready to take on the enemies of his country and the forces of evil.
Dubbed "Captain America" and fitted out with a patriotic uniform by a government notorious for misusing its greatest assets, he is at first sent on tour with a chorus of Rockette type singers and dancers for the purpose of selling War Bonds, but our hero's real opportunity soon arrives with the rise of Red Skull and the Hydra Organization which, being born out of Hitler's occult-obsessed elite, quickly becomes a greater threat than Hitler himself. We knew with the casting of Hugo Weaving and Toby Jones as Red Skull and his dastardly henchman that we were in good hands, and director Joe Johnston seems to have a firm hand on the reins as he goes on to deliver a rousing good adventure yarn full of action, humor, and even some heartache.
Tommy Lee Jones gives superb support as the Army officer in charge of Captain America and his small band of multi-cultural bravehearts, and Hayley Atwell as the British liasson who shepherds "Cap" along and becomes his staunchest defender is jaw-droppingly good in her role, while also providing visual assets and romantic interest. We know from the moment she coyly touches the super-hero's bulging pecs that true love cannot be stifled.
This is a movie highly anticipated, and we deem it well worth the wait. The visual style is amazing, the dialog snappy with just the right amount of humor, and a delightful adherence to the old-style virtues that have always given Captain America his appeal. Ranking right alongside "Thor" and "X Men: First Class" in quality, we're glad to see Hollywood is finally getting this genre just right. There is hope for the future.
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