The end has come. After 21 films, the “Infinity Saga” of the Marvel Cinematic Universe has finally come to a close. “Avengers: Infinity War” left our squad of supers in utter despair as the intergalactic despot Thanos (Josh Brolin, “Sicario: Day of the Soldado”) decimated half of all life in the universe. It was an ending that resulted in many of our favorite heroes reduced to piles of ash as audiences sat in stunned silence. How could the Avengers (the remaining Avengers anyway) defeat this foe that has proven to be nigh invulnerable? Not only does “Avengers: Endgame” answer that inquiry, but it is also one of the MCU’s finest outings that should leave every Marvel fan satisfied.
The trailers for “Avengers: Endgame” were intentionally vague, this review will be as well, as the majority of the fun comes from going in with a blank slate. The tone of “Avengers: Endgame” is more somber and melancholy than previous entries, as we find the remaining Avengers trying to pick up the pieces in a shattered world. It is a situation that is definitely dire, and “Avengers: Endgame” pulls no punches in presenting a world devoid of joy and certainty. Think of the HBO show “The Leftovers” but with a firm explanation for the disappearance of people.
As always, the performances here are solid. Chris Evans (“Superpower Dogs”), Robert Downey Jr. (“Avengers: Infinity War”), Chris Hemsworth (“Bad Times at the El Royale”), Mark Ruffalo (“Avengers: Infinity War”), Scarlett Johansson (“Isle of Dogs”) and Don Cheadle (“Avengers: Infinity War”) have become so synonymous with their characters that they themselves are totally invested in the roles they play. Seeing our favorite superheroes work together is a thing of sheer beauty as one of the best aspects of these films is the interactions and dynamics shared between team members. “Avengers: Endgame” flourishing in these moments.
The digital effects of “Endgame” should also be praised. Very much like “Infinity War,” the CGI found in the depths of “Endgame” are top notch from the whiz of a spaceship to the beads of sweat on Thanos’ forehead. It is truly a marvel to behold and complements the direction of the Russo brothers (“Avengers: Infinity War”).
“Endgame” is not without its faults. These faults cannot be explained in great detail for risk of spoiling key points in the story, but it can be said the plot of “Endgame” leads to numerous coincidences and plot holes. These are used to further the plot and lead to the most epic finale in superhero film history, but flaws are flaws.
In the end, “Avengers: Endgame” is the most satisfying film in the MCU canon thus far. After a build-up of 10 years, the payoff is indeed worth the price of admission, as Marvel Studios concocts a resolution that offers modes of resonance and vindication. Marvel fans do not need a recommendation on this one as they will see it anyway but “Endgame” is the best superhero film of the year so far.
