As we near the end of an era in the Marvel Cinematic Universe next month with "Avengers: Endgame", a big part of the Phase Three films has been setting up new heroes to carry on with the original Avengers who launched the MCU most likely on their way out. There's one hero in particular Marvel is hoping to lead the charge after Tony, Cap, and Thor are gone: Carol Danvers, AKA Captain Marvel. And despite those hoping to make her solo film a failure, it is anything but. If anything, it shows the future of the MCU is in good hands.
Tonally, I see the film as a perfect bridge between the Earth based heroes like the Avengers and the universe trotting of the Guardians of the Galaxy. Sure, we already saw these aspects collide in "Infinity War", but "Captain Marvel" allows for time to breathe. If anything, it's like a Phase One origin film, as it brings about this realism that helped ground the MCU when it began with an infusion of aspects of the Guardians' films, like the ship jump technology.
Having it set in 1995 also helps it really stand out compared to the rest of the MCU. I really enjoyed just how deep into the 90's they went, from the aesthetics, fashion, music, and references, including how slow computers were back then (man, I do not miss those days). The only other period piece we've had is the first Captain America film, and the Agent Carter series that spun off. I wouldn't mind if Marvel did more films like that in the future.
Brie Larson does a good job as Carol Danvers and the journey her character goes through. She's brave, tough, caring, and funny, so those who thought her performance wouldn't have much range based on the trailers should no longer worry. I see a lot of similarities between her story and that of Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman. Her whole life, people have been underestimating her and/or not even giving her a chance, and it leads to a very satisfying climax where she shines and her true power is showcased; but above all, they both make it clear they won't back down and never give up in the face of adversity. Unlike Wonder Woman though, Carol's journey is more complex with her memories impaired, with her true potential not coming through until she pieces her life together as both a human and a Kree, allowing her to become the hero she's meant to be. The film does take some liberties with her origin that will probably upset comic purists, but really work within the context of the MCU. And without spoiling much, viewers will understand just why and how Carol will be able to go toe-to-toe with a fully assembled Infinity Gauntlet wielding Thanos in "Endgame".
Samuel Jackson returns as Nick Fury, and first off, the de-aging technology is once again on point. It's one thing to use it for flashback scenes like the Ant-Man movies, but being able to keep it up for a whole film without it looking weird is amazing. Having a younger Fury is also fun to watch, seeing him be so green in his first encounter with extraordinary people compared to the hardened spy who helped form the Avengers. Plus, I love the back and forth he and Larson have. Since the characters have some similar backgrounds, their interaction feels natural.
Clark Gregg also makes his return to the films as Phil Coulson, where he's shown as a new agent just starting out. What I love about his inclusion is that we see the bond he and Fury form that carries into the present day MCU. Also, while I know it's not possible, seeing the two together as such young agents makes me want to see the two in a buddy cop series.
As most will probably say, Goose the cat is a surprisingly fun addition to the film. As a cat owner and lover myself, I really enjoyed Goose's interaction with the characters and his own funny moments. And for those who unfortunately had the twist in the character spoiled beforehand, even when it was revealed, it was still a surprising moment that comes out of nowhere, and it adds a new aspect to have fun with.
The films touches upon the Kree-Skrull War from the comics. The Kree remain the same as in the comics and what we've seen so far in the MCU. Our main Kree character is Von-Rogg, played by Jude Law. He acts as Carol's mentor, hoping to instill in her the core Kree beliefs that he embodies. We also have the MCU debut of the Skrulls. First off, the make-up and costumes are great and their shapeshifting effects are really cool, being pretty detailed during the transformations. They do make a major change to the Skrulls though, and while I won't spoil it here, I don't think purists will like it. But damn it, it's another change that they make work. Going off that, the main Skrull character Talos, played by Ben Mendelsohn, is much different than I expected. Considering Mendelsohn has played villainous roles before in "Dark Knight Rises" and "Rogue One", it's kind of interesting to see him as a character that has a serious mission, but also has heart and wit to him.
Overall, "Captain Marvel" is as fun and enjoyable as other MCU origin films, particularly Phase One, adhering to the formula set by other Marvel films while also doing enough to help it stand out. It gives us the last stop on the road to "Endgame" and I can't wait to see Carol interact with the Avengers and more of her own adventures in the future.
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