By: Jonathan Pabico

Avengers fans, assemble! The long-awaited Avengers: Infinity War is finally here. Taking place after Thor: Ragnarok, the film sets the right tone for the story with its fun crossovers and satisfying battles. Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo (known for directing Captain America: Civil War), the film is a breathtaking instalment that bravely surpasses its predecessors in the Avengers franchise.

     The story’s action sequences are framed by striking colours and Alan Silvestri’s iconic Avengers music. Every battle features the right balance of superheroes showcasing their powers without overwhelming each scene with a plethora of characters. These thrilling showdowns are further enriched by the story’s immersive landscapes and gripping imagery that transcend into an enthralling mythos. Such bouts are only rivalled by the film’s colossal battle at Wakanda that takes epic to a new height.  

     Aside from thrilling action sequences, the movie also benefits from the monumental entrances of Captain America (Chris Evans) and Thor (Chris Hemsworth). Backed by Silvestri’s commanding soundtrack, their entrances during the film’s battles are arguably the most memorable scenes in the whole story that deeply empower the narrative and are worthy of audience applause.

     As for the genocidal despot Thanos, Josh Brolin is a perfect fit for this character. Brolin provides a foreboding performance that truly evokes his character’s cruel stature and ruthless malice. His gruff but chilling voice deeply conveys Thanos’ narcissistic supremacy that overshadows the film’s heroes. And yet, Brolin offers a complicated dimension to his role with his delivery of Thanos’ twisted philosophy on balancing the universe. Moreover, Thanos’ love for Gamora (Zoe Saldana) shockingly humanizes the character, instilling us with mixed reactions towards this seemingly heartless supervillain.

     The film’s crossovers deliver genuine comic relief, with ego clashes between characters, humorous running gags, and other forms of levity that stay with you long after the movie’s conclusion. For instance, Thor’s hilarious encounter with the Guardians of the Galaxy supplies the film with comic relief that sends you reeling from the characters’ laugh-out-loud naïveté. Chris Pratt as Peter Quill elevates the hilarity of this scene with Thor through his immature attitude and awkward banter.

     A welcome surprise is Peter Dinklage, famously known for his work as Tyrion Lannister in Game of Thrones, who ironically appears as the tallest character in the movie. However, some Marvel regulars were missing; Hawkeye and Ant-Man’s absences in this film are not fully justified.

Overall, the film provides heart-wrenching grief as some characters fall while others experience loss. The movie compensates us with intense perils and exciting action sequences that ensure strong pacing for its powerful narrative.

      Avengers: Infinity War is somewhat undermined by its open-ended resolution, leaving us with a baffling cliffhanger that prepares us for the movie’s sequel. While the movie is anti-climatic, Anthony and Joe Russo deliver a captivating film ensemble of superheroes, making it worthy of being called the most massive, action-packed entry of the Avengers franchise.