Avengers: Age of Ultron

Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
Director: Joss Whedon
Actors: Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth

Synopsis: The Avengers assemble once more to bring to task a renegade AI programme: Ultron.

Review: The return of the Avengers crew, though bringing little new to the table after the 2012 series opener, Avengers Assemble, is an amiable enough hokum diversion for two or so hours. More than anything, it’s a chance to enjoy a smorgasbord of Hollywood pros having evident fun with their superhero detour. The film certainly wears its graphic novel pretensions lightly.

The opening in media res skit is a clever way to introduce all the characters – with associated ‘skills’ and repartee –  in one brisk action sequence. To sound a contrary note though, one thing that strikes me about all these witticisms and banter is that it begs the question if the project is somewhat self-defeating when arguably its best feature is its proclivity to take the piss out of itself. And certainly the least interesting part in these films is the obligatory techno exposition we’ve seen from scores of other superhero films.

Arguably the best section of the whole film is the midway ‘hideout’ detour at Hawkeye’s house. It slows the action right down and there are some wry little character digressions, with the actors actually getting the chance to show a touch of range. Pushing the film even further down this route – and away from the relentless treadmill of action sequences – would be the best remedy to ensure the endurance and novelty of the Avengers series for some time to come.

Incidentally, special shout out for whoever wrote and green-lighted the sarcastic ‘hide the zucchini” Iron Man comment to Black Widow. Pleasing to see that sneaked into an otherwise mainstream family picture.  (May 2017)