Captain Marvel

[muddymooose]

"Captain Marvel" continues the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) winning streak after 21 films. I thought it had a few minor issues but overall it was fun and interesting with some surprises. The story arc of Carol Danvers is non-linear but it is executed well. The politics of the Kree-Skrull conflict are more nuanced than I expected. It was cool to see Korath and Ronan again after "Guardians of the Galaxy." Minn-Erva is the new Boba Fett in that she is a mysterious badass that is under-utilized. Also the cat is awesome and not just because it's cute.

7/10...at least on par with the "average" great MCU movie.

The first mid-credit scene is a tie-in to "Avengers: Endgame."

There were two memorable tributes to Stan Lee that I loved. There were also a couple nods to "The Right Stuff."

 

[swatkat]

Goose FTW

 

[Zeus-cat]

If you don't know anything about these characters is it worth seeing? I enjoyed Wonder Woman as it had enough of a backstory that I understood the motivation of the character. Will that be the same with this movie?

 

[muddymooose]

If you don't know anything about these characters is it worth seeing? I enjoyed Wonder Woman as it had enough of a backstory that I understood the motivation of the character. Will that be the same with this movie?

I think it would work fine as a standalone movie. My wife has only seen a handful of MCU movies and she liked it. That said, the more familiar a viewer is with the MCU, the more they'll understand some of the connections/references/callbacks etc.

 

[jimzcatz]

I just can't get behind the fact Capt Marvel is a girl!

 

[PhlAsh]

I was amused to see the character of Monica Rambeau appear in the first trailer. Monica was (a different) Captain Marvel throughout the mid-80s.

To me, the character they refer to as Shazam (the name of the comic and the Wizard, not the character) will always be the one true Captain Marvel.

 

[muddymooose]

I just can't get behind the fact Capt Marvel is a girl!

There have been nearly a dozen "Captain Marvels" since the 1930s. They decided to go with the 2012 version since it was popular and fit the MCU universe.

I think DC had the first "Captain Marvel" but had to rename him "Shazam" because of IP conflicts with Marvel Comics in the 1950s.

The best thing about the MCU is they can take decades of comic book history and streamline it for mass consumption, getting rid of hokey and weird stuff and making the new interpretation believable and lovable by a wide audience.

 

[swatkat]

For those that have not rad the backstory, etc. like myself, I found the first 20 mins or so a bit confusing, but it picks up and does well after that.

 

[muddymooose]

For those that have not rad the backstory, etc. like myself, I found the first 20 mins or so a bit confusing, but it picks up and does well after that.

I could see that. Although I was kind of surprised that my wife, who barely follows this stuff at all, seemed to have no problem following it.

 

[Scott_650]

We’ll definitely see it - thought about going today but there’s other things on the agenda. The most prevalent criticism I’ve read is that it suffers a bit from “DC” syndrome - trying to include too much in one movie: origin story, lead-in to End Game, groundwork for the next round of MCU movies. So much that Carol Danvers character tends to get a little lost in her own movie. But even an average MCU movie (looking at you Thor: The Dark World, Iron Man 2) is entertaining and worth at least a matinee ticket.

 

[neil_w]

Haven't seen this yet, hope to (somehow) before the next Avengers, since I gather Captain Marvel will play a role there.

For those who have seen it: do they explain why she was completely MIA during all the Infinity War happenings? Spoiler-free answer, please.

 

[Nytrunner]

She had business elsewhere

 

[Bryan S Snyder]

I just saw a review that said it was a 4/10 at best, huge plot holes, poorly written, poor continuity etc. etc. They said it felt rushed and full of SJW msgs. In short another ghost busters 3/SOLO movie.

 

[dhbarr]

I just saw a review that said it was a 4/10 at best, huge plot holes, poorly written, poor continuity etc. etc. They said it felt rushed and full of SJW msgs. In short another ghost busters 3/SOLO movie.

If you pick the very worst review of any movie, that'll happen. I hear Brie Larson is a bit wooden, other than that it's supposed to be pretty standard.

 

[Bryan S Snyder]

If you pick the very worst review of any movie, that'll happen. I hear Brie Larson is a bit wooden, other than that it's supposed to be pretty standard.

Problem is, that's not the only one like that. According to the vast majority, it's mediocre, at best. The consensus is that it wasn't written to compliment the series or move the story forward, but with a specific agenda in mind, aside from making money. I'm "meh" on superhero movies so it's no loss to me. Your mileage may vary.

 

[dhbarr]

Problem is, that's not the only one like that. According to the vast majority, it's mediocre, at best. The consensus is that it wasn't written to compliment the series or move the story forward, but with a specific agenda in mind, aside from making money. I'm "meh" on superhero movies so it's no loss to me. Your mileage may vary.

Unless you're getting your reviews from 4chan, there's approx. two bad reviews, a bunch of meh, and a few positive reviews. You picked the one that confirmed your predetermined bias, of which you may or may not have been aware.

I suppose you haven't seen the movie yourself and never planned to. Admittedly that's a guess on my part. I won't have an opinion for myself until Tuesday or so.

 

[Rex R]

a brief look with google turns up an average review rating of 72% approval (would have been higher if not for the 1st 20 minutes).
Rex

 

[Zeus-cat]

Rotten Tomatoes gives it an 80% positive from critics, but only 57% from audiences. But I read that it was under attack by a lot of (presumably fake) negative reviews even before it opened. I don't know why people do stuff like that. If this is a genre you like why trash a movie unseen or one that you're not interested in? Studios make movies to make money. If you trash something just because it isn't what you envisioned they may not make a movie you want to see.

 

[neil_w]

Rotten Tomatoes gives it an 80% positive from critics, but only 57% from audiences. But I read that it was under attack by a lot of (presumably fake) negative reviews even before it opened. I don't know why people do stuff like that. If this is a genre you like why trash a movie unseen or one that you're not interested in? Studios make movies to make money. If you trash something just because it isn't what you envisioned they may not make a movie you want to see.

Yeah, it has been review-bombed by those objecting to "SJW messaging" (any review that uses the term SJW can be safely ignored IMHO) and saying "Brie Larson hates white men" because of a comment she made. All of this is of course stupid nonsense. Unfortunately audience ratings can no longer be trusted to mean anything. Why do people do this? I don't know, standard "they have no life" reasons apply I guess?

This article gives good overview of the issue: https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/7/1...el-bombing-changes-rotten-tomatoes-letterboxd

 

[Rex R]

I was not too keen on guardians of the galaxy comic book...but was still willing to try the movie(from the local library), still didn't care for them, the writers/cast must have managed to get the movie to feel like the comic book(for me). the books have had gaps in explaining captain marvel's(both male and female)back story. marvel tends to do that when characters don't have their own book(secondary/supporting role) it allows flexibility in abilities and moving the story forward.
Rex

 

[muddymooose]

I was not too keen on guardians of the galaxy comic book...but was still willing to try the movie(from the local library), still didn't care for them, the writers/cast must have managed to get the movie to feel like the comic book(for me). the books have had gaps in explaining captain marvel's(both male and female)back story. marvel tends to do that when characters don't have their own book(secondary/supporting role) it allows flexibility in abilities and moving the story forward.
Rex

I never followed Guardians of the Galaxy growing up, and always thought most of the "cosmic" stuff was silly. Back in 2013 when I heard a Guardians movie was coming out, I thought for sure that would be the end of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. I was pleasantly surprised to be blown away by that film, and it was a critical and box-office hit. When Marvel Studios showed that they could make a talking tree and a raccoon with a gun fetish into a legit action/comedy duo, I realized they could do anything.

Captain Marvel is kind of a continuation of that for me. As a "cosmic" thing I never really followed those stories as a kid, but this movie again showed that it can all be done well, get critical acclaim (80% on Rotten Tomatoes), get viewer acclaim (A on CinemaScore), and rake in huge box office returns (It's on track to do $150 million in the US for its opening weekend...$450 million globally).

So in spite of mostly ignoring cosmic stuff in Marvel comics as a kid, I now think that's some of the best material they can mine moving forward. The potential for Captain Marvel sequels to be set in the 1995-present window gives a great opportunity to flesh out a lot of the cosmic stuff before it inevitably enters the main continuity moving forward. They could spend several movies exploring Ronan, Korath, Talos, the Kree-Skrull conflict, Starforce, Xandar, Nova Corps, Knowhere, The Collector, Ego, etc. Huge potential.

 

[Scott_650]

I just saw a review that said it was a 4/10 at best, huge plot holes, poorly written, poor continuity etc. etc. They said it felt rushed and full of SJW msgs. In short another ghost busters 3/SOLO movie.

Still don’t get the intensity of the negative reactions to Solo. Was it the Han Solo movie I’d make? Probably not, but it was an enjoyable time at the movies for us - and we bought the Blu-ray and enjoyed it at home too. Admittedly I’m not a Star Wars true believer (did see the original back in 77 before it was an “Episode” ) but wow, the reaction seemed a bit disproportionate.

As for the last Ghostbusters movie...it simply wasn’t that funny. Which is as deadly a sin as a comedy can commit. When your peripheral “Janine” character played by a Hemsworth is the funniest thing in your Ghostbusters movie you don’t have a SJ problem, you have a lack of comedy problem.

I’m not a Brie Larson fan - don’t know that I can pick her out of a lineup or name a movie she’s in - and have never read any Captain Marvel comics (though I do remember the live action tv show based on the DC version - rather enjoyed the Isis half of the show more, oddly enough). But since I’ve seen every MCU movie except the Hulks I’ll see this one too. And probably have an entertaining couple hours at the theater which is fine.

 

[Bryan S Snyder]

I'm very aware of my leanings and tendencies. Your insinuation that I cherry picked reviews to fit my narrative is rather insulting as it suggests I'm reaching to see something that isn't there. It is, and has been celebrated in the media for it, it's just up to if you are ok with it or not.

I prefer my movies and those in them, not attempt to be preachy lecturing when I'm paying money to see something. I remember the good ol days when you didn't know the political leanings of hollywood celebs. I want to be entertained, not talked down to by the movie. Even the "star" Larson was pissing on certain demographics during the press tours for the movie. SMART!

Also, there were far more than 2 poor reviews of the movie. There is more than 1 prominent ratings site. Rotten Tomatoes supposedly "LOST", IIRC, 50,000 reviews of the movie. How....convenient. Then there are the "scores" that individual publications and sites give it. Remember to take into account unspoken PAY for PLAY "agreements" for reviews ... Want good early access to movies and stars? BE GENTLE in reviews. Some were decent, most were middle ground to poor. Some outlets can afford to be honest because their reviews are so widespread they will always get good access, sometimes just with a different reviewer if the last hammered a movie. Remeber, this is DISNEY were're talking about...the 800lb gorilla that plays by it's own rules.

Below are some vids chronicling the CM saga.







I will NOT be seeing this movie as there are many indications it would not be worth the matinée price much less the full price and that I'm not a really big fan of super hero movies (More of a Comedy or Action kinda guy)... aside from the last batman movie and DeadPool. It has been echoed several times that DC's Wonderwoman was a FAR better female led superhero movie with "feminist" undertones", not only for the acting and story, but because it wasn't in your face as such. Your mileage may very.

Unless you're getting your reviews from 4chan, there's approx. two bad reviews, a bunch of meh, and a few positive reviews. You picked the one that confirmed your predetermined bias, of which you may or may not have been aware.

I suppose you haven't seen the movie yourself and never planned to. Admittedly that's a guess on my part. I won't have an opinion for myself until Tuesday or so.
View attachment 376573

Still don’t get the intensity of the negative reactions to Solo. Was it the Han Solo movie I’d make? Probably not, but it was an enjoyable time at the movies for us - and we bought the Blu-ray and enjoyed it at home too. Admittedly I’m not a Star Wars true believer (did see the original back in 77 before it was an “Episode” ) but wow, the reaction seemed a bit disproportionate.

I really am not sure how to describe my disappointment in the Star Wars franchise...It seemed like every movie they made after the original 3 just sucked harder.... Personally, in my mind, there are no more after those 3.

As for the last Ghostbusters movie...it simply wasn’t that funny. Which is as deadly a sin as a comedy can commit. When your peripheral “Janine” character played by a Hemsworth is the funniest thing in your Ghostbusters movie you don’t have a SJ problem, you have a lack of comedy problem.

Nailed it Helmsworth was the best part of the movie.

I’m not a Brie Larson fan -

Until this movie, I'd never even heard of her.

Unfortunately audience ratings can no longer be trusted to mean anything. Why do people do this? I don't know, standard "they have no life" reasons apply I guess?

MAYBE.....they were giving their honest review of a movie that has other usually "safe" reviewers saying its not so good? Out of the realm of possibility? Apparently not...In the first couple of minutes, this vid shows the review scores from some prominent outlets. Many, not so great. How can that be?

This article gives good overview of the issue: https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/7/1...el-bombing-changes-rotten-tomatoes-letterboxd

Relying on "The Verge" to give an objective, unbiased observation or review is adorable. That's like asking a REAL Nazi (Not a made up to fit a narrative, SJW "Nazi") to review Anne Franks diary and expecting an objective outcome.

"Gaming computer build FAIL done by "The Verge" that was pilloried by people who have ACTUALLY built computers. They put out this dumpster fire as a "How to". It was SO badly done, "The Verge" pulled it. They are looked to for opinion and reviews on TECH but they cant build a PC without numerous mistakes? Lol.



But alas, not my money spent to watch it or time used to view it, so not my problem. I think my opinion is clear and needs no further expounding.

 

[Peartree]

What I find odd, is that according to surveys, the people who are seeing the movie are not giving it high ratings. But typically, people go to see movies that their friends have said are good. I have yet to see a friend online post that this movie was anything but terrific and the box office returns would seem to indicate that my experience is far from unique. I'm hoping to see it this coming weekend or some evening that I don't have meetings to go to.

Oh, and it's probably worth noting that I generally see one or two movies in a year if I see any at all.

 

[neil_w]

I think my opinion is clear and needs no further expounding.

It certainly is, and it certainly doesn't.

What I find odd, is that according to surveys, the people who are seeing the movie are not giving it high ratings. But typically, people go to see movies that their friends have said are good. I have yet to see a friend online post that this movie was anything but terrific and the box office returns would seem to indicate that my experience is far from unique.

What surveys? As previously discussed, open review sites are not a reliable indicator for this movie due to review bombing. Personal recommendations from friends are a better indicator, along with choose-your-favorite-movie-reviewer(s). Judging for yourself is what ultimately matters, provided that you are sufficiently interested in the movie to invest $10 and a couple hours of your time.

I'll be seeing this on Friday. My expectation going in is for a decent Marvel movie, somewhere near middle-of-the-pack, which is still two hours of good entertainment. As much as anything, I want to see this for necessary background going into Avengers: Endgame next month or whenever.

 

[Rockyt]

This helps explain the whole 'Shazaam' versus 'Captain Marvel' Thing



And the next person to reference 'Kazam' gets 30 days of broken WiFi connections.

 

[Nytrunner]

I have yet to see a friend online post that this movie was anything but terrific

Oop, careful John, sounds like you're surrounded by feminist SJWs!


In seriousness, I watched it. Entertaining? Yes! Life changer? not more or less than any other Marvel/DC movie. It fills out the narrative and gives a peak into another aspect of whats going on in the story backdrop.
Definitely interested how they'll tie her in to Endgame.

 

[Rex R]

beware of trollish behavior.
Rex

 

[georgegassaway]

Here's a crazy addition to this thread, from a RARE perspective.

I SAW IT last night.


IT WAS GREAT.


And now we return to people who did not see it, or invented excuses not to, to continue posting CRAP.

 

[Rockyt]

careful what you wish for...