Have you ever been too something to do what you really wanted to do? Too skinny to be an athlete. Too fat to be a professional hula hoop artist. Too sexy for shorts. You may know how it feels to be Captain America, a hero that was labeled too unfit to serve and protect his country. While he prevailed at proving all the doubters wrong, his film, Captain America: The First Avenger, proved to be more fun than most people thought it could be.

The film follows the story of Steve Rogers, an American obsessed with his need to serve his country. The only problem is that he is not physically fit to protect and serve anyone. Luckily for him, he undergoes a special program to become the bulky, iconic heroic hero known as Captain America. After rescuing a group of captive soldiers, Rogers works with the American government to take down the banished Nazi Red Skull, and thwart his evil plans for world domination.

The tone is what ultimately saves the film. The pulpy tone, reminiscent of other pulp classics such as the Rocketeer, demands that none of the events be taken with extreme measures of seriousness, and gives the audience a reason to try not to be too analytical and just have fun. The consistency of the tone helps sells it as well. It separates it from other comic-book films, giving it a unique identity that feels natural to it's subject matter.

However, at times the story felt rushed. There were way too many montages of events that should have been elaborated on. Other montages, such as the March of War one showing Captain America putting on shows, could have been cut entirely and would not have effected the overall story. While it did add to the tone of the film, it still felt out of place, and if they would have cut it they could have added more scenes explaining how Rogers and his team infiltrated the various Red Skulls bases.

Once again, I felt that Marvel's plans for The Avengers hindered the experience of one of their other films. Without the bookends, this could have been a very ballsy and revolutionary superhero film. It would have showcased its hero actually dieing, which is almost unheard of in the genre, as well as enhance it's theme of what it means to be a hero. Steve Rogers would have died to save his country, and the image of the kids running around with their trash can lid Captain America shields would have been a striking enough image to solidify the theme. As it is now, the Avengers tie-in bookends feel tacked on, and adds nothing to the story of Captain America.

Another key aspect that sells this film, besides its fun action and pulpy tone, is the transformation of Chris Evans. I'll admit, I was one of the skeptical fans at first who cringed at the idea of funny-boy Evans taking on such a heroic and proud character. Evans is not only a delightful surprise, but also one of the best treats of the film. Steve Rogers is ultimately a catalyst character, who never arcs, but inspires the others around him to change. As a result of not arcing, he dies because of his heroism, making him the definitive image of a hero. This is the type of character you would follow into the depths of hell, and Evans is able to personify all of the traits needed for such a larger-than-life character. This is a long way away from any of Evans' other performances and could truly be called a transformation.

Evans is surrounded by a cast that all equally bring their “A”game. Hugo Weaving is despicably obsessed and demented as the film's villain, Red Skull. He may not have the presence he had in his past villainous roles, but is a worthy opposite for Evans' portrayal. His assistant, played by Toby Jones, does an equally admirable job, showcasing the fear and suppressed attitude he has towards his freak of a boss. Hayley Atwell transcends the lover in distress role, being just as strong and brave as the Captain himself. Tommy Lee Jones may not be nothing more then the stern general, but he still proves to be a fun role that offers many laughs. Stanley Tucci is the real standout of the film. His performance is touching, and very tragic. He adds a lot for a role that could have easily been an afterthought.

The film may be nothing more than a fun movie, but it's one of the best times I had in the theater this summer. It's a great way to end all of The Avengers tie-ins, and makes me excited to see Chris Evans suit back up as the Captain.

7.5/10