Joss Whedon set the bar of expectation high with the
first Avengers film and this second employs a similar palette with even better
results. Whedon is a writer who is always able to find a lighter moment to
punctuate what could otherwise be a po- faced affair. In the midst of skull
crushing, building raising, static buzzing action he’ll add a knowing gag or a
character beat that reminds us these are (mostly) human heroes not without
their flaws. If some of the plot doesn’t necessarily pass rigorous inspection,
the sheer momentum of the movie ensures it sails through its lengthy running
time like a breeze. It’s never boring, always restless with ideas and
frequently thrilling. In contrast to almost every superhero movie it is paced
perfectly too.
