The first big-screen depiction of the most iconic hero in Marvel’s history is a solid movie that introduces viewers to a character who stands for truth, justice and the American way. The film is full of action and adventure, but also provides an excellent character study for Captain America and a perfect set up for the Avengers films that followed it.
The film is well-paced, with plenty of action to keep fans entertained throughout the picture. But what really sets it apart is the focus on the development of the hero and his relationship with Bucky Barnes. The two characters are inseparable, with their bond forming over the course of the entire MCU and becoming central to the films that follow it.
This version of Cap is a bit too squeaky clean for my tastes, though. The idea of the super soldier serum bringing out his inner qualities is completely forgotten, and instead we get a buff guy who fights for the American way. This is an interesting take, but I don’t think it works as well as the modern version of the character.
This one also doesn’t feature any Nazis or Soviet threats, which makes it feel like a reimagining of The Six Million Dollar Man more than a Captain America movie. Still, it’s a fun flick and worth checking out, especially for a nostalgia trip. Plus, Reb Brown and Judith Ridley look great together. I just wish this film had been a little more faithful to the original comic book story.