With the Disney+ streaming platform being available worldwide since February this year, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (“MCU”) movies can be found in one convenient place. Power of Pop has been a staunch supporter of the MCU since the release of Iron Man and The Incredible Hulk (which is not available on Disney+) in 2008. Thus, we continue our look back at the MCU with probably its most significant movie, 2012’s The Avengers.
It is noteworthy to remember that back when Marvel Studios began producing its own slate of movies, most of the better known characters had already been licensed to other companies e.g. X-Men, Spider-Man, Fantastic Four etc. What Marvel Studios were left with were the so-called ‘second stringers’ viz. Iron Man, the Hulk, Thor and Captain America, whom collectively formed The Avengers.
Thus, after introducing the core members in solo movies, Marvel Studios laid all its cards down with The Avengers. Marvel Studios struck pay dirt by using the same villain that was featured in the original Avengers #1 comic – Loki (played brilliantly by Tom Hiddleston). Loki had already been introduced to moviegoers in Thor.
Also playing key roles were the characters without super-powers viz. Nick Fury, Black Widow and Hawkeye. These characters were also integral to provide the vital human element in this fantastical tale. Joss Whedon’s screenplay and direction walked the fine line between geek fandom and casual moviegoer, melding throwaway humour with thrilling superhero action without sacrificing engaging characterisations.
The Avengers was a big hit at the box office, grossing over $1.5 billion, the first of many MCU billion-dollar successes and making Marvel Studios the envy of the movie industry. Many have tried to mimic the MCU’s integrated universe approach, but have failed miserably. And it all really came together with The Avengers.
Now streaming on Disney+.
… still there’s more …