Avengers: Endgame (SPOILER-FREE IMPRESSIONS)
Initially I hadn't intended to document my impressions of Avengers: Endgame for two reasons: It's essentially impossible to discuss it with any depth without spoiling key plot lines, and also because I wasn't sure I would have anything to add to the sea of reviews already emerging. That said, a few friends have asked for my thoughts, so I relented. This is intended to be my general impression and not an extensive review for reasons cited above.
With all the warnings about avoiding spoilers, one could reasonably conclude the enjoyment of Endgame depends heavily on pivotal events, that once revealed, the substance of which is depleted. In reality, while there are some surprising events, the film isn't held together by them, and thus it is ripe for rewatchability.
Endgame is the bookend to the Infinity Saga that began with 2008's Iron Man. This is an appropriate ending that is loaded with call backs to prior films as well as being a fulfilling homage to Marvel comic book readers. As I've stated previously, the Marvel Cinematic Universe pulls from decades of comic story arcs, but it is its own universe and thus can be enjoyed without having read a single comic book. However, the MCU films certainly reference themselves and none more heavily than Endgame. I doubt the story will make much sense to someone who hasn't seen at least a few of the MCU films. At the very least, one should see Infinity War prior to Endgame, but for the fully realized impact, all 21 prior films should be seen in advance. At which point, you're officially a fan, and that is precisely the audience Endgame addresses. Yes, as many have already expressed, this film feels like a heartfelt "thank you" to the MCU fans by way of earnest, respectful treatment of these beloved characters.
Endgame was originally intended to be "Infinity War: Part 2" at least by design, but this is a very different film in both mood and pace. Speaking to the pacing, there are already murmurings about the first act being "slow". Personally, with the events of Infinity War fresh in my mind, the measured pacing of the first act served as a necessary exhale, if you will. It is also essential to impart the emotion these characters experience. I dare say there is far more emotion in Endgame than any of the prior films. If you got misty with Yondu's send-off in Guardians of the Galaxy 2, you'll likely straight-up cry in Endgame. But it's not all somber and brooding. There are plenty of moments of levity, and as fans, we are rewarded with an over-the-top, kitchen sink, mother-of-all-comic book-crazy-battles that is visceral, breath-taking, and fulfilling all at the same time.
Avengers: Endgame lives up to its hype and provides a satisfying closure to this sprawling 11-year arc. I can't wait to see what Marvel Studios does in the next phase.
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