Review of Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) by Craig F — 07 May 2016

I'm very back and forth, it's quicker, busier, and grander than the first, but at the same time I left the theater thinking to myself 'that's it?'. It's as good as the first Avegers at times, but falls short by the end. The first hour or so (until we met Klaw) is some of the best filmaking Marvel has put out, but they are simply trying to begin too many stories at once. Overly sarcastic, under prepared for the Avengers, and underdeveloped, Ultron failed to prove his intelligence even once. Disappointing to say the least, Ultron just came off as lame and rebellious, as if he wanted to exterminate humanity to slight Tony, a grudge that was never truly understandable. I enjoyed the banter for most of the film but there was no place for it in what should have been a high stakes final battle with the greatest threat the Avengers face, though in the film Ultron proves himself a bit of a pushover. It was nice to see them get Hawkeye right this time, along with standout portrayals of Scarlet Witch and Vision. Quicksilver could have been handled better but with Marvel and Fox sharing the rights I understand it was business. Though it was too bad the twins seemed to forget their hatred for Stark halfway through the film. Thor was a bit neglected and rather than taming the Hulk it would have served Marvel better to exile him to another Galaxy wink, wink. Incredible cinematography this time around and Danny Elfman's score was standout despite Brian Tyler headlining the project. Overall, Hulk and Ultron should have been more destructive and ultimately, Age of Ultron should have been two parts due to underdevelopment, character clutter, and title (otherwise change it to the less imposing Day of Ultron). Hopefully we see Ultron return in some way.

Sidenotes: The Avengers keep saying how dissorganized they are but the defeated Loki and Ultron in two days... 'Didn't see that coming?' Does Quicksilver say anything else?