Pre-Summer Superhero Showdown!!!

    Unless you live under a rock, you are probably well aware that this summer we will have quite a few superhero movies hit the big screen. In honor of this "achievement" (I'm gonna level with you here, I think the whole superhero movie genre is already WAY overdone) I decided to do a pre-summer breakdown of the new comic book flicks heading our way. To spice it up, I'm gonna judge the potential that these movies hold based purely on  a strict, clearly defined, and in no way subjective criteria; How much I enjoy the trailer and the plot it presents. Alright enough with the scientific talk, it's time for the Pre-Summer Superhero Showdown!  


Trailer Throwdown

Captain America: The First Avenger

This trailer premiered during the Super Bowl, so it suffers from seeming a little short and rushed. That said, the clip does do a decent job of establishing the basics of Captain America's origin story. Bonus points go to the fact that the film is set during WWII, thus differentiating this flick from most other superhero adventures. As well, the little bit of humor at the end of trailer showed that there is potential in the female lead. That said, the action sequences were too chaotic and unrelated to make much of an impact. Overall, not a great first impression but it wasn't awful either.

Grade: B-


Green Lantern

Sweet mercy, this just looks awful. The first comment I have to make is that this looks about on par with original Power Rangers movie (Not a compliment). Second, the CGI, specifically, Reynolds CGI suit, looks horrendous. One can only hope that this trailer was rushed out before they had put the finishing touches on the effects. Third, Blake Lively looks like she will be about as interesting to watch as a piece of cardboard. The only thing this trailer has going for it, is that its two leads are attractive. Never a good sign.

Grade: D-


Thor

This trailer lacks one thing, coherent tone. The opening makes you think that you may be watching a a movie made by the WWE. Then Anthony Hopkins shows up and you feel like you're watching a very strangely reinterpreted Shakespearean production. Next, Natalie Portman arrives on screen, and darn it if it doesn't seem like the leads may actually have some legit chemistry. Of course, that lasts perhaps ten seconds until we are treated to the standard superhero fair of loud explosions, slow motion, and random yelling. Final Impression: Not so much.

Grade: C-


X-Men First Class

This trailer works because it takes it slow and introduces you to the vast number of characters that will inhabit this rendition of the X-men universe. As a result, you are actually drawn into the relationship between the two main characters. Also, the voice over by John F. Kennedy gives the whole thing a cool retro vibe. In the end, the trailer leaves you intrigued and wanting to know more and that is the true mark of success.
Grade: A-



The Winner Is:

Dan