A Layman’s Guide To The Returning Characters In CIVIL WAR: #TeamCap


Captain America: Civil War is a bona fide hit! It made $179.1 Million opening weekend, Critics love it, and I love it! If you are going to see Civil War this weekend, or if you’re trying to figure out a few Civil War moments after seeing the film, and you haven’t memorized all the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films like myself; this catch-up will help you better understand the film’s many character threads and relationships.

We’ll start with #TeamCap; those that alley with Steve Rogers or are tied to the Captain America films (like Brock Rumlow). Why did Ant-Man and Falcon have that exchange? Why is Bucky such a polarizing a figure? Who is that burned dude? Haven’t I seen that Blond Agent before? What’s Scarlet Witch’s deal again, Age of Ultron was so confusing!?!

Never fear! I’m here for you with a guide to all the returning players in Captain America: Civil War, from Captain America to Agent 13. NO SPOILERS for Civil War. Many Spoilers for any earlier MCU film including the character we’re discussing.

Captain America/Steve Rogers (Chris Evans)nullMovies He’s In: Captain America: The First Avenger, The Avengers, Thor: The Dark World (sort of…), Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Avengers: Age of Ultron

Powers: Super strength, enhanced reflexes, fast metabolism/healing (the man can’t get drunk), leadership skills, superhuman morality (I say that counts), a Shield made of the strongest metal on Earth, Vibranium.

His Story So Far: Steve Rogers was too scrawny to serve with his life-long friend Bucky in WWII, so he underwent an experiment in which a “Super Soldier Serum” not only made him the beefiest Avenger, but taller (along with the powers listed above)! After rescuing Bucky from the hands of Hydra, the two proved their bond was just as strong on the battlefield as it was growing up. Now known as Captain America, Steve Rogers receives his Vibranium Shield from Tony Stark’s father, Howard, a friend of his during the Great War. During the events of The First Avenger, Steve Rogers watches Bucky plummet to his assumed death. Rogers defeats the head of Hydra, Red Skull, stopping his attempt to to conquer the planet. In the process, Captain America crashes into the Arctic and is frozen for 70 years.

Captain America is awakened in an age of superheros (or “the enhanced”) in which a man with a weaponized suit of armor, a giant green monster, and an Alien with God-like powers are all known to the world. Under the direction of Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson), the director of S.H.I.E.L.D., the four heroes are brought together with two S.H.I.E.L.D. agents to form The Avengers, just in time to stop an alien invasion. Though the aliens are dead, New York is decimated by damage from the battle. Even in saving the world,  Steve Rogers has reservations about organizations like S.H.I.E.L.D and the World Security Council which governs it.

Following the climatic Battle of New York in The Avengers, Steve Rogers finds himself as an agent of S.H.I.E.L.D., carrying out missions for Nick Fury and his bosses, Alexander Pierce (Robert Redford) and the World Security Council. While working for S.H.I.E.L.D. Rogers comes to blows with The Winter Soldier, a Hydra Agent who has been carrying out assassinations for the evil organization for years. Captain America learns that the Winter Soldier is actually Bucky, who survived the fall during WWII due to Hydra experimenting on him, was given a metal arm, brainwashed, and was frozen and then unfrozen for decades to carry out said assassinations. Cap also learns that S.H.I.E.L.D. has been Hydra all along (more or less), lead by Alexander Pierce who is himself controlling the Winter Soldier/Brain-Washed Bucky. With the help of allies including Black Widow, Sam Wilson/Falcon, Agent 13, and Nick Fury, Captain America destroys three automated Helicarriers that are targeting all of Hydra’s potential enemies. In the process, his team sends all three flying ships crashing into Washington DC below, with many casualties. Pierce is brought down, but not before killing the World Security Council and leading to the end of S.H.I.E.L.D. In the finale, The Winter Soldier and Steve Rogers fight, the latter refusing to kill his old friend in hopes he will remember him. In the end, Bucky does save Rogers from drowning, before disappearing without a trace. Let’s just say the whole process cemented Rogers’ concerns about government organizations and their control

In Avengers: Age of Ultron, Captain America fights alongside his old teammates to defeat the evil Artificial Intelligence, Ultron, created by Tony Stark and bent on destroying the human race. Rogers and The Avengers stop Ultron, but at the expense of a European City known as Sokovia. The death toll in Sokovia is higher than ever and by the end of the film Hulk, Thor, Hawkeye, and Tony Stark/Iron Man leave the team in favor of Steve Rogers’ led “New Avegners,” made up of Black Widow, War Machine, Falcon, Scarlet Witch, and Vision.

The Winter Soldier/Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan)Captain America Civil War Bucky Barnes The Winter SoldierMovies He’s In: Captain America: The First Avenger, Captain America: The Winter Soldier.

Powers: Super strength, a metal arm that can even deflect bullets.

His Story So Far: Bucky Barnes grew up with Steve Rogers before he was Captain America, being the only one there for his friend when Steve lost his parents. Enlisting without his scrawny friend, Bucky’s unit is captured by Hydra. Captain America rescues his old friend, but not before Hydra’s best scientist, Dr. Armin Zola, experiments on poor Bucky. Bucky serves alongside Rogers in a unit known as The Howling Commandos, until he falls from a train-car into a canyon with a freezing river.

Bucky is rescued by Hydra, who experiment on him further, replacing a limb he lost in his fall with a metal arm. Now The Winter Solider, he is brainwashed and used by Hydra as an assassin for decades, kept in cryosleep  between missions. Eventually, The Winter Soldier battles his old friend, Steve Rogers/Captain America, confused when he is called Bucky. The Winter Soldier is brainwashed again and sent to prevent Captain America and his allies from crippling Hydra’s Helicarriers. The two old friends fight, and with Steve Rogers refusing to kill his old friend, he is defeated and plunges into the water below. The Winter Soldier rescues Steve Rogers, and though at the end of Captain America: The Winter Soldier, we do not know what Buck remembers as we see him inspecting his own memorial in the Smithsonian’s Captain America Exhibit.

Falcon/Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie)Captain America Civil War Sam Wilson Falcon Anthony MackieMovies He’s In: Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Ant-Man

Powers: Special Flight Suit that resembles a Falcon, with wings that can act as a Shield, and googles which increase his eye sight.

His Story So Far: In The Winter Soldier, Sam Wilson is a Veteran who meets Steve Rogers, and the pair quickly become friends. When Captain America learns S.H.I.E.L.D. is actually Hydra, he seeks out Wilson as his number of allies are limited. Falcon more than pulls his weight, taking down one of the Helicarriers, before having his wing ripped off and being thrown from a Helicarrier by the Winter Soldier. Falcon survives the fall and fights Hydra Agent Brock Rumlow in the S.H.I.E.L.D. HQ building, winning only when the building collapses and he escapes!

In Age of Ultron, Sam Wilson is carrying on the search for Bucky following the events of The Winter Soldier. At the end of the film though, Falcon is revealed to be one of Captain America’s New Avengers. Finally, in Ant-Man, Falcon is beaten by Scott Lang/Ant-Man while trying to defend the New Avengers Compound. Wilson takes note of the tiny Superhero, in case he is ever needed to assist the Avengers.

Hawkeye/Clint Barton (Jeremy Renner)Captain America Civil War Hawkeye Clint Barton Jeremy RennerMovies He’s In: Thor, The Avengers, Avengers: Age of Ultron

Superpowers: Best character with a bow and arrow in the history of cinema (suck it, Legolas  and Katniss!). Also has a variety of arrows for many uses.

His Story So Far: Hawkeye is a former S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent who served with the Avengers in both the 1st film and Age of Ultron. In Ultron, he is saved by Scarlet Witch’s brother, Quicksilver at the cost of Quicksilver’s life. For this reason and the pep talk he gave Scarlet Witch during the battle that destroyed Sokovia, he has become closer to her than perhaps anyone but Vision. Clint Barton has a secret family kept even off S.H.I.E.L.D.’s books which he retires to at the end of Age of Ultron.

Scarlet Witch/Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen)Captain America Civil War Scarlet Witch Wanda Maximoff Elizabeth OlsenMovies She’s In: Captain America: The Winter Soldier (post-credits scene), Avengers: Age of Ultron

Powers: The true limits of Scarlet Witch’s powers are unknown. She is able to move objects with her mind, create telekinetic shields, and induce crippling images of your worst nightmare.

Her Story So Far: Wanda Maximoff and her brother volunteered to be experimented on by Hydra after a bomb made by Stark Industries kills her parents. Using Loki’s Staff from The Avengers, she and her brother are the only survivors of Hydra’s experiment, endowed with extraordinary powers making them the newest “Enhanced.” Due to their hate for Stark, “The Twins” team with Ultron until Scarlet Witch realizes his goal is to destroy the world. Siding with The Avengers, she helps defeat Ultron, but at the cost of her brother’s life and her entire city, Sokovia.

Wanda shares a special relationship with Vision because their powers both come from the same place; Loki’s Staff revealed to be the Mind Stone. She also sees Hawkeye as a sort of mentor after his speech to her during the Battle of Sokovia. By the end of Age of Ultron, Scarlet Witch is a member of the New Avengers.

Ant-Man/Scott Lang (Paul Rudd)Captain America Civil War Ant-Man Scott Lang On Arrow Paul RuddMovies He’s In: Ant-Man

Powers: The ability to shrink and return to normal size instantly at the push of a button, with extreme super-strength and speed when tiny. Can also “control”Ants with his helmet.

His Story So Far: Scott Lang is a known felon, recruited by the original Ant-Man, Hank Pym, to take up his mantle and save the world. Ant-Man fights Falcon and wins, when he is sent to the Avengers compound to steal some Stark Tech. Taught by Hank Pym never to trust a Stark, Lang still hears through the grapevine at the end of the film that there may be an Avenger interested in recruiting him.

Agent 13/Sharon (Emily VanCamp)Captain America Civil War Agent 13 Sharon Carter Emily VanCamp and Martin FreemanMovies She’s In: Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Powers: None, but a former S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent with incredible fighting skill.

Her Story So Far: Sharon aka Agent 13, was the S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Nick Fury put in charge of watching Captain America prior to the fall of Hydra. Living across the hall from Rogers, posing as a nurse, Agent 13 is the 1st to respond when Nick Fury is shot by the Winter Soldier in Steve Rogers’ apartment. After Hydra was revealed to be S.H.I.E.L.D. she was one of the primary Agents that sided with Captain America in order to take down the Hydra Agents and prevent the launch of Hydra’s lethal Helicarriers. Though there was some sexual tension between her and Rogers, and Black Widow recommended to Steve that he ask her out, the pair have never even kissed.

Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell)Captain America: The First AvengerMovies She’s In: Captain America: The First Avenger, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Ant-ManAgent Carter (MCU Short), Agent Carter (ABC TV Series)

Superpowers: None, strong WWII Agent and Founder of S.H.I.E.L.D.

Her Story So Far: Peggy Carter was partially responsible for selecting scrawny Steve Rogers for the Super Soldier Program. She served with Rogers and Howard Stark during WWII, the latter two being S.H.I.E.L.D.’s founding members. Peggy was in love with Steve, but she never got that dance she was promised when Steve Rogers plunged that plane into the Arctic, saving the world. She was an important Agent during the Cold War as well, being an important decision maker at S.H.I.E.L.D. through the 80’s. When Steve Rogers finally catches up with her after he is unfrozen in The Winter Soldier,  she is an old woman in a hospital bed, suffering from extreme dementia. At least these two have kissed (when she was young, you sicko!).

Brock Rumlow (Frank Grillo)Brock Rumlow Captain America The Winter Soldier Frank GrilloMovies He’s In: Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Powers: None, just a well trained special forces Hydra Agent who worked with Captain America long enough to know his moves and what makes him tick.

His Story So Far: This one isn’t #TeamCap at all, but a villain from the Captain America film franchise. Brock Rumlow was Captain America’s right hand man as leader of the S.H.I.E.L.D. team STRIKE. He ran countless missions with Steve Rogers and was the first one sent to take in Captain America when Rogers started having doubts about S.H.I.E.L.D. When Hydra was revealed, he fought to defend it, coming to blows with Sam Wilson before having S.H.I.E.L.D. HQ dropped on him. Though badly burned, at the end of Winter Soldier, we see that Rumlow has survived.Brock Rumlow Burned Captain America The Winter Soldier

That’s really all you need to know about all the characters that make up #TeamCap (more or less)! Read our Leyman’s Guide to #TeamIronMan NOW!

CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR Review: The Avengers, Fully Realized


Believe the hype. Captain America: Civil War delivers every “Holy Shit!” moment you were hoping for in an Avengers movie. And this is a Captain America film (mostly)!

There will be NO SPOILERS in this review; no exact plot points, no surprises ruined, no twists revealed, no characters’ greatest moments exposed. Just the broad strokes here, kiddies, because I want you to enjoy this film as much as I did. If it wasn’t in the trailer, I won’t discuss it here (there will be one minor spoiler, but I’ll warn you… and be as ambiguous as possible). It may make for a very short review, but all you really want me to do is confirm that Civil War is as great as everyone else is saying it is.Captain America Civil War Review Team CapAnd IT IS! Good Lord, this movie delivers on every level. I had very high hopes going in, and I can’t say I was ever disappointed.

It is hard to answer if Civil War is better than Marvel’s old reigning champ, Captain America: Winter Soldier, but that’s because they are very different films. Plus, if I consider both movies 5 Star Films, does it really make a difference which is better? Winter Soldier was a tighter, more contained movie – a 70’s-esque Thriller – while Civil War is a sprawling epic, hitting more parts of the globe and carrying the weight of more characters than even Avengers: Age of Ultron. Yet it works better, much better than Ultron. Civil War does keep that Captain America focus, spending less time with the other heroes than with Captain America and Bucky “The Winter Soldier” Barnes, but really is more of a full Avengers adventure, sans Hulk and Thor. Captain America Civil War Review Bucky The Winter Soldier and Steve RogersIf you’re reading this, you know enough of the plot that I don’t need to say much of anything else. What I will say though, is that Civil War delivers more “I feel like I need to stand up and clap because I never thought I’d see that scene/character/moment so beautifully realized in a film” than any Marvel Cinematic Universe film before it. There are shots/scenes/moments in this film that are the most exciting you’ve seen since the unbelievable occurrence in 2o12 when the Avengers actually assembled in one movie! If The Avengers will always be remembered for bringing together different heroes with their own films onto one team, then Civil War will go down as the MCU movie that fully realizes the full potential of EVERY Avenger present, nearly always exceeding expectations. Powers you’ve never seen them use, skills highlighted in a way the other films have not, and personality shining through in characters that you could have previously accused of being one dimensional. It’s everyone from Hawkeye & Falcon as you’ve never seen him before, to Ant Man as you’ve never seen him before! Really, a stellar evolution to even the characters you already knew were bad-ass.

Avengers: Age of Ultron, you’ve been out Avenger’ed by a film with Captain America in the title. Captain America Civil War Review Spider-ManCivil War isn’t nearly as dark as Winter Soldier, even when funnier characters like Spider-Man and Ant-Man don’t populate the screen. The tone is lighter, though the plot is just as serious as an MCU film ever was, with poignant moments that may be among the most gut-wrenching in any superhero film. While I have Spider-Man brought up though, let’s just say he’s the most amazing (reference to original comic intended) iteration of the character, again, living up to all expectations (like everything else… I keep telling you!).

In this way, Captain America: Civil War avoids all the pitfalls of Batman V Superman, a movie with a similar premise but much lower IQ. Even Batman V Superman‘s greatest strengths are eclipsed by Civil War. I’m not biased, Batman is my favorite comic book character, but even his shining moments in  BvS don’t touch the excitement produced by Civil War‘s spectacle; both in character moments and those action scenes you CAN NOT BELIEVE you’ve seen!Captain America Civil War Review Steve Rogers and Tony StarkThe one comparison to Batman V Superman I will make, and this is the only MINOR SPOILER, is the villain behind the warring heroes. Unlike Lex Luthor, the baddie pulling the strings in Civil War is subtle and incredibly clever. You never question the logic of the plan he has put into action and the twists he throws into the film. Minimal Spoiler Over!

I really don’t know what else to say except… If you like the MCU, YOU WILL LOVE THIS FILM! I didn’t notice a single missed opportunity.

With directors of this film and Winter Solider, Joe and Anthony Russo, also at the helm of the Phase 3 ending film, Avengers: Infinity War, Part 1 & 2, all is well in the Marvel Universe.

DC, you best step up your game… and fast!

5_Star_Rating_System_5_stars

And yes, there is an amazing Community cameo in this film, just like Winter Soldier (but better!).

 

Joss Whedon Introduces Scarlet Witch & Quicksilver From ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ With Screen Grabs!


It seems like the marketing team at Marvel Studios can’t take a week off until ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ is released… unless they start the ‘Ant-Man’ train in a similar manner once they have assured themselves ‘Age of Ultron’ is the biggest movie… ever. (Until ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ that is…)

We now have a featurette with writer/director Joss Whedon introducing us to the two Avengers he’s always wanted to use: siblings Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen) and Quicksilver (Aaron Taylor-Johnson).

Watch the clip, with plenty of new Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch action now!

I went ahead and did a few original screen grabs of new footage of the dangerous Maximoff twins. Again, you’re welcome.

 

The team arrives, sans Hulk.Avengers: Age of Ultron The Avengers Arrive

 

 

Scarlet Witch whips up some magic.Avengers Age of Ultron Scarlet Witch Magic

 

Quicksilver certainly is fast. Too fast for Captain America, at least!avengers age of ultron before quicksilver Avengers Age of Ultron Quicksilver Running Effect Avengers Age of Ultron Quicksilver checks an Ultron Drone

 

 

The Siblings plan.Avengers Age of Ultron scarlet witch and quicksilver plan

 

 

Captain America debriefed on Maximoff twins.Avengers Age of Ultron Captain America briefed on Maximoff Twins Avengers Age of Ultron Maximoff Twins on iPad

 

 

Sibling love.Avengers Age of Ultron Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver Avengers Age of Ultron Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch Hold Hands

 

 

Quicksilver is even faster!!! Much too fast for Hawkeye also.Avengers Age of Ultron Quicksilver Runs Avengers Age of Ultron Quicksilver Freaky Fast Avengers Age of Ultron Quicksilver Streaks of Speed Avengers Age of Ultron Hawkeye Aims in Forrest Avengers Age of Ultron Quicksilver Hits Hawkeye Avengers Age of Ultron Hawkeye Down Avengers Age of Ultron Quicksilver Gloats to Hawkeye

 

 

Scarlet Witch blasts Iron Man. Hard.Avengers Age of Ultron Scarlet Witch Red Eyes Attack Avengers Age of Ultron Iron Man Takes Scarlet Witch Hit

 

 

We need to work together to defeat them.Avengers Age of Ultron Tony Stark Talks to Nick Fury in Barn Avengers Age of Ultron Steve Rogers Together Avengers Age of Ultron Nick Fury Talks to Tony Stark in Barn Avengers Age of Ultron Tony Stark How Do We Beat Them

 

 

Scarlet Witch explosion!Avengers Age of Ultron Scarlet Witch Powers

 

Captain America holds tight as he goes for a spin.Avengers Age of Ultron Captain America Holds on to Flipping Car Avengers Age of Ultron Captain America Spinning Car

 

Siblings in action.Avengers Age of Ultron Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver Use Their PowersAvengers Age of Ultron Scarlet Witch Magic Casting Avengers Age of Ultron Scarlet Witch Magic Casting Finish

‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ hits cinemas May 1st, here in the US. We may see the entire movie in clips, trailers, & featurettes by then!

‘Avengers’ TV Spot #3 Features New Action For Earth’s Mightiest Heroes


Marvel keeps blessing us with new ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ footage, this time in the form of their 3rd TV Spot. (The 1st can be viewed here)

EDIT: Upon watching the 2nd TV Spot HERE, it looks like most the footage actually comes from that teaser. Still, Marvel has blessed us with with some even newer footage for the 3rd Spot.

Watch it now!

There you go!

Iron Man admits that Capt. runs the show, though Stark,”Designs everything. Makes everyone look cooler.”Tony Stark Avengers : Age of UltronTV Spot 3 Iron Man Avengers: Age of Ultron

Captain America throws his motorcycle at a Hydra tank! “It just slipped.”Avengers: Age of Ultron TV Spot 3 Captain AmericaAvengers: Age of Ultron Captain America Motorcycle Flip

Black Widow confronts her old friend, Hulk. “Hey big guy.”Age of Ultron TV Spot 3 Black Widow

Hulk smashes.Hulk Age of Ultron TV Spot 3Hulk Smash Avengers: Age of Ultron TV Spot 3

Thor takes the Shield pitch from Capt. and rockets it away with his hammer. “It’s all in the swing.”Baseball Captain America's Shield Thor Age of UltronAll in the Swing Thor Age of Ultron

And… there’s Hawkeye… who remains a disappointing character considering he’s played by Academy Award Nominee Jeremy Renner. (Prove me wrong, Joss Whedon, prove me wrong!)Hawkeye Age of Ultron TV Spot 3

Then we get quick, not-so-new shots of Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver.Scarlet Witch Age of Ultron TV Spot 3Quicksilver Age of Ultron TV Spot 3

And then there’s Ultron. Who could forget Ultron? “It’s time for some fun.”

Ultron drone! (Not Ultron Prime)
Ultron drone! (Not Ultron Prime)

All that’s missing is Vision. Even Maria Hill is here! Working for her boss, Tony Stark, which brings us full circle back to his quote about Capt. being team leader.

I’m sure we’ll see plenty of new TV Spots between now and May 1st. Marvel Studios has been more than generous with ‘Age of Ultron’ footage.

But can we please get a better look at ‘Ant-Man?’Ant-Man Teaser

Final ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ Trailer Shows Movie’s True Vision (Literally)


Daaaaaaaaaaaaaammmmmmn.

As good as the other trailers for ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ have been, the third and final preview for Marvel’s next film takes the cake. It takes ALL the cake.Avengers Assemble Trailer 3

Watch Now! Talk Later!

Prepare to have your socks knocked off (not literally, though that is possible)!


That opening speech… is Ultron JEALOUS of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes? Awwwww. That’s so cute.

But seriously, that trailer is the very definition of coo-coo-bananas.

Capt. Fights Quicksilver.
Capt. Fights Quicksilver.

And that “Vision” comment… for those not in the know, Vision is the character whose eyes we see at the tail end of the trailer.

No time to go into any sort of detail… yet.

The New ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ Poster Is… Kind of Pretty, Actually.


Marvel Studios has released their official poster Poster for 2012's 'The Avengers'for May 1st’s ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ (we have only seen a teaser poster up until this point) , the sequel to 2012’s ‘The Avengers.’

Though the painted poster-style of artists like the incomparable Drew Struzan may be dead, the final poster for ‘Age of Ultron’ is way classier and less of a Photoshop mess than the final poster for the 1st film.

Or the Photoshop messes of overcrowded ‘Iron Man 3,’ ‘Thor: The Dark World,’ and ‘Captain America: Winter Soldier’ posters. (The ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ poster was actually pretty sweet…)

Avengers Phase 2 PostersThis poster, though also a Photoshopped hodgepodge, has way more style and is much more pleasing to the eye than Marvel Studios’ previous attempts at a good “final” poster for a film.

Here it is.

The official poster for 'Avengers: Age of Ultron.'
The official poster for ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron.’

There you go. Notice the curved flow of the images, making the poster more pleasing to the eye, as art, than any of the previous posters from Marvel Studios.

Plus, we get Scarlet Witch, Quicksilver, AND our best official look at The Vision yet! No “Ultron Prime,” though. Just the Ultron Drones.

And my favorite Avenger, Captain America, is finally front and center where he belongs! Team leader (now with high franchise potential)! Capt.’s not wedged behind Iron Man and Thor like last time!

May 1st can’t come soon enough, kids!

Podcast #11: Nick And Andrew: Corporate Shills


Nick and Andrew begin their discussion, dissecting the latest, 2nd ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ trailer (what a surprise!) before moving onto the “Oscars Game.” Basically, Nick tries to guess the Academy Award nominees with little help from Andrew. The best episode yet! For real. Would I lie to you?

Brand New AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON Trailer #2!


Last week Marvel knocked us all back on our asses with the 1st trailer and poster for ‘Ant-Man’ and news of their Netflix show, ‘Daredevil.’Age Of Ultron Capt.'s Helmet

Now… we have a brand-spankin’-new trailer for Marvel’s other little 2015 movie, ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ with almost entirely new footage.

Here we go…

I won’t go too deep into it yet,  but Ultron’s statement, “Everyone creates the thing they dread” ties right into Stark’s ‘Iron Man 3’ problem of creating his own demons.Early UltronTony's Greatest Fear

The real theme of the trailer, which is most likely a much bigger part of the movie than initially realized, comes from Ultron’s ultimatum, “I’m going to tear you apart… from the inside.”

The trailer shows a lot of characters out-of-whack…

From Black Widow’s surgery/origin…

Young Natasha Romanoff
Young Natasha Romanoff

Romanoff Surgery

… to Thor torment and power removal?…

Something's wrong with Thor. Is that Enchantress behind him? Either real or a Scarlet Witch mind-fuck.
Something’s wrong with Thor. Is that Enchantress behind him? Either real or a Scarlet Witch mind-fuck?
Is this the same woman from the Thor shot? She is entering a pool of water... and Thor did pop out of water shirtless and in pain in the 1st trailer...
Is this the same woman from the Thor shot? She is entering a pool of water… and Thor did pop out of water shirtless and in pain in the 1st trailer…

…To a raging Hulk that must be taken down by the Hulkbuster, which, like the 1st trailer, is here in true form!Bruce Banner about to Hulk out.Something's wrong with the Hulk. Most likely Scarlet Witch manipulation.

It definitely seems like Ultron is using Scarlet Witch’s powers to get inside the Avenger members’ heads to bring out their most painful memories and cause them to squabble more hardcore than they did in the first film.

Lots of great money shots here too!

Great Iron Man in action at Baron Von Strucker’s castle…Iron Man lands

An epic one-on-one fight between Captain America and a Ultron drone…Captain America in 'Age of Ultron'Drone from 'Age of Ultron'Captain America takes on an Ultron DroneAnd amazing Hulk footage… including another great look at the epic battle between Hulk and Stark’s Hulkbuster (which contrary to my earlier theory, does look like Tony is piloting himself).Hulk vs. Hulkbuster

I was wrong! It's totally Tony Stark in that suit. Look at his HUD, there's even a image of the Hulkbuster, not a traditional suit.
I was wrong! It’s totally Tony Stark in that suit. Look at his HUD, there’s even a image of the Hulkbuster, not a traditional suit.

Hulkbuster flies with HulkHulkbuster Assemble!Very little footage of Quicksilver and only a sliver more for Scarlet Witch..

Really, the only shot of Quicksilver.
Really, the only shot of Quicksilver.

And finally… behold the power of Ultron! He can shoot lasers from his fingers!Ultron TurnsUltron Gloats

Ulton Fires!
Ulton Fires!
And Iron Man takes the hit!
And Iron Man takes the hit!

Like all good trailers (especially the Marvel ones) there is a lot to find and analyze in the coming days and weeks… until we get another trailer!

Or a new ‘Ant-Man’ trailer…

Or a ‘Daredevil’ one.

I love you, Marvel Studios. I really do. Marry me?

Breaking Down The ‘Avengers: Age Of Ultron’ Trailer: What Does It All Mean?


Concept Art of  Complete Ultron
Concept Art of Complete Ultron

This week we were blessed by the ‘Gods’ of Asgard’s gift to us mortals: the first trailer for ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron!’

Our first look at the movie fuels my speculation on the path the film’s storyline will take by providing new information and images not offered in Marvel Studios’ official synopsis, early photos, and leaked information.

First, Marvel Studios’ official synopsis:

Marvel Studios presents “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” the epic follow-up to the biggest Super Hero movie of all time. When Tony Stark tries to jumpstart a dormant peacekeeping program, things go awry and Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, The Incredible Hulk, Black Widow and Hawkeye, are put to the ultimate test as the fate of the planet hangs in the balance. As the villainous Ultron emerges, it is up to The Avengers to stop him from enacting his terrible plans, and soon uneasy alliances and unexpected action pave the way for an epic and unique global adventure.

Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron” stars Robert Downey Jr., who returns as Iron Man, along with Chris Evans as Captain America, Chris Hemsworth as Thor and Mark Ruffalo as The Hulk. Together with Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow and Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, and with the additional support of Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury and Cobie Smulders as Agent Maria Hill, the team must reassemble to defeat James Spader as Ultron, a terrifying technological villain hell-bent on human extinction. Along the way, they confront two mysterious and powerful newcomers, Wanda Maximoff, played by Elizabeth Olsen, and Pietro Maximoff, played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and meet an old friend in a new form when Paul Bettany becomes Vision.

Captain America Runs From 'The Flying Car'In addition to the preceding summary, what did we see in the trailer and what will likely happen in ‘Age of Ultron?’

Act 1 – Assault on Baron Strucker’s Castle

During the mid-credit sequence on ‘Captain America: Winter Soldier’ we were introduced to Baron Wolfgang von Strucker and his Hydra operation, in possession of both Loki’s staff with the Mind Infinity Stone and “the twins;” Pietro and Wanda Maximoff (Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Elizabeth Olsen, who played husband and wife in 2014’s ‘Godzilla’).

Baron Strucker as he appeared in the mid-credit sequence of 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier.'
Baron Strucker as he appeared in the mid-credit sequence of ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier.’

Baron Strucker speaks of Hydra and S.H.I.E.L.D. being two sides of a coin “that is no longer currency” vowing to feed other Hydra bases to “Captain America and his colorful friends” in order to continue their own important research which has resulted in dead volunteers and the twins which, to Baron Strucker, ushers in the “Age of Miracles.”

I assume Loki’s staff from ‘The Avengers’ is the source of Baron Strucker’s experiments on humans that results in giving the Pietro and Wanda their powers, making them Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch, respectively.

Tony Stark surveys the area around Baron Strucker's castle? Or is that Wakanda? (More on that later.)
Tony Stark surveys the area around Baron Strucker’s castle? Or is that Wakanda? (More on that later.)

I propose the movie will open with an Avengers assault on Baron Strucker’s castle (seen below), freeing the twins and acquiring Loki’s staff which was confiscated by S.H.I.E.L.D. after ‘The Avengers,’ only to fall into Hydra hands due to their secret doings within Nick Fury’s old organization.

Baron Strucker's Castle? Home to Hydra Experiments Resulting In Twin 'Miracles' Scarlet Witch and 'Quicksilver'
Baron Strucker’s Castle? Home to Hydra Experiments Resulting In Twin ‘Miracles’ Scarlet Witch and ‘Quicksilver.’

The assault on Strucker’s castle would serve as the perfect action scene to kick off one hell of a movie with a blast while also serving the story. The twins have to be freed somehow. The Avengers need an opening action sequence to get them to their next scene; the party at Avengers Tower. It’s a win-win-win, if you include the audience.

Hydra Style Weapons Similar to What We Saw in 'Captain America: The First Avenger.'
Hydra Style Weapons Similar to What We Saw in ‘Captain America: The First Avenger.’
Hawkeye runs through what looks like the Forrest surrounding Baron Strucker's castle in what is likely Germany or another European country.
Hawkeye runs through what looks like the Forrest surrounding Baron Strucker’s castle in what is likely Germany or another European country.
Captain America standing  in Baron Strucker's Castle? We Shall See.
Captain America standing in Baron Strucker’s Castle? We Shall See.

The above photos offer a snowy Forrest, very simialar to what we saw in ‘Captain America: First Avenger,’ evidence we’re in Europe or Germany in these scenes, NOT Wakanda as suggested by other blogs.

ACT II – The Party and The Arrival of Ultron

The first footage revealed at Comic-Con showed the Avengers on their day off, throwing a shindig at Avengers Tower. The scene has a party-trick sort of contest between the members of the Avengers who each try to lift Thor’s hammer to the Asgardian’s amusement. When Captain America moves it an inch, Thor is a bit peeved… and shocked. Steve Rogers is worthy indeed…

The party is interrupted by an unexpected visitor. Presumably Stark already revealed his plan; the creation of Ultron taking world security off of the Avengers’ backs. But why is the Ultron in such bad shape? Did The Avengers already try to take him down after he overstepped his bounds? Is Stark still building him, C-3PO in ‘Star Wars: Episode I’ style?

The Avengers' party comes to a hault.
The Avengers’ party comes to a hault.

Stark Reacts to Ultron

Ultron has no strings.
Ultron has no strings.

Ultron Puppet 2

Or were Ultron and this other drone and/or Iron Man suit made to fight to the death, Mandingo style?

Ultron Holds A Second Drone... Or Is That an Iron Man suit?
Ultron Holds A Second Drone… Or Is That an Iron Man suit? (Take note of the Avengers logo on Ultron’s chest.)

Likely, Ultron overstepped his bounds, and the 2nd drone or Iron Man suit was dispatched to take him out, only to fail as seen below.

Ultron smashes the drone to the ground.
Ultron smashes the drone to the ground.
Ultron Smash!
Ultron Smash!

It’s safe to assume the party is over.

“The Twins” – Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch

The Maximoff Twins sure are angry about something. What are they protesting/revolting about? Is it an anti-Avengers rally? And is this before or after they were experimented on? There are obviously many questions to answer.
The Maximoff Twins sure are angry about something. What are they protesting/revolting about? Is it an anti-Avengers rally? And is this before or after they were experimented on? There are obviously many questions to answer.

How exactly do Joss Whedon’s favorite Avengers, Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch, play into the plot of ‘Avengers: Age Of Ultron?’

Assuming they get their freedom from the Avengers assault on Strucker’s castle, they may face off against the Avengers early. Or, maybe they are gone by the time the Avengers steal back Loki’s staff and take care of the Baron.

Some footage suggests we will see them pre-experimentation. Above they appear to be pre-powers and in the screen-grabs below it looks like some sort of surgery is taking place… with tools shaped like the tentacles of the Hydra Seal.

Rushing someone to surgery?
Rushing someone to surgery?
'Dem look like Hydra tools to me...
‘Dem look like Hydra tools to me…

However it goes down, Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch end up as allies of Ultron before they join up with the Avengers.

Ultron brings Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver into his lair.
Ultron brings Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver into his lair.
Pietro and Wanda Maximoff Take In Ultron's Lair.
Pietro and Wanda Maximoff Take In Ultron’s Lair.
Later in the film, Quicksilver checks an Ultron drone, saving Captain America. So by the end of the film "the twins" are official, card carrying Avengers!
Later in the film, Quicksilver checks an Ultron drone, saving Captain America. So by the end of the film “the twins” are official, card carrying Avengers!
Siblings stick together, right? (Plus we've seen the twins figting alongside Hawkeye in leaked set photos.)
Siblings stick together, right? (Plus we’ve seen the twins figting alongside Hawkeye in leaked set photos.)

 

What’s Up With The Hulk?

The Hulk looks even more realistic than last time thanks to improved motion capture technology also being used on 'Star Wars: Episode 7.'
The Hulk looks even more realistic than last time thanks to improved motion capture technology also being used on ‘Star Wars: Episode 7.’

Something is going seriously wrong with Bruce Banner and “the other guy:” the incredible Hulk!

First he seems to be collapsing during the assault on the castle, as he is in the same snowy forrest as Hawkeye in the earlier screen-grabs.

What's wrong with Bruce Banner? He looks sickly in all the screen-grabs except at the cocktail party.
What’s wrong with Bruce Banner? He looks sickly in all the photos except at the cocktail party.

And he looks to be in terrible shape on the Quinjet.

Bruce Banner is having some serious issues in 'Age of Ultron.'
Bruce Banner is having some serious issues in ‘Age of Ultron.’

Finally, he’s fighting Iron Man? After causing destruction at what looks to be a European city. (We’re not in New York anymore).

The Hulk fights Iron Man? Or is someone else controlling that suit of armor...
The Hulk fights Iron Man? Or is someone else controlling that suit of armor…?

Yet, he still has time for a gentle moment with Black Widow. Maybe he accidentally Hulks out against the Avengers, requiring Tony to don the Hulkbuster and Black Widow is able to calm him down.Hulk and Black Widow Have A Moment

Ultron isn’t known for mind games; in the comics it is Loki who manipulates the Hulk to be the first Avenger baddie. Perhaps Scarlet Witch uses her powers to turn him against the Avengers and cause mass destruction in this scene and strip him of the Hulk in the snowy forrest?

Or does Tony deserve a Hulk attack? After all, he’s not the only Avenger pissed at Tony Stark. So…

What’s Up With Tony Stark?

Tony Stark seems to be pissing everyone off, based on the trailer.

First, Thor attacks Stark…Thor Attacks Stark

I assume this is retribution for creating Ultron. Or maybe Tony’s done something worse?

Stark is the only one not on the Quinjet. Is he flying Iron Man style instead? Or has he alienated the Avengers... or taken a slightly different stance from them... or is he taking a leave of absence after blaming himself for the creation of Ultron? Again, lots of questions, just speculations for answers.
Stark is the only one not on the Quinjet. Is he flying Iron Man style instead? Or has he alienated the Avengers… or taken a slightly different stance from them… or is he taking a leave of absence after blaming himself for the creation of Ultron? Again, lots of questions, just speculations for answers.

Finally, he does fight the Hulk… maybe…

The Hulkbuster Suit
The Hulkbuster Suit

I predict that Ultron is using his drone controlling powers to control the Hulkbuster armor, just as Tony Stark controls his empty armor remotely in ‘Iron Man 3.’

Unless my predictions of Scarlet Witch manipulation or an Ultron controlled Hulkbuster suit are true… Hulk is on the Avengers side and has been seen fighting alongside them with very little confrontation (with Thor, of course) in the first Avengers film. Maybe it is Tony who is out of line.

How Did Ultron Break Captain America’s Invincible Shield?Captain America's Broken Shield

Capt.’s shield is made from Vibranium, the most invincible metal on Earth (even Thor’s hammer couldn’t break it in ‘The Avengers’). In ‘First Avenger,’ Howard Stark says the S.H.I.E.L.D. is made from all the Vibranium on Earth.

But there is more in the comics… and it all comes from Wakanda, home of the Black Panther.

Some websites assume we will see Black Panther in ‘Age of Ultron,’ but I think that’s more than a long-shot; it’s not going to happen!

How do we even know Wakanda will be featured in the film?

Well, the official summary calls the film a “unique global adventure,” so locations like the snowy European forrest and Wakanda make a lot of sense.

After all, if Capt. hopes to fix his shield or if Ultron hopes to destroy it, then Wakanda and Vibranium are totally in the mix.

Plus there’s this photo of a mysterious character played by Andy Serkis.

Is Andy Serkis playing Ulysses Klaw?
Is Andy Serkis playing Ulysses Klaw?
Ulysses Klaw as seen in the comics.
Ulysses Klaw as seen in the comics.

As the photos show, Serkis looks a lot like Klaw.

Klaw is a Black Panther villain, but I don’t think his appearance means we will see Black Panther (he may be name-dropped, like Stephen Strange in ‘Captain America: Winter Soldier’). I think Klaw may be doing a job for Ultron…

Ultron's hand cannot be melted. Does that mean he's made of Vibranium? Or is this a scene where Klaw coats his body in Vibranium?
Ultron’s hand cannot be melted. Does that mean he’s made of Vibranium? Or is this a scene where Klaw coats his body in Vibranium?

It is doubtful a villain like Klaw, who does specialize in Vibranium – the reason he lives in Wakanda – would help the Avengers fix Captain America’s shield. But it is totally feasible that Ultron hires (or forces) him to give the robot a fresh coat of the indestructible metal.

How does one break a shield made of the stuff then? Well, in ‘The Wolverine,’ Wolvie’s Adamantium claws are cut off by the Silver Samurai using heated Adamantium. Perhaps Ultron uses a similar tactic to break Capt.’s shield? Because if Thor’s hammer doesn’t destroy the thing, how can a punch from Ultron do it?

Ultron and the Places They Go

Entertainment WeeklyAs originally described in Entertainment Weekly’s ‘Age of Ultron’ cover story months back, Ultron is not just a machine, he is a consciousness on the cloud that can control a number of drones, like the one below.

Waterproof DroneThe trailer features dozens of these drones attacking another old-school, stone, European structure, that does look to be different than Baron Strucker’s castle. One that, on the inside, might look like this…

The Avengers wait for a drone siege?
The Avengers wait for a drone siege?

That has the Avengers in New York at Avengers Tower, a stop in what is likely Germany for Baron Strucker’s castle, some time in Europe/Eastern Europe where the Hulk fights the Hulkbuster, Wakanda, and this other European looking stone structure.

The Avengers are covering more ground than James Bond, which is especially exciting considering they spent the first film entirely in the United States.

As for Ultron, he may have many drones and start out as a freaky looking suit, but he finally reaches his full potential (with Vibranium?) and ends up looking like this…Ultron Hi Res Head Cocked

Of course, some sort of finale happens with all the Avengers, including Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver, against this final incarnation of Ultron and perhaps an entire army of drones.

The Avengers may have their differences again in this film - Stark pisses off Thor, the Hulk fights Stark (maybe...), and the Twins hate the Avengers -but Earth's Mightiest Heroes must join together to defeat the world's biggest threat.
The Avengers may have their differences again in this film – Stark pisses off Thor, the Hulk fights Stark (maybe…), and the Twins hate the Avengers -but Earth’s Mightiest Heroes must join together to defeat the world’s biggest threat eventually…

Even though he was absent in the trailer, Vision will be in the film as seen in the upper left corner of the above Comic Con exclusive poster. He’s that dude hovering in the air. Ultron makes this robot companion using Tony’s J.A.R.V.I.S. artificial intelligence, only to have it eventually turn on him like Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch.

Will We See Nick Fury?

Nick Fury in 'Avengers: Age of Ultron'Nick Fury had to fake his death in ‘Winter Soldier’ and ‘stayed dead’ after the film. But he does make some sort of appearance in the film, though it has been said that it will be a much smaller role than in ‘The Avengers’ or ‘Winter Soldier.’

Who knows what role his character will play in all this.

Finally…

What’s This About the 1940s?

There is one screen-grab that looks like Captain America back home in the 1940s.Captain America Flashback

Some suggest that Scarlet Witch’s powers could cause Rogers to have a false perception that he is back in the past, putting him out of commission. After all, like manipulating the Hulk, the Avengers are easier to fight when they are not “assembled.”

I bet it’s a flash back. The summary from Marvel also reads ‘When Tony Stark tries to jumpstart a dormant peacekeeping program, things go awry.’ It is assumed Hank Pym, who we will not see until August 2015 in ‘Ant-Man’ may have created the program initially as he creates Ultron in the comics. But, if it was Steve Rogers’ old friend Howard Stark who attempted to start the program in the 40’s, then a flashback with the Capt. makes sense.Captain America assesses destruction in Age of Ultron

Do I have all the answers? Obviously not. But I think I’ve made a few good points based on the material Marvel Studios has provided in the form of that excellent new trailer.

All questions and assumptions will be answered on May 1st!

AVENGERS ASSEMBLE!!!

Podcast #7: The Reapening – Ultron Comes To ‘Gotham’


Nick and Andrew are back after a summer hiatus! Plans of discussing the brand new  ‘Avengers: Age Of Ultron’ trailer and the TV show ‘Gotham’ are often derailed by the excitement 2015 bring-ith.

Ultron stands aside Scarlet Witch and Quicksiler
Ultron stands aside Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver
Captain America in Age of Ultron
Capt, runs from flying cars!

Some more screen grabs from the epic trailer posted previously.

Age of Ultron Avengers Asunder
Bruce Banner/ Hulk gets seriously spooked!
No Strings
Creepy-Ass string-less robot!
Hulk V. Hulkbuster
… And Hulk Vs. The Hulkbuster!

AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON Trailer & Poster Have Arrived!!! “There are no strings on me.”


Watch now! Talk later!

Watch again! We talk later!

Oh… and new poster…

The new 'Age of Ultron' teaser poster.
The new ‘Age of Ultron’ teaser poster.

Look familiar?

OG Avengers Poster for 1st Film
OG Avengers Poster for 1st Film

Hulkbuster out!

Hulkbuster: Tony Stark running it? Or Ultron?
Hulkbuster: Tony Stark running it? Or Ultron?

Podcast #6: This Is CAPTAIN AMERICA’S Podcast, Dammit!


Gadzooks! SPOILERS be poppin’ as Nick and Andrew dive into The First Avenger’s Second Fight (aka CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER). The two use their Marvel and comics know-how to examine the film and what it means for the Marvel Cinematic Universe and AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON.

Podcast #4: Nick Makes A Grave Mistake


Nick and Andrew discuss AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON’s first look at Scarlet Witch, Quicksilver, and Ultron. Nick gets a little politically incorrect, while the pair learns they don’t know the difference between Tom Selleck and Burt Reynolds.

 

AVENGERS 2’s New Avengers Revealed: Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver


We now have set pics of Marvel Studios’ latest addition to their AVENGERS super franchise.

Meet Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch!

The children of Magneto…. who is owned by Fox… so we’ll get a changed origin? The are mutants after all, something we have yet to see in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Check out Quicksilver here.Avengers 2's QuicksilverLet’s just say… I’m not impressed. In fact, the combo of his face and the trademark silver hair look silly.

But if you are to hit the jump, I have pictures of Scarlett Witch for you!

Continue reading “AVENGERS 2’s New Avengers Revealed: Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver”