By now many of us will have seen it. Many of us will know that after, 22 films and 11 years, the Russo Brothers have pulled off the impossible with a breath-taking, fan-pleasing, roller-coaster finale. We will know that Endgames is more than a last bow for the characters we love: it’s the final piece in the puzzle. A film that not only ties up a hundreds of plot threads, but manages to do so while giving us a fair dose of what we wanted. We will know that Endgames finally gives all those great actors— who are usually required to do little beyond striking a pose—a chance to show that they can wrench our heart-strings and make us believe. And we will know that while the MCU hasn’t always been as inclusive as it should be, the final-battle proves just how far the brand has come from the days when it was all white guys in tights.
Avengers: Endgame is everything we wanted and much, much more. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling and what’s possible when creatives are allowed to get on with the job. Not every movie in the MCU has been a hit—and considering how important some of the ‘lesser’ characters turn out to be in Endgame—it’s fantastic that Marvel has never been bullied by fandom. If they had, we’d probably all be watching Iron Man 13 now instead.
So, what can this review possibly tell you without spoilers? One thing: you won’t be disappointed. There’s action—staggering, whoop-inspiring scenes— that will leave you reeling. There’s heart aplenty. You’ll laugh. And you’ll cry. Seriously. Take tissues. And, once the dust has settled, you’ll probably want to see it again.
Which is good because Avengers: Endgame is only the second Hollywood film to be shot exclusively with IMAX cameras (the first was Infinity War). Which means that only IMAX audiences will experience the full-scale visuals and emotional impact the way the Russo Brothers intended. In fact, IMAX offers up to 26 percent more picture than audiences will see in a standard cinema.
The biggest cinema event of the decade really does deserve to be seen on the biggest screen. But however you see it, do see it. Endgames isn’t just another Marvel movie. It’s THE Marvel movie. There are no cookies. No extra scenes at the end to pimp up the next film. The ride stops here—for now. But boy what a ride.