With a snappy script, flawless casting, and outstanding special effects, it is no wonder that “The Avengers” has captured the attention of fans and critics alike.

The film follows a team of superheroes, thrown together by a secret organization known as S.H.I.E.L.D. in order to save the world from the wrath of one of the most evil beings in the universe: the God of Mischief, Loki.

Heading the group is Captain America (portrayed by heartthrob Chris Evans), a super-soldier from the forties who was frozen in ice for seventy years. Iron Man (the always-delightful Robert Downey Jr.) and Thor (Chris Hemsworth, whose biceps alone could carry the movie) stand at his side, assisted by Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo)- or, as he’s better known, The Hulk. Black Widow (Scarlet Johansson) and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) complete the team, two S.H.I.E.L.D. agents with many secrets between them.

The dialogue is quick and witty, with jokes flying right after intense action sequences or deep emotional moments. The entire movie is the best sort of rushed and jumbled, making the action and storyline seem natural rather than forced.

Robert Downey Jr. is by far the most enjoyable to watch, managing to convey deprecation, anger, and vulnerability while still maintaining his signature Tony Stark sarcasm. He bounces off the other cast member like he was born to do so, and no one is safe from his teasing (on more than one occasion, he tells Captain America that he “doesn’t look too bad for an old guy.”) Samuel L. Jackson is also a pleasure to watch, playing the team’s de facto commander Nick Fury. His stolid and stable personality provides a foil for the other cast members, making their jokes all that much more amusing.

All in all, “The Avengers” is one of the best movies of the year, and shouldn’t be missed by anyone. Just make sure to stay after the credits for not one, but TWO extra scenes. It’s worth it.

4.8 out of 5 stars.

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