Open Topic - Reflection #9

For this weeks open topic, I decided to reflect on the upcoming superhero movie, The Avengers. More specifically, I wanted to discuss some of the foreseeable problems some of the superheroes/characters might have when they are forced to work together in order to save the world. Each character on the team has some sort of flaw that will effect the team's overall ability.


Iron Man
Iron Man is sort of a complex character. Born average, he grew up into a super genius who develops a highly advanced suit that gives him the ability to fly, protects himself, and gives him advantages in combat. Although his "powers" seem perfect and controllable, the character behind Iron Man is far from that. Tony Stark is, deep down, a very arrogant, controlling, and selfish individual. He strives on attention and attempts to show off at any possible moment. This will be a huge issue for the team, especially if the task cannot be handled by one man. Tony has never had the experience of sharing the glory and working with others, so that will be an issue he has to face in the film. After pushing through these issues, I see Iron Man being one of the main leader figures.

Thor
Thor's character had a bumpy development throughout his film. First he was a show-off, battle-ready, power-hungry son of a god, then very soon learned that his previous characteristics caused him to be banished from his home. In order to gain his powers back, he was forced to prove himself worthy and change his attitude about life. This development will help the team in the long run, because they won't have to focus on teaching Thor to be a "team player". Thor will be ready to make the morally sound choice for the betterment of the team. His father was able to show him that fighting isn't always the right thing to do, but there are times when it is necessary. I feel this characteristic will show through in the new film.

Captain America
Captain America is going to have a much different experience working on the team compared to the other members. This is because he has a disadvantage that none of the other characters face: culture shock. Captain America is nearly perfect in his character's morality and control of powers. He gained his powers because of his personality, and he excels at every heroic task handed to him. The only problem he will face in the new film is the culture shock. Being asleep for 70 years, things in society have changed dramatically. Some stories tell that people who face a massive culture change often go into shock and turn "crazy". Although I don't think this would ever happen in the movie, the fact that Captain America is in a foreign time will certainly prove to be a drawback. However his personality and powers will certainly be positive for the team.

My lack of knowledge of the other characters of the team prevented me from commenting on their contribution and the problems they might face. Hulk will probably experience anger issues and troubles coping with the team members. As for Green Hornet, I have no previous knowledge of the character, so will be unable to comment on him.


Overall, the movie should be filled with character development, plot twists, and plenty of action.