Themes of agency over-reach and secret kill programs gives "The Winter Soldier" topicality, and the intrigue and mistrust adds urgency and interest, but it's the action sequences that are the real stars. Brother directors Anthony and Joe Russo ("You, Me and Dupree," "Arrested Development") have staged each sequence with clarity and care. But it's the editing team of Jeffrey Ford and Matthew Schmidt, the guys who also edited "The Avengers" and "Iron Man 3," who make it possible for us to believe that a guy with nothing more than a vibranium shield can take down a sophisticated flying fortress single handedly. And there's a car chase that's faster and more furious than any in recent memory.
Chris Evans and Scarlett Johansson, both supernaturally attractive, keep us interested throughout, and uniformly outstanding supporting roles leave no chinks in this armor-plated juggernaut of a movie. Samuel L. Jackson returns as boss Nick Fury, and for once is totally engaged. Sebastian Stan, as Steve Rogers' old friend Bucky Barnes, returns in a surprising role. Newcomer Anthony Mackie as Falcon proves he can fly with the best of them as the operator of some incredible man-made wings. But the best is Robert Redford who lends heft and instant credibility as a top leader of S.H.I.E.L.D., the super-CIA agency the heroes all think they work for.
With this film Captain America is now firmly established in the blockbuster pantheon, and I'm happy to know that this team is already working on the next installment, planned for 2016. Other mega-budget super-heroes are coming of course. Most major studios are placing big bets (each $200 million plus) on their franchises, and the field is getting crowded. Warner has the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel. Fox has a lock on the X-Men. Sony is backing Spider-Man with spin-offs. Disney acquired Marvel and has proven it can keep multiple heroes producing mega ticket sales. But for how long? Surely at some point the audience appetite will be sated. For now though, it's a great ride.
