Captain America: Civil War (2016) REVIEW

Civil War is based around the aftermath of previous the Avengers outings - despite the fact they ultimately save the world, there is always serious collateral damage!
Tony Stark (Robert Downey Junior) is particularly effected by this when a woman confronts him - she is mother who lost her son as a result of the collapse of Sokovia. Things get worse when a mission by the team results in more casualties in Nigeria at the hand of Scarlett Witch (Elizabeth Olsen).
Of course, the U.N have been watching this from a far and the Government decide the Avengers need to sign a document to make the more accountable for their actions, and regulated. Iron Man agrees straight away as he feels they have already gotten away with a heck of a lot, however Captain America (Chris Evans) does not agree. He wants the Avengers to be able to reign free to save the world, not under the governments orders. He also wants to protect his pal, Bucky AKA the Winter Soldier. So, a rift it formed, and sides are taken. With some new faces joining along the way - enter Spiderman and Black Panther, this battle has the potential to change everything....
The Russo brothers, back directing again have built a film with clear arcs, strong set pieces and a mood of excitement, but also a new level of maturity. At 2 and a half hours the film does sometimes feel too long - I did feel too much time was given to Bucky, rather then Cap himself.
The stakes are definitely higher here, however in all honestly - without giving any spoilers, the last act didn't have quite the punch I wanted it to.
The serious tone of course does zap some of the usual Marvel vibrancy, I have to admit I was missing the big green guy! However, this is by far the most solid Marvel movie to date, it has almost 10 years of foundations in other films, and it shows.
Chris Evans and RDJ have such a believable rapport that by the end, you don't know who's side to take which I feel is the way the Russo's wanted it. Life isn't always Black or White.
A strong, exhilarating movie just as much about friendship than saving the world. Can't wait for Infinity War. 8.5/10