Avengers: Endgame – A Youthworker’s Review

By Todd Pearage • New Hanover UMC • Gilbertsville, PA

Rated PG-13 for sequences of sci-fi violence and action, and some language. Directed by Anthony Russo, Joe Russo. Starring Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Paul Rudd, Benedict Cumberbatch, Chadwick Boseman, Brie Larson, and  Tom Holland

Well, it’s been a while since I have reviewed a film and I think it’s only fitting that the most entertaining movie I have seen in a long time is what brought us back together.

In full disclosure, I classify myself as a pseudo-comic book nerd. I can’t tell you who drew issue number 57 of the Amazing Spiderman, but I do know most of the characters and enjoy reading about their backstories. I have read a few comic books over the years and I have thoroughly enjoyed the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

I can remember walking out of the theater after seeing Iron Manand knew Marvel was onto something special. Now, ten years and 21 films later, it truly has been an amazing adventure.

So let’s talk a little bit about Endgame… without any spoilers! 

The first thing I’d love to talk about is the story. It’s smart, well-written, and very engaging. There are more than a handful of memorable scenes that caused the audience to erupt in cheers. Even with a runtime of over three hours, the pace and story keep moving from beginning to end. 

Get “ready to use” movie resources for 20+ movies!

Another strong feature of Endgameis the humor. I can’t even tell you how many times I laughed out loud. There are great sight gags and slapstick, but it’s the quick wit and perfect timing that makes the laughs flow freely.

There’s more than just humor in this film – there is an emotional element to it that surprised me. I wasn’t surprised that it was in there – it surprised me on how much it affected me. But that is the mark of a great story, right? 

Then there are the characters. And there are a LOT of characters. The MCU has flawlessly developed the characters over the last ten years so it is not surprising that many of them grab a hold of our hearts stronger than expected. Maybe it’s just me, but I found myself caring about them in an almost irrational way – but without regret. 

If you’re a fan of the Marvel films I’m willing to guarantee you’ll love Endgame. Like I said in the beginning, it was the most entertaining film I’ve seen in a long time.

WHAT YOUTH WORKERS/PARENTS SHOULD KNOW

There are no sex scenes or nudity in the film. 

There are a lot of “fighting scenes” but very little gore or blood. There is one scene where a character is beheaded and another when a few scenes where a character makes the ultimate sacrifice for others. 

There is some profanity in Endgame.  

The themes of family and sacrifice are woven throughout the film and here are a few questions to ask your student/child after the film:

1. What can Endgame teach us about sacrifice?
2. When was the last time you sacrificed something you wanted for someone else?
3. Read Hebrews 13:16– Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. What are some ways you can live out this verse?