Besides being a terrific sequel to Captain America: The First Avenger, Winter Soldier is just an absolutely pulsatingly exciting action film. The set pieces from the initial night raid on the boat through to the arguably somewhat over the top carrier v carrier ending, are just brilliantly rendered and all so varied.

I love the way the Captain's story has progressed along with that of Black Widow. It makes sense that they would be thrown together in this film as neither has any sort of regular family. The introduction of Falcon was welcome and focusing quite a large element of the story around Nick Fury, also added depth to his character, whilst throwing a light on Shield operations past and present. At the same time, introducing the Winter Soldier into the mix added what is almost a touch of Shakespearian tragedy to a super-hero espionage film.

For me, Captain America is the most interesting of the Avengers.We see him adjusting and adapting to life after a 70 year jump, whilst simaltaneously missing a life time of companionship with hs one true love Peggy Carter. It all serves to accentuate his humanity, which we see again when he continually questions the actions and ethics of those with whom he continuously has to deal.

This is everything a big budget super hero film should be. Great job Russo Brothers!