Marvel's 'The Avengers' set the bar awfully high, and up until now their so-called "Phase 2" had clumsily done the limbo right beneath it. 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier' doesn't reach the dizzying heights of 'The Avengers', but it delivers a thrilling, fun, thoughtful film that manages to both build upon the Avengers cinematic universe and yet stand on its own.

What I really love about 'Winter Soldier' is that, at its heart, it's a 70s-style political conspiracy thriller. As if to drive that point home, they cast Robert Redford, who adds a real dimension of gravitas to the film. Of course the movie is called 'Captain America', and Cap is in fine Form here. Evans really owns the role now, bringing a quiet integrity as well as the physical goods.

My enthusiasm for Mighty Marvel's cinematic Lollapalooza had started to flag, but now I'm more excited than ever for 'Avengers 2'.

Avengers, assemble!