“Black Widow” is available to watch in theaters or on Disney +.
Cate Shortland’s long-awaited addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, “Back Widow” has finally made its theatrical debut. The film mixes established characters and explosive action in a globe-trotting adventure. Johansson makes her likely final appearance as the titular hero in a story that delves into past and future events in the elaborate universe.
Fresh off the events of “Captain America: Civil War” Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson), now a political fugitive, must go into hiding and begin anew after violating the Sokovia Accords. However, her past catches up with her; Natasha must dive back into a dangerous conspiracy, confront the red in her ledger, and outrun an unstoppable force.
Cate Shortland makes her MCU debut alongside a star-studded cast that includes Rachel Weisz, Florence Pugh, David Harbour, OT Fagbenle, and Ray Winstone. Shortland brings these exciting characters together in a way that explains who they are while keeping the explosive action moving.
Johansson once again slips into the role of the Russian spy with ease. She delivers a brilliant performance, making her eighth appearance as the trained assassin the perfect way to end Natasha’s story within the MCU. Florence Pugh’s Marvel debut allows the talented actress to show off her vast range; she brings the character of Yelena Belova (fellow “Black Widow” assassin) to the screen. Pugh’s performance is comedic and emotional. She has a sister-like bond with Natasha that mixes some much-needed comedy into the film’s dark subject matter.
The film’s post-credits scene implies that Marvel intends to bring Yelena into the Disney+ series “Hawkeye,” which should arrive Fall of 2021. So fans of the blonde assassin shouldn’t have to wait long before seeing her back in the universe.
Scarlett Johannson, David Harbour, and Florence Pugh in “Black Widow.” Photo: Marvel Studios, 2021.
Like every other Marvel production, “Black Widow” does a splendid job referencing MCU past and future, providing context for previous references. But the film also gives viewers a much-needed insight into Natasha’s past life.
Despite Marvel’s impressive track record in the visual effects department, “Black Widow” doesn’t appear to be up to par with the numerous other projects that came before it. But Natalie Abizadeh brings her talent to the screen; she provides each character with attractive yet practical hairstyles that range from intricate braids to simplistic ponytails.
Even though “Black Widow” is a Marvel production and comes from a studio most notably known for their big-budget, explosive blockbusters, it still manages to deal with incredibly deep themes such as family, free will, and human nature. Shortland features shots of fireflies at both the start and end of the film; these insects resonate with themes such as hope and guidance. But fireflies also have a secondary meaning and can relate to the importance of our internal character. In Natasha’s case, this is something the character struggles to deal with.
If you’re new to watching Marvel’s vast, interconnected universe, then “Black Widow” might not be the best place to start for numerous reasons. This is for several reasons. First, a majority of viewers will already know the events of the Russo Brothers’ “Avengers: Endgame” finale. But also, there’s a plethora of minor details and references that may fly straight over audiences’ heads.
Marvel gives Natasha a good backstory for her likely final appearance. Photo: Marvel Studios, 2021.
The stunt choreography is a fresh take on what viewers have previously seen, with no vibranium shields or telekinetic powers. All these characters have to rely on is mundane weapons and their surroundings (e.g. furniture/ home decor). This is best seen in an apartment fight where Natasha and Yelena attempt to strangle each other with a curtain. The fact these characters don’t have hi-tech weaponry gives it a sense of realism and adds another layer of tension. But viewers are moved to the edge of their seats wondering who will win.
Overall, “Black Widow” is a film that is a balanced mix of hilarious comedy, emotional drama and explosive action, led by a stellar cast that each provides brilliant performances in a film that contributes to the MCU in more ways than one. Cate Shortland gifts viewers a heartfelt goodbye to the titular character in the 24th addition to the forever-growing Marvel universe.
