WTVQ ABC 36 REVIEW: Black Widow provides great action, thrilling story

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – After 11 years and seven movies, Scarlett Johansson’s Black Widow finally gets her own spotlight.

The character of Natasha Romanoff has been a staple in the Marvel Cinematic Universe since 2010’s Iron Man 2. Fans have followed the character through so many conflicts with aliens and robots, but have never gotten a deep dive into her past.

Now, Marvel’s first theatrical release since 2019’s Spider-Man: Far From Home not only gives Black Widow the focus, but brings together new characters who are sure to leave an impact from this point on.

The movie takes place between Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War, finding Natasha on the run from the U.S. government. However, her history comes back to haunt her and she must work with those from her past to take down the forces who made her who she is.

Johansson does an amazing job in her latest performance as the titular superhero.

Not only does she bring the personality and charm that have made fans fall in love with her character, but the work she puts into every action sequence is stellar. The way that she balances the story with the physicality needed gives the film a spy thriller feel along the lines of the Bourne movies.

At the same time, Black Widow is not the only standout character in this latest Marvel entry.

Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova provides a great counter to Johansson and makes an impact every time she is on screen.

David Harbour plays the former Russian superhero known as Red Guardian and adds great moments of levity to the film. Rachel Weisz is another great addition Melina, a Russian scientist and mother figure for Natasha and Yelena.

The big question for some hard-core fans may be the timing. While every aspect of it works and provided an entertaining experience, it is hard not to imagine how great it would have been five years ago, maybe released in the middle of the two movies it takes place between.

Yet, this “What if?” scenario does not take away from the emotional effect that Black Widow will have on general audiences as well as Marvel fans.

All in all, Black Widow feels like a must-see movie for this summer season.

The explosive action, gripping performances and engaging story is sure to serve exactly what viewers need as they return to the movies.

For those who are not sure about returning to theaters, the movie is also available on Disney Plus. Regardless of how you watch it, be prepared for a fun time and to admire Scarlett Johansson’s best outing as the beloved Avenger.

— HAGAN WELLS, WTVQ ABC 36 News Film Buff