This weekend I took my 7.5 year old to his first Marvel movie in the theater. We were lucky to see Doctor Strange in Dobly Cinema at the Town Square 18 AMC here in Las Vegas at it was so amazing. Walking into the theater we were greeted by a brilliant preview of the movie in the entry to the theater. My son said “WOW”! I think he summed that up really well!

We were running a little bit behind and so I wanted us to get to our seats quickly so that I could run back out for some snacks. The hallways are nice and wide and the aisles and seat numbers are really well marked. We quickly found our luxury recliner seats and my son got comfortable really quickly. I love that we were able to put the arm rest between our two seats up and snuggle under a blanket together the whole movie. I love the bigger seats even if you aren’t reclining or snuggling with the person next to you because it gives you the right amount of room to shift through the movie without disturbing the people around you as well.

The Movie Review

Even those who aren’t fully up to date on the Marvel Comics world have likely heard of Doctor Stephen Strange, but it is true that he likely didn’t have the cultural appeal of say a Hulk or a Captain America so an average fan might not know his full back story. Marvel did a wonderful job explaining Stephen Strange’s origin story, and new fans will discover how a once prominent neurosurgeon turned into a sorcerer.

For an origin story, I thought that The film is well paced throughout and even paves the way for Doctor Strange to become a key figure in future Marvel Studio movies. While I was told by my sister in law that this connection varies from the comics, we both understood that it was the easiest way to make it work for the movie.

This film is visually stunning! Marvel was able to create a power that transcends time, space, and even dimension and share it in a completely thrilling and actually beautiful way. My sister in law pointed out to me, and I think she really nailed it on the head – the effects used to represent this is something similar to taking Inception and mixing in a bit of The Sorcerer’s Apprentice. What is even more amazing is that the audience will not only enjoy the effects, but it really was done in a way that allowed them to believe in the powers shown on the screen and see how these alternate realities just might exist. Seeing it in Dolby Cinema only enhanced the visual believability of the movie.

 Is Doctor Strange okay for Kids?

Doctor Strange plays on much the same level as the other Marvel films. If you have had no issue letting your child see any of the other Marvel films, then you should not have an issue with this movie, but I also agree with the PG 13 rating. The storyline is specific to adult issues, which a younger viewer may become bored with, but the effects are definitely enough to keep them entertained. There is a very intense, but well-shot beheading in the first few minutes of the movie, so if you are taking young children it that will be the worst of anything they will see. (Not a spoiler I can assure you). As an audience, we watch the moments right up until the actual beheading, but the camera diverts away to see it show as a shadow instead of it actually it taking place directly on seen.

We both loved this movie. The cinematic effects, the story line, and the humor typical of a Marvel movie really me over. Being honest, I wasn’t sure what to expect with Doctor Strange, but by now I think I just have to trust that Marvel Studios know what they are doing. I’m so glad I got to enjoy a mommy-son date night to the movies in Dolby Cinema. I can’t wait to watch many more movies in this stunning AMC theater. Find a Dolby Cinema at AMC theater near you!

We were provided compensation and tickets to this event in exchange for our honest review of the theater and movie. 

The long awaited Captain America film is now a reality for Marvel fans all across the country. Whether you’re a Marvel comics fan or simply a Marvel movie fan, you have already chosen a side. Even if only a little bit. Team Captain America or Team Iron Man, it won’t change how fantastic this movie actually is.

Marvel’s Captain America Civil War Movie Review from a Geeky Girl’s Guide @OurKnightLife
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Marvel Studios has managed to hit a home run once again, which is the crazy kind of film science that shouldn’t be happening. They should be due for a flop. Oddly, I think Ant-Man or The Incredible Hulk is about the closest they have come to a flop, and those movies are actually pretty decent. I don’t know what magical formula Marvel Studios has come up with, but they need to keep it locked up tight.

Captain America: Civil War is a civil war between heroes and most importantly friends. I am sure you have seen the trailers by now and at least enough of the marketing hype to know that Steve Rodgers and Tony Stark have come to a disagreement. A disagreement over the most challenging concept for a superhero, doing the right thing. After a tragic event that shakes the world’s trust in not only the Avengers, but all superheroes, Captain America and his fellow teammates are forced to make a choice. This choice causes a ripple effect, and friend quickly turns into foe. It is never an easy fight when both sides believe they are fighting for the right purpose.

The Russo Brothers return to direct Captain America: Civil War, sparing no opportunity for the high adrenaline action that we enjoyed from Captain America: Winter Soldier. So much so, you might feel a bit winded by the end of the movie. Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr reprise their roles as our beloved Avengers to bring, not only entertaining action and comedy, but intense drama as the feud between Iron Man and Cap heats up. The special effects are so ridiculous that during a Tony Stark scene I had trouble believing that the scene wasn’t in fact real.

Marvel still knows how to bring in the crowds for these films, and a lot of it has to do with the variety of characters it has to offer. While many fan favorite characters show up from past Marvel Studio films, Civil War offers a few new faces with Black Panther and Spider-Man. There was enough care to engage the audience with subtle characterization, that while we may not know everything about them, we will happily await their respective upcoming films to learn that much more. Black Panther and Spider-man looked good, really good. The costumes were just right and subtle with a dash of realism, following suit with the other Mavel Studios established characters. While these two characters have been pretty public knowledge for this movie, Civil War still has a couple of surprises up its sleeve that will excite both new and old audiences.

Comic fans do not distress. Outside of the most basic form of the plot line and catalysts of the comic counterpart, this movie is really not related to the comic storyline at all. It takes on its own fresh version of the famous superhero feud that fits well within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Being a comic fan myself, I had a lot of concerns when this was originally announced as a film plot, mostly due to the sheer vastness of superheroes that were involved in the comic story line. As with the MCU’s take on Ultron, these changes actually worked in the film’s favor.

Since many of these films are hopeful family events, my opinion for an age limit would be around 11 or 10. There is not gore in the movie, but the movie’s actions scenes are just so intense that I wouldn’t feel comfortable with a child younger than that. The general opinion of Captain America: Winter Soldier is that the fights scenes and action were top notch. This immediately changed the tone into something grittier compared to the first Captain America movie. Step that kind of action up about five more levels, and you will be about where Civil War is.

Captain America: Civil War has it all. Action, comedy, drama, and a colorful wardrobe. In the end you may not want to pick a side, but you should definitely pick a seat in your nearest theater to take in this summer blockbuster.

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CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR is now playing in theatres everywhere!

So Ant-Man hits the big screens today, and unless you consider yourself a Marvel Comics enthusiast, you’re probably asking yourself, “Who is Ant-Man?” And the small portion of you with bug fear is probably now asking, “Wait, does that mean there are going to be ants in the movie?” I’m afraid so, and a lot at that. They’re not menacing, I promise, quite cute actually. Hopefully that hasn’t scared you away. No judgment from me. I have snake fear, and a disclaimer is always appreciated.

If you have braved through the bug issues long enough to continue with me, then let’s get down to talking about Marvel Studios’ latest addition, Ant-Man. It is the story of two very different gentlemen. One, the golden aged Dr. Hank Pym, is on top of a scientific empire that has long since evolved past him and holding a very tiny secret close to the chest. The other, newly released ex-con Scott Lang, stands before the very bottom of his life, a life he has to build with nothing but futile scraps to reach a place where he can not only be with his young daughter, but be worthy of her. With both lives on the verge of falling apart, Dr. Pym offers both men a solution, an alliance that not only will solve both men’s problems, but just might save the world in the process. Plus, ants.

I’ll be completely honest. This was the first Marvel Studios film that I was really hesitant about seeing. This film has had a rough start since day one. Several setbacks from pushed back filming dates to Edgar Wright dropping out as director. Even casting became questionable when they announced they were going to make a Scott Lang Ant-Man story and have an aged Dr. Hank Pym. Comic book fans understand the last point, and I will elaborate on it a bit later. If there was ever going to a Marvel Studios movie that would flop, Ant-Man was surely showing itself as a contender.

Turns out Ant-Man is a fun and extremely entertaining movie. It is very humorous. I did not expect how comedic it would be. Subtract a fight scene or two and this could be classified as a comedy. I expected some laughs with the use of Edgar Wright‘s initial contribution to the script. Edgar Wright is known for his collaboration with Simon Pegg and Nick Frost on films, Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and The World’s End. All three are very comedic films with a bit of action mixed in. Once you add actor Paull Rudd’s comedic talents not only on screen, but with finishing the script along with comedic director and writer alum, Adam McKay, you have a very different Marvel movie. Michael Douglas’s performance as Dr. Hank Pym balanced with Paul Rudd’s Scott Lang handled the comedy with grace that only years of experience and talent could allow. Definitely, comic book and non-comic book lovers will find enjoying this film not exactly a difficult task.

As for comic book hesitations, I can smooth some of that out for you. I had a lot more issues with Ant-Man before I saw Avengers: Age of Ultron. This being mainly due to having an Ultron, but no Dr. Hank Pym. In most comic book variations of the Ultron storyline, Tony Stark supplied the technology that made up Ultron, but Dr. Hank Pym created the artificial intelligence that made Ultron. Without going into great detail concerning the Avengers: Age of Ultron movie, they basically replaced the man with an object, and it made sense in that film. That eased some of the troubled waters for me, but I still didn’t understand why Marvel chose the old man D. Hank Pym to make Scott Lang Ant-Man. Dr. Hank Pym was on the original Avengers in the comics. It initially seemed off to slide line him like this. This really ends up not mattering when you see the movie. The story flows well, makes sense, and just simply keeps you laughing.

As for bringing the little ones along, Ant-Man is rated PG-13. Your discretion will be needed to determine what your child can and cannot handle. I would rate this film along the lines of the first Thor film with a little less violence and a lot more comedy. Thor is currently considered the least violent of all the current Marvel Studio’s movies. The jokes aren’t too bad either when dealing with adult content. It is there, but nothing like Guardians of the Galaxy. My six year-old nephew has seen some of the Marvel movies based on what his parents believe he can handle, THOR  being a favorite. I immediately recommended that he could see Ant-Man.

This can be a great stop for the whole family and can add laughter to your summer fun and a welcome reprieve from the summer heat. Make your movie choice this weekend, Ant-Man. You will not regret it.

Whether or not your child is old enough to go see the new Avengers movie – Avengers: Age of Ultron, they are likely already swept up in Marvel superhero fever.

This fever is spreading across the country in pandemic proportions and can be diagnosed with this symptom check list:

1. Desire to buy, wear, and be all things Superhero all day every day.

2. Refusal to be called by their first names – instead insisting on being:

• Saluted and called Captain America,
• Fist bumped and answering only to Hulk,
• Growing their hair to match the long locks of Thor,
• An increased desire to tinker and take apart all machines to see how they work while simultaneously pretending to answer phone calls with “Stark here.”

3. Refusing to sleep by simply stating – superheroes don’t have time to sleep – they have to be ready to save the world at all times

If your child is exhibiting any or all of these symptoms please proceed to the nearest printer – and give them these coloring sheets ASAP!

To print these pictures simply right click and save them to your computer!

Once you got them printed all you have to do is assemble your avengers! This should be easily done by simply raising your voice and yelling:

AVENGERS ASSEMBLE!

All of your favorite Avengers are back and hit the ground running in the very first scene. Captain America leads his fellow teammates, Iron Man, Thor, the Hulk, Black Widow, and Hawkeye, against the villainous creation, Ultron. The Avengers are forced to face one of their biggest challenges yet: their deepest, darkest fears. The only question remaining is whether or not they can face them in time to stop Ultron from destroying the world.

Joss Whedon once again takes the driver’s seat for this momentous blockbuster proving for a second time just why legions of fans idolize his every action. His love of comics and Marvel are proven again as Avengers: Age of Ultron becomes another affectionate love letter. Whedon creates a well-balanced film that not only showcases some amazing visuals and action sequences, but a more dramatic and grittier side that just adds to the development of the characters. This is especially true with the Black Widow and Hawkeye.

Scarlett Johansson – Black Widow (Above) Jeremy Renner – Hawkeye (Below)

Natasha Romanoff and Clint Barton have yet to be blessed with their own standalone movies. Their roles as supporting characters have kept much of their background nonexistent in past films. Whedon opens up their stories enough to allow some larger insight into each’s characterization, allowing the viewer to get to know the two a little better. The best part? Whedon does this and balances it just enough that it does not take away from the main focus of the film. It isn’t a joke when critics say that Whedon has a knack with working with large ensemble casts.

(From left to right) Chris Hemsworth – Thor, Robert Downey Jr – Tony Stark, Chris Evans – Captain America

I would love to talk about Mr. Evans, Mr. Hemsworth, and Mr. Downey Jr., but they honestly have their roles down and should give nothing short of amazing performances after as many films that they each have under their individual belts. No, the ones to watch this time around are Scarlet Johansson and Jeremy Renner and also Mark Ruffalo. In Mr. Ruffalo’s case, this becomes the first time that an actor has played Bruce Banner twice for a movie, and he solidifies the reason why he should continue to do more.  Two other characters, the Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver, are played by well-known, versatile actors, Arron Taylor-Johnson and Elizabeth Olsen. Both are exceptional additions to the cast as well as intriguing characters.

Elizabeth Olsen – Scarlet Witch and Arron Taylor-Johnson – Quicksilver

As amazing as the film was, I will not lie and say that I didn’t have issues. These are very tiny issues in comparison and really are due to my love of the comic books. I had a difficult time separating the world of the comics from a couple of story lines that the movie offered. Honestly, it was small, and by no means, a reason to scare other comic book fans like myself. I just ask that you treat the film world as you would any of the multiple comic book universes. Avengers: Age of Ultron is a part of the Marvel Studios universe and is very much its own world.

Should you take your children to Avengers: Age of Ultron?

As this is a family friendly blog, we do need to answer the question of what age child this movie would be appropriate for.  The action, violence, and language run pretty much in line with the previous Avengers film. If you feel that your child shouldn’t watch the first one, best not to take them to this. It consists of the same types, but just a lot more of it in this film. It is rated PG-13.

If you and your family are assembling shields, hammers, and hulk fists at this very moment, because you just can’t stand the excitement? Then get ready to wave them in the air with pride and joy. Avengers: Age of Ultron is the summer movie blockbuster you just can’t miss out on.

If you enjoyed my Avengers: Age of Ultron movie review, when I’m not doing movie reviews for Emily on Our Knight Life you can find me blogging at A Geeky Girls Guide to Life.   All photos are belong to Marvel with permission to post. I was provided a free ticket to review this movie.

Related articles across the web

• ‘Avengers: Age Of Ultron’ Guide: Get Caught Up With The Marvel Cinematic Universe
• Joss Whedon plans ‘eternal rest’
• Avengers: Age of Ultron: An Eye-Candy for Every Marvel Fanboy
• Joss Whedon and cast face superheroic challenge in ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’

I had the extreme pleasure of seeing an early screening of Marvel Studios latest film, Guardians of the Galaxy. I loved it. This is probably the funniest marvel movie yet. While there is humor, there is still a lot of action and an amazing look at the marvel universe that stretches through space.

The comic version of Guardians of the Galaxy has been around for some time now. I wouldn’t necessarily call it one of Marvels most known and bestselling books, but even fans that only stick to the bigger stories have at least heard of them. Look at it this way, the heavy hitters of Marvel mostly stick to earth, but when a storyline involves venturing out into the final frontier, no one gets shocked if they run into the Guardians.

The comic has had few team variations over the decades, but this group, Starlord, Gamora, Rocket, Drax, and Groot, are certainly the most popular, this being because of their differences and similarities.

There are times in the book that make you question why these foolish characters haven’t killed one another yet. Their individual and collective morals can be questionable at times, but they are very present. Stir this all up and you can have intense and serious moments, but most of all hilarity. It is not surprising that a movie was made because of these very diverse characters.

The humor has always been the main draw to this motley group of characters. Marvel Studios made sure that this was a very known and large piece of the film adaptation. I don’t think I have ever laughed this hard during a Marvel movie, and I found the other Marvel movies to be pretty funny as well. It wasn’t just Chris Pratt (who is mostly known for his funnier roles) who was funny – the whole cast had me laughing! This being a main focus of the film doesn’t take away from its place in the Marvel Studios world. It cozies right on up to the other movies, and opens up the giant door of possibilities that is space in this universe.

This was probably going to be Marvel’s toughest sell. The mass majority of people outside of specific comic fans have no idea who these characters are. They will probably take one look at the talking raccoon and tree and furrow their brows.

Let me open you up to the beauty of this story’s unknown element. You as an audience don’t have to feel the pressure of being a fan or knowing a fan. The majority of the people in the theater are taking the same ride with you. This a freedom that allows to just enjoy yourself.

I also want to add that the soundtrack is phenomenal. It is a seventies-ish mix that not only fits with the feeling of this movie but actually plays a significant role in the film. For a movie about space aliens, that is unexpected and incredibly amazing all at the same time. You can also purchase said soundtrack, which I have already done.

Should Kids Go?

Now for a serious warning, I have already pointed out how hilarious this movie is. That humor is mostly adult. Honestly, the entire film is pretty adult. You can make the ultimate judgment call when it comes to bringing kids, but I recommend heeding the rating of PG-13. I personally wouldn’t push it below eleven, but it really depends on the kid. The storyline is pretty complicated and relies heavily on exposition to get the story across instead of necessarily showing you. The good and bad guy definitions continue to shift throughout the film, especially when it comes to categorizing the Guardians, themselves. I think as a parent you would spend most of the movie figuring out how not to explain a joke full of sexual innuendo. Also violence is used for jokes as well.

I had a great time watching Guardians of the Galaxy. As a Marvel fan one of the things I look forward to most after watching their movies are the sneak peak into future Marvel movies! Guardians has a mid-credit and end-credit scene – so don’t forget to wait! The screening I attended was before the San Diego Comic Con, so the ending scene was held from the film. Oh well, I guess I’ll just have to go see it again. It is a terrible burden. What a great way to wind down this summer movie extravaganza.

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Our favorite hammer wielding superhero is back. Marvel Studios phase two may have rolled out with Iron Man 3 first, but Thor certainly doesn’t plan on being satisfied with second place. He seems to prefer to stand by his mechanical suited friend rather than behind him. One thing is for sure, a lot has happened since Thor first appeared on the big screen back in 2011.

We last saw Thor fighting alongside the likes of Iron Man, Captain America, and the Hulk, being brought back to Midgard to stop his brother, Loki, from destroying the realm he has grown to love. Luck was on the gathered Avengers’ side, and they prevailed over the alien attack to save New York and the rest of Midgard. Unfortunately, Thor’s last trip to our realm kept him quite busy and with no time to visit old friends, namely Jane Foster.

Jane has continued to drive her research towards finding the god she gave her heart to, which has now brought her to London. Stuck in-between finally facing the reality that Thor will never return or keep grasping at the fleeting hope that the next spike in her readings will give her that which she so desperately seeks, she takes a final reluctant chance to search out a scientific anomaly. A chance that will lead her right back to one she sought out for so long, but will the price be worth it?

Thor has been striving to bring balance back to the nine realms after rebuilding the Bifrost Bridge and ending the chaos that Loki caused with its destruction. The task has led to many battles and time that continues to add up, keeping him from where his heart truly belongs. Shaping into a king that Asgard truly deserves, Thor is finding it hard to choose between his people and his heart. Now an ancient darkness long thought dead has resurfaced, threatening Asgard and maybe even Jane, forcing Thor to make a choice, a hard one at that.

Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, and Tom Hiddleston return in the second installment of Thor’s story, Thor: The Dark World. This film is a perfect balance of action, drama, romance, and comedy, ensuring it will be a favorite of the Marvel movies. This time around we get to spend a little more time in Asgard, seeing the world that Thor and Loki know best. The beauty and art that delighted fans from the first film is extended in an awe aspiring visage that further embellishes and defines the exquisiteness of all that Asgard offers.

The movie takes place after The Avengers in the Marvel Studios timeline. While it touches on some of the situations left after that film, such as what is to be done with Loki now that he has been taken prisoner or the general wellbeing of Dr. Erik Selvig, the main focus is a continuation of what the first Thor movie left at its end. The Bifrost Bridge needs to be dealt with, along with Thor’s relationship with both his Asgard home and his Midgard heart. Favorite characters beyond Thor, Jane, and Loki return in this film. The Warriors Three and SIf continue to aid their royal friend in helping maintain balance. Dr. Erik Selvig has served a hard transition from his possession in The Avengers, and our favorite intern, Darcy, has returned to offer comic relief once again.

While the movie may not be appropriate for the youngest of audiences, anyone older than thirteen should be fine with seeing this film. Anyone younger is up to parental discretion. There is enough violent situations for this concern, but much like the first film, the violence is limited in comparison to the other Marvel movies.

This is a must see for all superhero and Marvel fans alike. Prepare to be entertained, because this Norse God will bring the thunder to keep you in your seat.

Thor: The Dark World released this weekend (November 8th) and is playing in theaters everywhere!

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April 4th can not come fast enough (and not just because it is my 6th wedding anniversary).  When it comes to Marvel’s Avenger movies I am a huge fan of Captain America.

I love his back story, and I am really excited for Chris Evans to come back on the big screen in Captain America: The Winter Soldier!  Plus I can’t wait to see Anthony Mackie play Falcon!

Ready for the new trailer?

Are you excited yet?

I can not believe that the new Thor movie is almost here – okay well just abut 4 months away…

Marvel’s “Thor: The Dark World” continues the big-screen adventures of Thor, the Mighty Avenger, as he battles to save Earth and all the Nine Realms from a shadowy enemy that predates the universe itself.  In the aftermath of Marvel’s “Thor” and “Marvel’s The Avengers,” Thor fights to restore order across the cosmos…but an ancient race led by the vengeful Malekith returns to plunge the universe back into darkness.  Faced with an enemy that even Odin and Asgard cannot withstand, Thor must embark on his most perilous and personal journey yet, one that will reunite him with Jane Foster and force him to sacrifice everything to save us all.

Starring Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Stellan Skarsgård, Idris Elba, Christopher Eccleston, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Kat Dennings, Ray Stevenson, Zachary Levi, Tadanobu Asano and Jaimie Alexander with Rene Russo and Anthony Hopkins as Odin, Marvel’s “Thor: The Dark World” is directed by Alan Taylor, produced by Kevin Feige, p.g.a., from a story by Don Payne and Robert Rodat and screenplay by Christopher L. Yost and Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely, and is based on Marvel’s classic Super Hero Thor, who first appeared in the comic book “Journey into Mystery “ #83 in August, 1962.

Have you seen the new trailer yet?  Take a minute to check it out, Chris Hemsworth (as always) is pretty amazing!  I love the end of this trailer!

As much as I am a huge fan of Thor, I have to admit seeing Loki back with such a big role in this movie made me remember why it is I considered myself one of “Loki’s Ladies”!

Of course it might not have turned out that way if Tom Hiddelston hadn’t been so darn charming when I got to meet him last year when he discussed his role as Loki.

Look for Marvel’s THOR: THE DARK WORLD in theaters November 8th, 2013!

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This coming April 4th is my 6th wedding anniversary.  Normally we go back and forth on what we want to do to celebrate that day, but I can tell you without a doubt that if my husband isn’t deployed on April 4th, 2014 we will be at the Marvel’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier movie!  We both love spending date nights at the movies, and this is a picture we are both really looking forward to!

If he is deployed I can pretty much guarantee that I will be purchasing the DVD for a belated anniversary gift!

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CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER releases in theaters on April 4, 2014!