Captain America: The Winter Soldier (12A)
Fans of the Marvelverse will be pleased to hear that director Anthony Russo builds nicely on Steve Rogers’ debut, giving us an action-heavy, if sometimes convoluted, adventure that never ceases to entertain.
Much of the credit for this must go to the charismatic Chris Evans, perfectly cast as the reluctant but ultimately ass-kicking hero.
He’s aided and abetted by Scarlett Johansson, making the most of extra screen time - and getting in on the action - as the returning Black Widow.
And Robert Redford reminds a new generation what a movie icon he is as Alexander Pierce, a senior figure within SHIELD and an old alliance of Nick Fury’s (Samuel L Jackson).
Set after the catastrophic events of New York at the end of Avengers Assemble, Steve Rogers - aka Captain America - is living quietly in Washington and trying to adjust to life in a modern world.
After the shock discovery at the end of the first CA film that he was frozen for decades as part of a military experiment, he is determined to lead a quiet life.
But extraordinary circumstances - which sees a SHIELD colleague coming under attack - forces Steve back into his superhero suit to investigate a secret new enemy that threatens to put the world at risk.
Joining forces with his old ally the Black Widow (Johansson) Captain America strives to find out what’s going on while dodging a band of assassins who’ve been sent to wipe him out.
They get the help of The Falcon (Anthony Mackie) another former military man whose giant pair of wings contribute to some of the film’s impressive scenes. To reveal any more would risk ruining this spoiler-laden plot.
The pace sometimes flags, but the action and acting are great in this strong addition to the Marvel series.
20 Feet From Stardom (12A) ****
A film that focuses on some of the women behind some of the best-known songs of all time, this film turns the camera firmly on the back up singers behind some of music’s legends. Powerfully, it also celebrates and champions their contribution to those songs.
A Best Documentary winner at last month’s Oscars, it also explores the mixed blessings of being in the shadow of superstardom.
The film features contributions from artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Mick Jagger, Sting and Stevie Wonder - who is particularly witty.
But the real focus, and rightfully so, is on the female singers who have helped in various ways to shape these massive careers.
Among them are Darlene Love, a powerhouse of a singer who recorded under Phil Spector only to have her vocals attributed to other acts including The Crystals.
Other women featured include the delightful Diva Merry Clayton, whose extraordinary vocal made The Rolling Stones’ Gimme Shelter an edge, and Claudia Lennear, who performed with acts like Ike and Tina Turner and the Stones.
A rousing, wonderful documentary that gives some talented women their due.
