Plot: What’s it about?
You might look at the cover for this new animated movie, Avengers Confidential Black Widow and Punisher and be thinking one of two things. That it’s meant to promote the next big superhero movie coming out next month (The Amazing Spider-man 2) or that it features all the avengers featured on the front cover in huge roles. While it’s clear that this is likely to promote the next Spider-man film (it even includes a free print off pass to see that movie), Iron Man, Thor and the Hulk only make small cameos in this film. They’re right on the front cover along with Black Widow and Punisher. Those two are the primary focus of this new animated movie. That might seem like an odd pairing, but the two do work well together and their histories aren’t that different. Both have have had tough histories and they both have an extensive skill set. Punisher is not unlike Batman in that he lacks super powers and relies strictly on his brain power to get things done. Obviously, there are other differences between the two. Batman, for one doesn’t kill while Punisher doesn’t blink an eye before taking out a room full of assassins. I’ve never been a huge anime fan nor have I been particularly fond of either Black Widow or Punisher, but they have their moments.
This new PG-13 rated animated movie finds the Punisher taken into custody after he interferes with a top secret mission. Director Nick Fury orders the two of them to work together to stop LEVIATHAN, a global terrorist organization. They try to sell stolen technology to the highest bidder. Don’t expect to hear any familiar voices from the cast here. Samuel L. Jackson who plays Nick Fury in the Marvel-based films doesn’t lend his voice here nor does Scarlett Johansson. Sadly, that’s the least of this movie’s problems. I was mostly bored throughout most of it. Things begin well, but the plot grows more routine and dull as it goes along. I’m sure animation fans will get more enjoyment than I and it is fun seeing these characters together, but the story is lacking. I can’t compare it to other animated movies of this sort because I’ve never seen any, but this outing is decidedly average. This is only intended for those in dire need of a Marvel fix before the next Spider-man film arrives in theaters, otherwise I’d say skip it. One final note: Be sure to check the sticker on the front slipcover, as it offers a code to print a free ticket to see the next Spider-man film in theaters.
Video: How’s it look?
Let’s be honest for a minute: Why should this look anything less than great? Well, it shouldn’t and it doesn’t, thankfully. The AVC (1.78:1) encode displays nice, rich colors with appropriate details throughout. Facial details such as the punisher’s beard show nice details as well . I’m sure those who nitpick more than I will find things to complain about, but it looked nice to me. Again, I don’t watch a lot of animated features of any sort so I don’t have a reference or anything to compare to, but I feel pleased with the visuals here.
Audio: How’s it sound?
The DTS HD track also satisfies. Things are smooth across all channels and they’re active throughout the feature as well. Voices came out loud and clear without any issues. The action scenes enhance the experience here as well. There are nice little details that show up such as the hulk making his appearance and a nice rumble as well as various scenes of destruction. There’s plenty of gun-play on display here and that adds nicely to the rear channels and details.
Supplements: What are the extras?
- Conceptual art gallery (Blu-ray Exclusive) – This offers an extensive gallery of stills and concepts. It takes a while to get through and can be viewed as a slide-show or individually.
- The vigilante vs. the spy – This gives a history of the black widow and the punisher. It’s worth a look and even offers a nice bit we hear from some of the crew about who would win in a fight between the black widow and punisher.
- Espionage and Punishment – This takes a look at the animation process. If that’s your thing then this is worth a look I suppose.
- Previews
- DVD/Digital Copy
