The Ultimate Avengers
Starring: Justin Gross, Grey Delisle, Michael Massee, Marc Worden, Olivia D'abo, Nan McNamara, Nolan North, Andre Ware, David Boat, Fred Tatasciore, James K. Ward
Directed by: Bob Richardson

The Ultimate Avengers Reviewed by Paul Heath

THE ULTIMATE AVENGERS is a feature length animated movie from Marvel and Lions Gate Entertainment. This is the first feature from the comic book giant and the mighty Lions Gate after they announced that they would collaborate to bring a bunch of movies from the original comic material to the small screen.

'AVENGERS' brings the likes of Captain America, The Hulk, Iron Man, Thor, Black Widow, Giant Man and The Wasp to the screen, and the movie is basically the setup as to how all of these forces came together. We get to see all of them enroll into the team that eventually became 'The Avengers', and the film kicks off focussing on Captain America, where we're transported back to the second World War where we see 'America' apparently killed in battle. Later on we discover that 'America' was frozen at the bottom of the ocean, and thus is brought back to life in the present day. From there, we go on to meet Iron Man, Thor, Hulk etc....All are a little hesitant to sign up for the General Nick Fury's elite team (to say the least), but the movie goes into details as to why and how they do.

I'm not a huge comic book fan, but there was enough here to keep me interested for the film's 72 minute running time. If you've never watched a super-hero movie, or read any of the comics, then you'll still have a good time as the plot keeps you glued to the screen and entertained throughout. Each character is introduced to us during the flick, so even if you've never heard of Thor or even The Hulk (I'm sure that there are people out there), then not to worry, as we're treated to a little background of each of the characters here too. Another little tip is to turn on the info option on the extras as this also gives you more info on the characters and history in little boxes throughout he whole film (although it does sway your attention away from the action).

The animation in the movie is very fluid, and while not as good as other releases, is exceptional considering it's not a theater release, and as we expect for a movie that is based on a comic book the artistry is superb too. The imagery is crisp and very sharp, and the transfer to the DVD format is exceptional also. The movie has the feel of a comic book too, and the colours are vibrant and contrasty. Very good, and you can see that a lot of work has gone into the project, which again is brilliant considering the smaller budget.

Onto the extras, and you'll be pleased to know that this seems to be aimed at the die hard comic book fans out there rather than the younger audience. There are some great interviews with Tom Brevoort, George Perez and Kurt Busiek who talk about the history of the 'Avengers' in "Avengers Assemble" on the disc. A great , detailed little featurette, interesting particularly if you're a fan of Marvel Comic Books.

We have a second featurette, "The Ultimate Voice Talent Search", which is a look at the many, many 'actors' that submitted auditions for the various vocal roles n the movie. Some are entertaining, some are a little cringeworthy to say the least, but a fairly original little feature.

We then have an exclusive look at 'ULTIMATE AVENGERS II', a follow up to this movie which is due in the summer. There are storyboards for the film with vocal accompaniment and a few stills from the film. The filmmakers also detail the plot of the next film. A lovely little look at what we can expect next from the Lionsgate/ Marvel collaboration.

There's the aforementioned 'Trivia Track' where you can learn more about the Avengers and their history, which plays like that TV show on VH1 'Pop Up Video'. I actually watched the movie again with this playing, and I found it really interesting consider that I'm the non-comic book fan and all.

We also have an interactive game on DVD-ROM called "What Avenger Are You?", and a few trailers for other Marvel movies, including this one.

All in all, THE ULTIMATE AVENGERS is a must for all you comic book fans out there, and I'd recommend the movie to those that aren't into them too. Kids will love the film too, although it must be said that there are a few darker areas in the plot, so parental guidance is suggested. An entertaining little movie. Bring on the next one Marvel.

GRADE: B-

Paul Heath