IFDB Review: Marvel Origins: Avengers Part 1:

Origins is a great way to rewatch Marvel Phase 1. It takes the three modern narratives, Iron Man 2, Incredible Hulk, and Thor, and edits them together. Unlike other cuts, that strive to present events chronologically, Origins is a thematic edit, using the narrative beats of the 3 plots and arranging them so these events cut back and forth to each other. For example, it establishes (briefly) Tony's origin, then moves on to Banner in Brazil, then Thor in Asgard, which sets up all three characters. Then it adds complications in all three stories. Then cuts between sequences of rising action in all three stories. This first part ends in a climax for all three stories.Origins is as much a classroom on narrative technique than it is a great retelling of these stories. I agree with almost all of Juice's editing choices. Most of the scenes removed were of the "stop and look at this cool stuff" variety, which slowed the pace of the original movies down a touch, but which would have made a project like this an hour longer.I especially like the inclusion of cut scenes from IM2, which make Tony out to be even more of a prick, and from Avengers, showing Steve's acclimation to modern life. All in all, a great way to see this epic story again.

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