Captain America.
Best superhero of the year in my opinion! Captain America has always been an interesting character due to his superpowers basically being that he is the perfect human, quicker, faster, stronger, more reactive etc but other than that he doesn't have any powers, he can't make lazer beams from his eyes for example.
However it's quickly brought into the storyline that really Captain America's power is his self-sacrifice, bravery, and spirit.
The characteristics of Captain America aren't just "Woo America" which I was worried it might be but instead appeal to more than national ideas.
In my opinion this was the best of the year.
X men first class
An interesting film about the origins of the X men set against the Cuban missile crisis. It covers the backstories of some very important characters brilliantly and really sets up the different positions of the different groups who come to blows.
There are a few messages in there about being true to yourself, accepting yourself as you are.
All in all it was a great film however I can't really think of too many reasons why!
Thor
The Thor comic book series has always been interesting as it contrasted the mythology of Norse times and science. In this movie the reckless Thor is...er...reckless, stripped of his powers, goes to earth, falls in love, changes and then becomes the responsible Thor [though I suspect he is still a little reckless]. Some great acting with Anthony Hopkins as Odin, Chris Hemsworth as Thor and Tom Hiddleston as Loki.
The film clearly sets up for the avengers movie coming out next year and so perhaps races through some plot lines that might have been nice in a second movie [for example, why not make Thor's transformation and growing up take longer and be more realistic for that reason.]
There is also the great message of responsibility, giving up what you love for a greater good and self sacrifice including a messianic like resurrection.
Green lantern.
Over all the biggest dissappointment of all the superhero films, mainly due to the awful computer graphics for the suit, in all honesty just having a green lycra suit would have been better.
Despite this the film deals with the ideas of fear and will power [courage?] and the fight for will power to overcome fear. The main protaganist although strong willed goes weaker when he gains superpowers which is an interesting contrast. Ultimately he saves the day [sorry for spoiling it] however there is the question left of what will happen of the "ring made of fear" [sequel!]
