Reel Salazars: Francisco's Favorite Avenger Movies

As Disney prepares to release its ninth Marvel film, I would like to take a look at my top three favorite Marvel films. There were a number of movies I disliked including "Iron Man 2 and 3" which had dumb plots and terrible villains. The plot twists were superfluous and some of the directing was manipulative. Both of these films demonstrated the worst of filmmaking and while Robert Downey Jr. was charismatic and gave it his all, the films themselves were highly forgettable.

However these are my three favorites. I did not include the latest "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" as it is still too early to judge it.   

3. "Marvel's The Avengers" : While it is far from a perfect, "The Avengers" is an enjoyable ride. The uninteresting parts of this film feature bad special effects, a generic villain and over the top action. However, the movie is still fun as it features a number of fan favorite superheroes teaming up to save the world. Whedon is clever in creating the world and defining each hero with different characteristics. It is also enjoyable to see each hero's superpowers and how they use them as a team. Tom Hiddleston was also a bonus in the film as his charismatic presence threatened to steal the show from the rest of the star-studded cast. With Joss Whedon at the helm, it is likely the next film will be even more fun.    

2. "Captain America: The First Avenger" : This is probably the most even and best structured of all the Avengers films since "Iron Man." While the opening and ending of the movie serve as a tie in to connect the film to "The Avengers" the middle section which takes place during World War II is a brilliant character piece. Chris Evans gives a solid performance while Hugo Weaving's Red Skull is one of the best Marvel villains the company has ever crated. Featuring immaculate art direction and costumes, a talented ensemble and incredible action sequences, "Captain America" is what a comic movie should be like.      

1. "Iron Man" : This is most likely the best Marvel movie because it was not marred by any of the Avengers hints or Nick Fury cameos (until the end credits of course). The movie set out to tell the story of the superhero without any gimmicks and it created a film that even Iron Man or comic book fans could watch without confusion. Robert Downey Jr. created a fascinating portrait as Tony Stark which felt refreshing and original while the more serious Jeff Bridges was the perfect counterpart. Featuring intense action sequences and stunning special effects, Jon Favreau's first "Iron Man"  film ranks among the best comic book movies ever made and one that should be seen by all audiences.  

Now it is is you turn to tell us what you favorite Marvel films are and why.