I liked The Falcon and the Winter Soldier immediately, thanks to a tense, action-filled first few minutes. This is precisely what I’d been hoping for from a series about two of the Avengers. Even more so considering my disappointment with the first two episodes of WandaVision (2021). 

Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan’s six-part series is an action/adventure that sees Sam Wilson (The Falcon) and Bucky Barnes (The Winter Soldier) adjusting to the world following the events of Avengers Endgame (2019). And it’s not long before they have to deal with a new, earthly enemy.

My partiality to a beautiful bromance makes it no wonder that the scenes of Mackie and Stan on screen together are my favourite. The moments when they appeared separately or not at all were often engaging too. Nevertheless, ‘fully engaging throughout’ is not how I can best describe The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. There are periods when it feels flat, less urgent, less exciting, and lacking my favourite element of all; the fun action and an adequately speedy pace. 

The other issue I have with The Falcon and the Winter Soldier is its main villain, Karli Morgenthau (Erin Kellyman); a character whose story/villainy I just didn’t fully buy.

Overall, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier is good but I can’t say that I love it in its entirety. However, I will remember it fondly for the bromance/action. Especially in episode one, towards the end of the fourth episode and much of episode five. Make time if you’re curious.

Happy Film Loving 

G