Black Widow (2021) Movie Review

Director: Cate Shortland
Writers: Eric Pearson, Jac Schaeffer, Ned Benson
Stars: Scarlett Johansson, Florence Pugh, David Harbour

“Black Widow” is a long-awaited film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, finally giving Scarlett Johansson’s Natasha Romanoff her own solo movie. Directed by Cate Shortland and released in 2021, the film is set between the events of “Captain America: Civil War” and “Avengers: Infinity War”.

The film opens with a flashback to Natasha’s childhood in Ohio, where she lived with her “family”, which turned out to be a group of undercover Russian agents posing as an American family. We see how Natasha is taken from her family at a young age and forced to undergo brutal training in the Red Room to become an assassin. The film then picks up years later with Natasha on the run, after violating the Sokovia Accords in “Civil War”.

Johansson delivers an emotionally charged performance as Natasha, exploring her character’s vulnerabilities and traumas. We get to see her reconnect with her “sister”, Yelena Belova, played brilliantly by Florence Pugh, who steals the show with her comedic timing and fierce physicality. David Harbour and Rachel Weisz round out the family dynamic as the father figure, Alexei, and the motherly Melina, respectively.

The action sequences are well choreographed and executed, with plenty of hand-to-hand combat and impressive stunts. The film’s standout sequence is an intense and thrilling chase through the streets of Budapest, which has been referenced in previous Marvel films. The film also has some great humor, with witty one-liners and amusing banter between the characters.

However, the film is not without its flaws. The plot feels somewhat formulaic, following a predictable structure with a big reveal at the end. The villain, the Taskmaster, is also somewhat underwhelming and doesn’t have enough screen time to be a memorable foe. Additionally, some of the emotional moments feel rushed and underdeveloped.

Overall, “Black Widow” is an enjoyable addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, providing a satisfying backstory for one of its most beloved characters. With strong performances and impressive action sequences, it’s a fun ride that’s well worth the watch.