A cinematic marvel

Marvel's iconic superheroes, such as Hulk, Iron Man, Thor and Captain America, have respectively undertaken individual big screen adventures.

But can you imagine them fighting against, and alongside, one another in a single epic film?

Yes, that's the The Avengers, the first Marvel Studios movie distributed by the Walt Disney Company. It features an impeccable cast of comic book legends, who try to outdo a mega-powerful evil force to save the world from impending doom. The film will premiere on May 5.

Directed and written by Joss Whedon, the mastermind behind the cult classic Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the superhero behemoth is a spectacle for both comic geeks and non-fans.

Whedon fills the dialogue with comedic lines (notably from Iron Man) and slapstick gags (mostly from Hulk) in the 135-minute extravaganza. Such funny business is as enjoyable as the film's stunning visual effects and action sequences.

Every superhero is fleshed out and given a fair share of the narrative arc to create a balanced ensemble.

Robert Downey Jr continues to shine as Tony Stark. His hyperkinetic and sardonic presence helps maintain Iron Man's position as a favorite. Jeremy Renner does a fantastic job as the rogue agent marksman Hawkeye.