Suit up

“The Avengers” is the first real comic book movie.

It’s the first movie to fully capture the sense of wonder and fun at the heart of Marvel’s best titles. It’s the first movie to really feel like a four-issue comic book story arc.

From its cryptic prologue set deep in space, to the dazzling teamwork of the New York City showdown, “The Avengers” oozes comic goodness.

It has fun with its characters and set pieces, which is sweet relief from the drab realism of other superhero movies.

Maybe best of all, it puts a spin on the origin story formula. Instead of the predictable plot about ordinary people gaining extraordinary powers, “The Avengers” deals with already extraordinary people learning how to work together.

This new dynamic alone injects fresh life into the deadening hero-normativity of other comic book movies.

We know these heroes from their own films, and there’s nothing quite like watching them come together and fight. “The Avengers” wouldn’t be nearly as remarkable if it were only about spectacular fighting. Half the joy comes from watching them assemble.

Thanks to the geek expertise of writer/director Joss Whedon, “The Avengers” entertains before the heroes suit up.

The movie’s many stars bring their best to a script that respects the growth of each hero. All of them have big character moments before their big action moments.

Though this is a team movie through and through, Mark Ruffalo in particular stands out. He plays an incredible Hulk and an even more incredible Bruce Banner. His nuanced take on the troubled scientist feels human — vulnerable and volatile at the same time.

Loki (Tom Hiddleston) returns from “Thor” as the archivillain equal-parts insecure and menacing.

The movie unfolds surely and slowly as the team figures out how to deal with the god of mischief. Tensions flare and supersized egos clash until the movie pays off with the climax of the year.

Turns out it’s a blast to watch six superheroes battle an alien army.

In the midst of the action, the Hulk delivers two of the funniest film moments of the year so far. Captain America and Thor bond while surrounded by foes. Iron Man flies from skirmish to skirmish to provide support. The team actually feels like a team.

Whedon’s astonishing ability to stay true to the characters even during the climactic battle elevates this film above the brainless special effects of most summer blockbusters. You never forget who’s doing the fighting and what they’re fighting for.

It could’ve been a bloated disaster or just another superhero movie, but “The Avengers” flourishes as the most fun mainstream movie in years.

If you haven’t already experienced this glorious entertainment, it’s time to suit up.

By Patrick Beane