"Black Widow", My warmest recommendation

The film "Black Widow", a tie-in to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, managed to pleasantly surprise me with its powerful narrative and cinematic display.

Directed by Cate Shortland, it presents a story of origins and redemption for the popular character of Natasha Romanoff, played by a magnetic Scarlett Johansson.

From its impeccably detailed production design, to hypnotic action choreography and a colour palette dominated by cool grey tones, the filmmaker transports the viewer into the heart of the most lethal spy.

Shortland excels in directing brutal fight scenes in which Romanoff displays her physical prowess. But what is most surprising is how he manages to delve deep into her broken psyche.

Florence Pugh bursts with commendable ferocity as his sister Yelena Belova, endowing their bond with genuine nuance.

Rachel Weisz and David Harbour also shine in endearing roles.

Beyond spectacle, Black Widow risks exploring themes of abuse in the USSR and the weight of trauma with subtlety.

A film that celebrates a female icon and a fitting epitaph for Johansson in the MCU.