Minute Thirty-Eight: From Full-On Hotness to Full-On Suspicious

Joining us on this episode, we have Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell from the Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast!

In the thirty-eighth minute of Joe Johnston’s 2011 film Captain America: The First Avenger...

It’s the movie’s hottest, thirstiest minute! As Nathan says, there’s Before Minute 38 in the MCU and After Minute 38. This is that moment when we finally see the new and improved Steve Rogers in all his sweaty, glistening glory. So how much did Chris Evans have to work out to get this look for us to enjoy? But why did they pick those pants for him to wear? And what happened to the belt and pads that were holding him down? Did his sudden growth push all of them off him?

We talk about the nature of getting actors to look this way and how challenging it is for the actors – and potentially harmful to their health. And how does this compare to how women’s bodies were treated in the 80s and elsewhere? And is it healthy to keep one-upping the adonis figures? Where’s the line with male gaze and female gaze? How would this scene have played if it was Captain Carter stepping out of the Vita-Ray Chamber?

Speaking of Peggy, how about that fantastic moment where she can barely contain herself from touching Steve’s chest? It’s one of Nathan’s favorite moments in the movie. But why is Howard’s reaction to say Dr. Erskine did it, not him? Is he disregarding his own involvement? Or is this what we need to believe the Super Soldier Serum’s formula dies with Erskine?

Anyone have some water? Cuz we’re all thirsty! Tune in!
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