One thing most superhero films seem to have in common is that, by their conclusion, there is going to be a lot property damage and wreckage. In The Avengers (2012), most of New York is greatly bruised, with smashed buildings, broken streets, and more – but you never really pay attention to or much care for how badly the city is devastated by the battle between the Chitauri and the Avengers. You see both the heroes and villains smash into offices and possible residential areas, but you’re more focused on the action than the destruction and possible loss of human life. A previous scene shows Captain America organizing a citywide evacuation with the aid of the NYPD, informing viewers that innocent bystanders will be removed from harm’s way. This gives audiences the opportunity to watch the Hulk smash flying alien Leviathans into skyscrapers without worrying if a family was crushed in the process.
