(USA) Action/Sci-Fi/Adventure. Directed by Joss Whedon. Starring Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner. Category IIA. 142 minutes. Opened Apr 26.

So you’re probably going to go see “The Avengers” because you don’t want to be left out of the cultural zeitgeist. Well, you’ll be pleased to know it’s a darn good movie. Here’s your watcher’s guide.

Q: I haven’t seen any of the previous Marvel movies. Is this a problem?
A: Not exactly, since the previous ones only loosely connect to this movie (in fact, ardent fans will have to navigate several gaping plot holes in an attempt to stitch it all together). If you don’t know the characters, then yeah it’s going to be a bit weird and byzantine with literally one or two lines of introduction for somebody whose powers need a full Wikipedia page to explain.

Q: Is the 3D good or is it just distracting?
A: Good. It wasn’t shot on those “Avatar” cameras, and it was upgraded to 3D in post-production. But nevertheless, it’s very well-done, adding depth and perspective to what might’ve been confusing fight sequences. Very few random things flying at the screen, except an errant Mjolnir or two.

Q: Why should I care about this if I don’t like comics?
A: You should care about it insomuch as you have two hours and $100 to kill. The 3D is fun even for non-true believers.

Q: This was co-written and directed by the “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” guy?
A: Yes, Joss Whedon. And the story’s told with all of the humor, confidence and well-executed clichés you would expect from him.

Q: Is there a good time to sneak out to a bathroom break or get snacks?
A: It’s kind of talkie for a long stretch after the first two action sequences and then it’s balls-to-the-wall action after that.

Q: Will kids be there?
A: Many. Book a late show.

Q: How about the bad guys?
A: As with the recent Marvel movies, the bad guys are ultra-weak. Basically, Thor’s brother wants to invade Earth with a random-looking alien army because why not?

Q: Any cool Easter eggs in the credits?
A: As with most Marvel movies, there’s a great cameo after the film ends that exactly five people will get (and they will be ecstatic). It happens about three seconds into the credits. Afterwards, all but the most completionist of nerds may safely leave.

Q: OK, OK, I’m going to go see it. Where is the best place?
A: Well they serve beer at iSquare, so it’s kind of a no-brainer. This is not a movie you need to concentrate on.

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