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It's easy to forget, what with all the recent hype about it, but as far as movies are concerned the concept of a "multiverse" is anything but new. Gwyneth Paltrow was starring in rom-coms about alternate realities 25 years ago, with the groundbreaking "Sliding Doors," and just a few years later Jet Li tried to kill every other version of himself across alternate realities in the action-thriller "The One."

But a few things have certainly changed. Audiences seem to grasp the concept pretty clearly now — making weird and complex films that would have probably struggled to find mainstream acceptance years ago into massive Oscar-winning crossover hits — and so do motion picture studios. Thanks to multiverses, studios can now create movies and shows where every iteration of their intellectual property can exist simultaneously, making the nostalgic seem new and the fan service seem poignant.

And for whatever reason, the focal point of...

First appearing in Marvel Comics in 1941, Captain America is a symbol of all true American values: honesty, loyalty, humility, courage, and integrity. As a result, his suit needs to be a shining beacon of hope for not just Americans but all the world over. Each live-action adaptation of the iconic Marvel superhero has had its own take on Captain America's recognizable suit.

Captain America first appeared in live-action in 1944, and since then, 14 different versions of his suit have been designed, including the most recent one for Marvel Studios' upcoming Captain America: New World Order. Although time is often a factor in the design of Captain America's apparel, there's always a consistent color motif of the red, white, and blue of the United States' flag. From the baggy costume, to the sleek uniform, to the fugitive Captain America's darker attire, each suit has its little quirks to talk about.

Dick Purcell...

Unsure who Black Widow is? Having trouble deciphering the Hulk’s roar? Can’t tell the difference between Iron Man and the Iron Giant? In anticipation of the release of The Avengers on May 4, EW’s team of super geeks is here to help guide you through the mythos with our seven-part series of superhero primers, the recently declassified “Avengers Files.” It doesn’t matter if you’re a comic book connoisseur or a Nick Fury newbie — follow along this week as we deconstruct Earth’s mightiest heroes and pose the question: Which Avenger is the mightiest?

Name: Captain America...