Avengers take on latest alien threat to the planet

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The comic book permeates all levels of popular culture. This sporadic feature reviews some recent examples from the world of digital video discs (compatible with DVD-ROM-enabled computers and home entertainment centers) and also includes a recommended sequential-art reading list to extend the multimedia adventures.

'Ultimate Avengers: The Movie,' rated PG-13

(Lions Gate Home Entertainment, $19.99)

Marvel Enterprises' first foray into releasing a direct-to-DVD animated feature has led to a teen-friendly adventure based on Mark Millar and Bryan Hitch's Ultimates comic-book series. It will not impress fans of the book but is still worth a look for the sequential-art fan.

This sanitized version of the comic

no spousal abuse or sex-driven rampages here — finds Nick Fury recruiting a superhero team comprising —sted comprised ofptain America, Iron Man, Ant Man, Thor, Wasp, Black Widow and research help from Bruce Banner as they take on an extraterrestrial force that has been causing trouble since World War II and wishes to conquer the planet.

An uneven, traditional animation style will not impress cartoon connoisseurs. On-screen equivalents of Natasha Romanova and the Wasp are beautifully rendered, while Betty Ross and Thor seem rushed and definitely not as refined.

However, an amazing battle sequence with the Hulk, a rousing musical score and plenty of action in the latter half of the 71-minute effort leave great hope for the upcoming sequel to the film.

Extras include an optional fact track, which pops up as text balloons over the action and helps in learning about the characters and the comics, and a 25-minute creative history of the Avengers. Industry stalwarts Tom Brevoort, George Perez, Kurt Busiek, Joe Quesada and Mark Millar add their comments to this history while Avengers comic-book art from the past 42 years whizzes around the screen.

A feature highlighting fans' own video auditions — as they vied to become the voices of the Avengers — are painfully humorous; some segments can be used to blackmail the participants if they ever run for public office.