Bakersfield Community Theatre

If you're interested in creating your own Captain America movie costume it's important that you understand the differences between the movie version and the comic book version. For those interested in having their own costume here is some information about how they differ. Its vital to authenticity and continuity that the two not have components crisscrossed.

Captain's Shield

Captain America's iconic shield is the first thing that you may notice is different between the two versions of the outfit. The original graphic novel version was a rounded diamond shaped shield and changed to a round disc in later years. In the film, the round disc shield is a style that is used.

The Headpiece

The captain's mask has also changed over the years and it's important to have the right type of helmet/mask to match the version that you are wearing. The graphic novel book version is an all-in-one piece similar to a cowl, covering the upper face, entire head, and the back of the neck. For the movie version things are greatly simplified with a military battle helmet covered with blue-grey leather, out of which, a unified mask is made. In the comic book the character has small leather wings attached to each side of his headpiece, while in the film, these wings are simply stenciled on to the helmet with paint.

The Boots

The boots see massive change between the two versions. The comic book version generally has bright red spandex boots with flap-over tops, while the film version has tall brown leather military boots which come three quarters the way up the calf. The look of the boots is also represented in the captain's gloves; again, Brown military style leather for the movie version, red spandex with cuffs for the comic book version.

Pants

The pants are probably the most important consideration to keep in mind when choosing between the two versions of the uniform. For a man who's confident in his physique, and masculinity, the comic book version involves the wearing of bright blue leotard pants. For those who want to go with a slightly more macho appearance the movie version is probably best; in this version blue-gray military battle pants are used.

The Uniform Top

The appearance of the top of the uniform is so much different between the two character versions. In the graphic novels however, the top is made of form fitting spandex with muscle shaped armor worn beneath. In the film, the top is merely a decorated military uniform top which contains standard body armor.

Add-ons

One of the single most important considerations that has to be kept in mind between the two costumes is the wide range of weaponry that Captain America has used over the years. It is vital to keep in mind that while the graphic novelist version used everything from swords, to spears, to slingshots, he never used a firearm. In the film however captain America is seen wearing a leather holster on his thigh and carrying a side arm.

With these differences in mind you're now better prepared to put together the perfect Captain America movie costume. It doesn't matter if you choose to make your costume or buy it, knowing the difference between the two versions is essential. So whether you are an original graphic novel fan or have fallen in love with the 2011 blockbuster movie, having your own costume will let you live out the adventure yourself.