Since the massive success of Avengers: Endgame in 2019, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has experienced mixed reactions from fans. Phases Four and Five have been criticized for the direction of the storytelling, leaving some viewers disappointed. Captain America: Brave New World aims to reinvigorate the franchise by introducing a new perspective on one of its most iconic heroes.
Anthony Mackie takes over the role of Captain America as Sam Wilson, following Chris Evans’ portrayal of Steve Rogers. Steve Rogers represented unwavering morality and leadership, setting a high standard for the new Captain America. The film explores Wilson’s struggle to embrace the mantle and navigate the legacy left by Rogers, showing the challenges of stepping into such a symbolic role.
Sam Wilson Battles Serpent Society and Leader Amid Global Adamantium Conspiracy Unfolding
The movie is the 35th entry in the MCU and continues the story from The Incredible Hulk, Captain America: Civil War, Eternals, and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. The story revolves around Tiamut, a Celestial island containing adamantium, a rare and powerful metal. President Thaddeus Ross seeks to control adamantium for global distribution while Sam Wilson confronts the Serpent Society, a group of mercenaries trafficking the metal. This mission triggers a larger conspiracy with global stakes.
Captain America: Brave New World (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)Isaiah Bradley, a super-soldier introduced in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, is mind-controlled to attack Ross, creating political chaos. Sam investigates the situation and discovers that Samuel Sterns, also known as the Leader, is orchestrating the scheme. Sterns uses gamma radiation and subliminal triggers to manipulate key figures and seeks revenge on Ross while trying to destabilize the world.
Ross Becomes Red Hulk, Sam Appeals to Humanity, Film Receives Mixed Reviews
Ross transforms into Red Hulk using gamma-infused pills and goes on a destructive rampage, including attacking the White House. Sam cannot defeat him through force and instead appeals to Ross’ humanity by invoking memories of his daughter, Betty Ross. Ross returns to his human form, steps down as President, and surrenders. Sterns is imprisoned, and Isaiah Bradley is exonerated. The post-credits scene teases the arrival of a new villain, Doomsday, for the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday movie in 2026.
Critics gave Captain America: Brave New World negative reviews, noting that the film struggled to balance an origin story, political thriller, and legacy sequel. Anthony Mackie’s performance was seen as less charismatic compared to Chris Evans, and the action sequences and CGI were considered mediocre. Harrison Ford’s role as Ross and Red Hulk received mixed reactions. The main cast also includes Danny Ramirez, Shira Haas, Carl Lumbly, Giancarlo Esposito, Liv Tyler, and Tim Blake Nelson.
