The return of Captain America is more than just another Marvel movie—it’s a cultural moment. With Anthony Mackie stepping into the role as the first Black Captain America on the big screen, this film carries weight, expectation, and legacy. ‘Brave New World’ isn’t just a sequel; it’s a continuation of multiple storylines, a bridge to the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), and a reflection of today’s America. Before heading to the theater, here’s what you need to know.
The Legacy of ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’
If you haven’t watched the Disney+ series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, you might want to catch up. The series tackled heavy themes, including race, identity, and what it truly means to be Captain America. Sam Wilson’s journey to embracing the shield wasn’t just about physical strength—it was about understanding the burden of a title rooted in a complicated national history.
One of the series’ most powerful moments came from the introduction of Isaiah Bradley, a Black super soldier erased from history and imprisoned by the government. His story paralleled real-life injustices, making Sam’s decision to become Captain America even more profound. Expect Brave New World to revisit these themes while pushing them even further into the mainstream conversation.
A ‘Hulk’ of a Connection
‘Brave New World’ doesn’t just follow The Falcon and the Winter Soldier—it’s also heavily tied to The Incredible Hulk (2008). That’s right, a film many fans assumed was a forgotten relic of the MCU is suddenly front and center.
Harrison Ford steps in as Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, now the President of the United States. Ross has long been a looming figure in the MCU, often advocating for superhero regulation. But this time, he’s more than just a politician—he’s set to become the Red Hulk. His transformation marks a seismic shift, as it introduces another major super-powered figure into the MCU’s increasingly crowded landscape.
Additionally, Betty Ross (Liv Tyler) and Samuel Sterns (Tim Blake Nelson), last seen in The Incredible Hulk, return. Sterns, now fully transformed into the villainous Leader, adds another layer of complexity to the film’s conflicts.
Why ‘Eternals’ Still Matters
If you thought Eternals was a one-and-done film, think again. One of its most lasting images—the massive Celestial corpse sticking out of the Indian Ocean—has major implications for Brave New World. The world is racing to mine Tiamut’s remains for adamantium, the rare metal famously associated with Wolverine’s claws.
This discovery sets up a geopolitical struggle, echoing real-world fights over resources. Whoever controls adamantium controls a powerful commodity, making it a centerpiece of the film’s narrative. And let’s not forget—this is the clearest sign yet that the X-Men’s arrival in the MCU is closer than we think.
More Than Just Another Superhero Movie
Captain America: Brave New World is more than just the next entry in the MCU—it’s a cultural moment. It’s a film that dares to question what heroism means in a changing America. It’s about power—who holds it, who’s denied it, and who’s ready to fight for it.
With Anthony Mackie leading the way, this film isn’t just setting up the next big crossover—it’s making history. Whether Brave New World succeeds at the box office or not, its impact will be felt far beyond the theater.