The Marvel Cinematic Universe has had its ups and downs in recent years, but Captain America: Brave New World feels like a return to form. This latest installment brings back the grounded storytelling and action-packed thrills that made the early Captain America films so iconic. With Anthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson fully stepping into the mantle, the film delivers a strong message, breathtaking action sequences, and a few surprises along the way.
One of the biggest concerns leading into Brave New World was whether it would feel like a Captain America movie or just another MCU installment. Fortunately, this film fully embraces the themes and political intrigue that defined the franchise while allowing Sam Wilson to stand apart as his own version of Cap. The story carries an impactful and timely message, one that may hit close to home for many viewers.
While the narrative is engaging, it does stumble in places. However, the action more than makes up for it. Sam Wilson’s combat sequences are some of the best we’ve seen, blending his Falcon wings with the iconic shield in a way that feels fresh and dynamic. Danny Ramirez’s Joaquin Torres steps up as the new Falcon, bringing a fun “rookie sidekick” energy that adds another layer to the action.
Where Brave New World shines is in its character development. Harrison Ford’s Thaddeus Ross is brilliantly portrayed as a man under immense pressure, offering a more human side to the character, even as he transforms into the Red Hulk. However, despite the hype, the Red Hulk’s presence feels somewhat underwhelming—a missed opportunity given the character’s potential.
Giancarlo Esposito’s Sidewinder is another highlight, delivering the kind of calculated menace we’ve come to expect from him. But much like some of the other villains in the film, his screen time feels a little too brief. Additionally, a new villain is introduced, possibly hinting at bigger plans for the future, though as a standalone antagonist, they don’t quite measure up to the MCU’s best. And then there’s Ruth Bat-Seraph, whose inclusion feels a bit unnecessary—unless Marvel has bigger plans in store for her.
However, one of the most satisfying moments in Brave New World is that it finally addresses the lingering question fans have had since Eternals: what happened to the massive Celestial sticking out of the Indian Ocean? After three years of silence, Marvel is finally acknowledging its existence—but could this also be a clever distraction from the other major elephant in the room? (Cough Kang Cough).
Without giving too much away, Brave New World features a special cameo that will have Marvel fans buzzing. And for those wondering—yes, there’s one end-credits scene.
Despite some storytelling hiccups and underwhelming villain moments, Captain America: Brave New World delivers thrilling action, great character moments, and a classic MCU feel. It’s a fun, engaging, and timely Captain America story that proves Sam Wilson is more than worthy of the shield.
If you’ve been missing that old-school MCU magic, this might just be the film that reignites your excitement.