Sam Wilson may not have taken the Super Soldier Serum, but Captain America: Brave New World proved his superpower is his heart. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier teased that, and this new MCU film explores it.
A fun and solid comic book movie, Captain America: Brave New World captivates with thrills and intensity — both physically and emotionally. The film dives (literally) right into the action and opens with a fast pace. It features engaging fight sequences fans want from Marvel and takes advantage of the creativity in-flight scenes offer.
The story feels sometimes clunky as it progresses, and the script also needs work in some places. But the political thriller plot works well even if it’s not groundbreaking. The movie has a perfect runtime and doesn’t try to overdo anything. Having a grounded film in the midst of the Multiverse Saga is refreshing, too.
But, above all else, this is an emotionally driven narrative that solidifies Sam as Captain America.
This Captain America: Brave New World review contains mild spoilers.
Sam Wilson Defines His Heroism in Captain America: Brave New World
If The Falcon and the Winter Soldier was about how Sam Wilson accepts the mantle of Captain America, then Captain America: Brave New World is about who Sam Wilson is as Captain America. The movie centers around Sam being his own version of the iconic hero.
The Super Soldier Serum came up a bit one too many times, if we’re being honest. But it’s an important thing to note as a contrast to the everyman of Sam’s Captain America. On the surface, Sam can hold his own with great fighting skills and amazing technology. The vibranium wings are ridiculously awesome, and Sam truly utilizes the wings, their features, and flying abilities to his advantage.
Fighting skills and technology can only get you so far, though, when you’re up against Red Hulk. So how does Sam be a hero and leader? By appealing to people’s humanity and leading with his heart. He seeks to help others by reaching them as human beings. It’s a great way to maintain that connection to Sam’s background as a counselor.
That humanity and empathy define Sam as Captain America and make him a leader and inspiration for everyone. The fact Sam dabbles in other languages, from Spanish to Japanese, is telling of how he wants to connect with others genuinely. He — as a certain unnamed character put it — truly is a Captain America for people to aspire to.
Captain of Chemistry in a Crowded Cast
A statement potentially as bold as Red Hulk’s crimson hue, Sam, Joaquín Torres, and Isaiah Bradley are the best trio. They’re an excellent combination of different generations yet all have stories to offer. It would be a shame if all we ever see of them together is in Captain America: Brave New World. From bonding during training at Isaiah’s house to celebrating in the limousine, their lighthearted moments helped set the tone for how the film is grounded in emotion and relationships.
Sam’s dynamic with both men is great because of Anthony Mackie’s chemistry with Danny Ramirez and Carl Lumbly. On their own, Ramirez brings effortless charm, youth, and eagerness to Joaquín. And Lumbly expertly delivers the hope and heartbreak of Isaiah’s story. Beyond that, Harrison Ford is perfect as President Thaddeus Ross/Red Hulk. The anger and anguish he offers through facial expressions alone is unbelievable. He meshes well with Mackie’s Captain America, too.
Captain America: Brave New World does have a crowded cast of characters though. That alone isn’t an issue, but many characters aren’t established well enough or are new to the MCU. The villains are good and used purposefully. Samuel Sterns returns with understandable vengeance, acting as the primary villain who’s pulling all the strings. Sidewinder hails from a Serpent Society that doesn’t get fleshed out in the movie, but his role is still impactful.
The female characters, however, aren’t integrated properly despite being set up as important. If neither Agent Leila Taylor nor Ruth Bat-Seraph was included, the movie easily could have played out the same way.
High-Flying Heroics and Fun Fights in Captain America: Brave New World
Captain America: Brave New World is a real treat for fans of action. The on-ground fighting is nice, but the aerial sequences are a delight. Sam has proven in previous projects that he has the talent and physicality to fight, but he has a certain flair and his own style during battles now.
Joaquín’s Falcon is capable and confident. Whether providing tech support or physical backup in flight and for fights, he works well in the field alongside Sam. But he needs to learn. Beyond the charisma, Joaquín expresses an eagerness and devotion that highlights his potential moving forward.
The finale fight with Red Hulk is good and engaging but doesn’t compete with other iconic MCU fights — the elevator scene from fellow political thriller Captain America: The Winter Soldier comes to mind. It makes sense, though, that it doesn’t because of how Sam is ultimately a mediator. Captain America: Brave New World is a Captain America movie, so action is expected. But it’s not a movie led by a Super Soldier.
Humanity, Heartfelt Relationships and The Incredible Hulk Payoff
In a movie rooted in heart and humanity, the relationships are such a driving force in Captain America: Brave New World. Sam and Joaquín have a brotherly, mentor-mentee relationship that was fun to see and will be wonderful to explore in the future. Sam and Isaiah have a heartwarming bond rooted in Sam’s dedication to giving Isaiah the life and recognition he deserves. That commitment drives Sam throughout the film, doing everything he can to clear Isaiah’s name in the assassination attempt on President Ross. Both connections are among the best parts of the movie.
Ross, too, is driven by relationships in the film — or at least one in particular. Though he’s sometimes misguided and selfish, his desire to repair the relationship with his daughter, Betty Ross, is a guiding force. Captain America: Brave New World is the first time the MCU is highlighting his humanity. Before, he was shown just as this angry authoritative figure of power who gets his way. He’s still that, but reconciling with his daughter motivates him more than even adamantium.
Sam wants that for him and appeals to that need to save the day. And it feels like the most proper ending for a Captain America movie led by a counselor. Along with Samuel Sterns becoming the Leader, it’s one thing that makes the film feel a bit like a pseudo-The Incredible Hulk sequel. But who else would share their movie to provide closure for someone else’s besides Captain America?
Captain America: Brave New World is now in theaters.
