Captain America: Brave New World – Review

Synopsis (No Spoilers)

Captain America: Brave New World follows Sam Wilson, the new Captain America, as he faces challenges both personal and global. Five months into Thaddeus Ross’s presidency, Wilson and his new partner, Joaquin Torres (the new Falcon), are sent to Oaxaca, Mexico, to thwart the Serpent Society’s illegal activities. This mission propels them into a complex web of political intrigue involving the discovery of a new metal, adamantium, on Celestial Island—a landmass formed from the emergence of the Celestial Tiamut. As Wilson grapples with his role without super-soldier abilities, he confronts threats that test his resolve and leadership.

Production Troubles & Reshoots

The film encountered notable production challenges, including rewrites, delays, and extensive reshoots. Marvel Studios reworked significant portions of the movie to adjust its tone and pacing, raising concerns about the final outcome. Despite these hurdles, the film delivers a coherent and engaging story, even if it doesn’t rank among the MCU’s best.

Review

While Brave New World isn’t the pinnacle of the MCU, it’s far from its weakest entry. The narrative is straightforward and easy to follow, though it doesn’t venture into new territory. The antagonist, Dr. Samuel Sterns, portrayed by Tim Blake Nelson, is not the most memorable villain but has understandable motivations that add depth to the conflict.

The action sequences, particularly the aerial stunts, are standout moments, delivering some of the most thrilling scenes in recent MCU films. The choreography and practical effects provide a visceral, engaging experience that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Anthony Mackie offers a compelling performance as Sam Wilson. He effortlessly balances humor and seriousness, a trait he showcased in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. That series delved into Sam’s transition into Captain America, highlighting the weight of the mantle. In Brave New World, we witness a new struggle—Sam questioning his adequacy without the super-soldier serum. This internal conflict adds depth to his character and reinforces why he was chosen to carry the shield.

Mackie’s chemistry with Danny Ramirez’s Joaquin Torres is another highlight. Their dynamic is enjoyable, adding lighthearted moments that balance the film’s intensity. Additionally, Harrison Ford steps into the role of Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, bringing his signature gravitas to the character and proving to be a solid replacement.

Final Thoughts

The harsh criticism surrounding Brave New World seems to stem more from resistance to a new Captain America than the film’s actual quality. While it doesn’t reach the heights of Winter Soldier or Civil War, it meets the standard of many past MCU films. It delivers solid action, a decent story, and strong performances, making it an entertaining addition to the franchise. Fans open to Sam Wilson’s continued journey will find much to appreciate.