Movies

Captain America: Brave New World is a victim of the MCU’s need to reset

BBG News

The long-awaited film, titled “Captain America: Brave New World,” will hit theaters this coming Friday. However, unlike previous Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) releases, there seems to be less anticipation surrounding this movie. Instead, there’s been more chatter about the upcoming films of 2025, specifically Thunderbolts and The Fantastic Four: First Steps.

*Note: Thunderbolts is not an official title, it was used for context in the original text. The correct title as of now is unknown.

It’s important to generate excitement since this is the initial standalone movie appearance for Anthony Mackie as the new Captain America, post the happenings of “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” and the “Captain America” series, which has consistently been a strong contender in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

However, discussions about extensive reshoots (which are not unusual for Marvel productions) and disappointing test screenings have caused a decline in enthusiasm for Brave New World. Even its world premiere resulted in surprisingly mixed initial responses for a Marvel film, and unfortunately, these assessments were accurate.

As a devoted admirer, I’d say that “Captain America: Brave New World” is competently executed, boasting impressive action sequences and fitting seamlessly into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). However, this very integration might be the factor limiting its potential greatness.

In essence, the narrative of “Captain America: Brave New World” serves multiple purposes: it extends the storyline initiated in “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” ties up lingering plot points within the Marvel Cinematic Universe that weren’t crucial for resolution, and sets a new direction or correction for the future course of the MCU.

The story manages to cram a lot into just two hours, and it’s quite impressive how well everything seems to connect. This has necessitated some noticeable ADR editing, but it ensures that you won’t feel like you need to study up on the plot, such as rewatching The Incredible Hulk (which is helpfully summarized in a pre-title newsreel), to keep up.

In other words, “Brave New World” struggles to introduce an engaging new Captain America narrative because it keeps focusing on various aspects, making the central theme of Sam Wilson’s readiness for the shield feel repetitive from his Disney+ series, and the political elements evoke memories of superior Captain America films.

At a certain moment, while the newly inaugurated U.S. President Thaddeus ‘Thunderbolt’ Ross (portrayed by Harrison Ford), is onboard Air Force One, one could momentarily yearn for the experience of revisiting that iconic 1997 film.

As a result of the complex storyline, the script frequently reduces to characters providing background information or clearly explaining the events unfolding on screen. In the climactic ending, Sam even declares, “This is what [SPOILER] desires,” in case we were confused about the plot progression.

Despite the talented cast, the plot issues make it challenging for them to keep the events engaging, and while watching Harrison Ford display some Hulk-like scenes was enjoyable, there’s a limit to how much excitement they can bring to the story.

Some Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) enthusiasts, or even those who simply enjoy blockbuster films, might not be overly concerned about the plot of Brave New World, but rather eager for the on-screen action. The film does deliver in this regard, maintaining a fast-paced rhythm with numerous action sequences and sufficient hand-to-hand combat involving shield-throwing to keep viewers satisfied.

Despite its contemporary setting, the action is often shrouded in dimly lit, shadowy environments and rapid editing intended to create tension. However, this technique more often results in a sense of bewilderment regarding who is attacking whom. Yet, it’s worth noting that, with only one exception, the action was primarily filmed on-site with minimal digital enhancements.

It’s fortunate if fans haven’t watched the trailers because most of what’s shown here has already been disclosed. The scenes featuring Red Hulk don’t materialize until later, but on the bright side, we haven’t seen Samuel Sterns’ (Tim Blake Nelson) updated appearance yet, and there are a few small surprises for viewers that I won’t spoil.

In the end, “Captain America: Brave New World” might make you feel like you’ve already experienced its storyline before.

Due to the Marvel Cinematic Universe having to adjust its trajectory for the approaching Avengers films, we’ve missed out on the opportunity to witness Anthony Mackie fully shine as Captain America in a film that truly suits him.

Captain America: Brave New World is released in cinemas on February 14.

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2025-02-12 20:51

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