Anthony Mackie’s return as Captain America in “Captain America: Brave New World,” which opens this weekend, marks an important chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as it continues with Phase Five. While some might expect heightened excitement due to a reduced frequency of superhero films—only “Deadpool and Wolverine” was released last year—the film faces unique challenges that temper those expectations.
Despite Mackie’s depiction of Captain America being familiar and well-received, “Brave New World” ultimately feels lacking in originality and depth. While Mackie brings an engaging blend of personality, intellect, and physicality to his role, and enjoys a solid dynamic with co-star Harrison Ford, who portrays Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, the film does not quite stand out in the extensive Marvel catalog.
Mackie’s character, who succeeded Steve Rogers at the end of the last “Avengers” film, finds himself embroiled in a conspiracy as he navigates the complexities of leadership. The plot thickens as he and his sidekick, Joaquin Torres, confront an assassination attempt on President Ross, coinciding with critical treaty negotiations involving a rare resource. The unfolding mystery connects back to familiar names from the MCU, including Isaiah Bradley and Samuel Sterns, reminding fans of the franchise’s roots.
However, “Brave New World” primarily serves as a setup for future films, including the anticipated “Avengers: Doomsday,” slated for 2026. This creates limitations for deeper character exploration, particularly regarding Wilson’s internal conflict about stepping into Captain America’s iconic role.
Director Julius Onah and the writing team included Rob Edwards, Malcolm Spellman, and Dalan Musson had the opportunity to delve into these themes, which may have allowed for a more compelling narrative. When the film focuses on Wilson’s struggle with legacy and responsibility, Mackie shines, suggesting that the emotional depth within the action can resonate strongly with audiences.
Overall, while “Captain America: Brave New World” has its merits, it remains a transitional piece in the MCU, potentially leaving audiences yearning for more depth and innovation. As we await the further developments in the Marvel franchise, this film still lays the groundwork for Sam Wilson’s journey ahead.
In light of its challenges, there is hope that as Marvel continues to evolve, we will see increasingly complex storytelling and character development, reinvigorating the superhero genre while honoring its legacies.
Summary: “Captain America: Brave New World” offers a mixed experience, with Anthony Mackie’s portrayal of Sam Wilson showing promise amidst a film that primarily sets the stage for future Marvel projects. While it’s not groundbreaking, there remains potential for deeper character exploration as the franchise progresses.