‘Captain America Brave New World’ Review: Sam Wilson’s Captain America Stands on His Own

*Spoiler Alert*

Cherry blossoms, red, white and blue, old people jokes and Harrison Ford as Red Hulk turns out to be the perfect ingredients for a highly anticipated Captain America movie. Who would have thought?

After over five years since Steve Rogers handed over his shield, Marvel fans finally get to experience Sam Wilson as Captain America on the cinematic screen.

The film follows the new Cap as he is immersed in an international conflict, facing off with multiple opponents from Samuel Sterns, Voelker, and of course Red Hulk. Unlike previous threats Wilson has faced as The Falcon, we see him be challenged physically and morally.

Thaddeus Ross, played by Harrison Ford, and Wilson butt heads frequently as the two navigate their conflicting ideas. These tensions are heightened as the film carefully weaves in elements from past Marvel stories, particularly “The Incredible Hulk” (2008).

For the first time in the MCU, the events of that film are acknowledged, tying in the storyline of President Thaddeus Ross, his relationship with his daughter Betty Ross, and the return of Sterns now stepping into his villainous role.

The film takes its time to establish these connections, ensuring that both longtime Marvel fans and newcomers understand the weight of these returning characters, doing an outstanding job of both pacing and storytelling.

Through the film, viewers witness Wilson find and make his definition of being Captain America with the help of Joaquin Torres from “The Falcon and The Winter Soldier” Disney+ Series.

Despite mixed reviews and skepticism of the film, the new and improved Sam Wilson as Captain America just makes sense. For years we’ve seen a patriotic super serum Captain America, now our Captain America has wings, and although he doesn’t have a serum to make him strong, strength isn’t something he’s lacking.

The film delves into Wilson’s journey of truly becoming Captain America rather than living in the past and reveling in the Captain America that once was. Instead of living in Steve Roger’s shadow, Wilson displays integrity and is a crusader.

When it comes to action, combat and most importantly, the suit, viewers are in for a treat. Wilson’s lack of superhuman strength is clear as the combat scenes are missing the Steve Rogers touch. However, what Wilson lacks in raw power he makes up for with agility, strategic skill, and the advanced technology of his suit, especially with the help of Redwing, which adds a unique dynamic to his fighting style.

For comic book readers, Wilson becoming Captain America was not unexpected, however, many cinematic fans felt Anthony Mackie, who debuted as The Falcon in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” in 2014, wouldn’t be a good fit for the role.

“Captain America represents a lot of different things and I don’t think the term ‘America’ should be one of those representations. It’s about a man who keeps his word, who has honor, dignity and integrity. Someone who is trustworthy and dependable,” Mackie said while promoting the film in Rome, Italy on Jan. 27.

Alongside Mackie, the film features an impressive cast including Giancarlo Esposito, the return of Carl Lumbly as Isaiah Bradley and a heartfelt cameo from Bucky aka the Winter Soldier.

Despite Ross and Wilson’s disagreements, both men recognize the need for a new team of Avengers, leaving fans wondering who will be the next Avengers? As “Brave New World” ushers in a new era for Captain America, it redefines the hero and sets up the stage for the future of the MCU.