REVIEW: “Captain America: Brave New World” (2025)

 

WRITER’S NOTE: The following was originally posted on my Facebook page on February 21, 2025. 

After one solo entry in 2024, Marvel Studios gets back on schedule—and back-to-basics, in a sense—with multiple projects out this year, starting with the latest iteration of Captain America. In Brave New World, Sam Wilson a.k.a. the Falcon (the awesome Anthony Mackie) has now taken on the mantel and shield, passed down from Steve Rogers. Meanwhile, former General Thaddeus Ross (the legendary Harrison Ford, replacing the late William Hurt) has now become the President of the United States, and a conspiracy that’s been covered up for years has been emerging, and under way. (“Who’s playing who,” we’re asked.) Did I mention there’s also a Red Hulk? 

Shot on Panavision cameras but mimicking the look of film grain (opening black-and-white cards included), this new story makes references to the “Snap” (from Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame), as well as extraterrestrial events (from MCU Phases 4 and 5 so far). I consider it something of a throwback, since the story and tone recalls the very beginning of the MCU with Iron Man in 2008–the same year that The Incredible Hulk was released, of which Brave New World makes several callbacks to as well. The movie also retains the political-thriller vibes of Winter Soldier, Civil War, and the Falcon streaming series before it. 

Wilson’s Cap outfit is killer, with expansive falcon wings, physics-defying action and intense, hard-hitting violence, including some full-throttle aerial sequences. There’s a road trip subplot featuring road maps (hence, a possible reason for the picture quality’s grainy look). But what really sets this installment apart are the sci-fi and fantasy elements thrown into the mix, with references to 2021’s underwhelming Eternals. The build-up and anticipation of the intense Red Hulk showdown (with motion capturing of Ford’s face) turns out to be jaw-dropping, effective and satisfying, even emotionally-involving. 

Key themes in this story revolve around change, specifically wanting to be better people and standing for something greater, relevant themes in today’s culture and world. Ross’s campaign promises include unity and “a better way forward,” insisting on seeing a peace treaty through, and wanting to “rebuilt” the Avengers, despite how he treated them before. (Remember the Sokovia Accords?) But for what real purpose: for the public, or for his own reputation—especially with an estranged daughter. 

There are also elements of manipulation, compromises, and triggers, from Ross’s hidden rage and apparent desperation, to the layered and compelling character of Isaiah Bradley (Carl Lumbly), a former “super-soldier” introduced in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier series. Sam even questions why he was chosen, let alone worthy, to take up the mantle and shield, despite not being subject to the same serum that made his predecessor and friend the superhero he was, wondering how much he’ll be enough. “Steve gave the world something to believe in,” he’s told, “but you [Sam] gave them something to aspire to.” 

Captain America: Brave New World has a gritty and immersive tone, to be sure. It even brings a few things full circle to Captain America: Civil War. But some of its strengths can also be its weaknesses, including some familiar franchise tropes. After all, the movie has been getting mixed reviews from critics and audiences lately, despite having an impressive box-office run so far. The result is a really good but not great popcorn muncher. 

On the more exciting end, a few plot details could suggest that certain Marvel characters may be arriving to the MCU sooner than we think. The Fantastic Four will be later this summer! Stay tuned. 

#filmfreeq #bekerianreviews #21stcenturycinema #marvelstudios #mcuphase5 #juliusonah #anthonymackie #captainamericabravenewworld2025

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