“Captain America: Brave New World,” directed by Julius Onah, was released on Feb. 14.
The latest installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe follows Sam Wilson, the new Captain America, who needs to stop the mastermind behind a sprawling international conflict. The film stars Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson, Harrison Ford as President Thaddeus Ross, Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres (the Falcon), and Carl Lumbly as Isaiah Bradley.
One of the major flaws in the film is the many overlapping storylines, which is due to the needlessly complicated plot. As a result, characters aren’t given enough screen time to have character development throughout the film. Although the film includes a few different emotional moments with many of the main characters, the audience isn’t given enough depth to emotionally connect with the characters on screen.
There have been reports that the film went through reshoots to restructure or rewrite certain scenes or storylines, according to Variety. The film contains repeating exposition meant to ensure the audience understands the plot, as well as some awkward camera angles in scenes where two characters are engaged in direct conversation or monologues.
While this new MCU film has flaws, there are many positive aspects to the film as well.
Many of the action sequences are very engaging because of the visual effects, sound design, musical score, and fight choreography. The action sequences build tension in the film, which leads up to the fight between Captain America and the Red Hulk during the film’s climax.
The acting performances of the cast are another positive aspect of the film. Harrison Ford replaced William Hurt as Thaddeus Ross after Hurt passed away in 2022. Harrison Ford had one of the best performances in the film as he gave more depth to President Ross through his growing anger that leads to him transforming into the Red Hulk and his desperation to reconnect with his daughter throughout the film. Carl Lumbly, Danny Ramirez, and Shira Haas, who plays Ruth Bat-Seraph, also give great performances.
Sam Wilson does not have too much character development throughout the film. However, one scene that includes a cameo of a familiar MCU character highlights Wilson as he reflects on living up to the mantle of Captain America and being a symbol of inspiration for people.
Tim Blake Nelson plays the main antagonist, Samuel Sterns, the Leader. This villain isn’t as captivating as previous MCU villains but is able to provide a level of suspense and evil as he interacts with the main characters and manipulates the conflict for the heroes to overcome.
Overall, this MCU film crumbles under the weight of having too many storylines and repetitive exposition, but it also has many exciting action sequences and great acting performances. It doesn’t live up to the standards of being a great MCU film, such as the previous Captain America films, but it is also not a bad MCU film.