Marvel Studios has kicked off its 2025 slate with the release of "Captain America: Brave New World," and if this sequel is any indication, the MCU might be in for a turbulent year. Unfortunately, the film doesn't live up to expectations as the first major outing for Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson as the new Captain America. For a detailed analysis, you can refer to IGN's review of "Captain America: Brave New World."
The movie leaves audiences with several unanswered questions and underdeveloped characters, prompting a lot of head-scratching. Who exactly are the new characters like Ruth Bat-Seraph and Sidewinder? Why does The Leader seem less like a mastermind and more like a minor annoyance? Where's the Hulk? And what about the Avengers? Let's delve into the biggest "WTF" moments from "Captain America: Brave New World."
Captain America: Brave New World Gallery
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Where Was Banner This Whole Time?
After 17 years, Marvel finally revisited "The Incredible Hulk" with "Captain America: Brave New World," tying up many loose ends from Bruce Banner's first solo adventure. We see the aftermath of Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns' gamma exposure, Harrison Ford's Thaddeus Ross facing consequences for his past actions, and Liv Tyler returning as Betty Ross. However, one crucial element is missing: the Hulk himself. Why was Mark Ruffalo's Bruce Banner absent from a story so closely linked to his own?
Given Banner's history with Thaddeus Ross and his friend "Mr. Blue," now a gamma-irradiated super-genius, it seems odd that he wouldn't be involved. Moreover, with the Avengers disbanded, as established in "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings," and Banner's ongoing research and family life shown in "She-Hulk," his absence feels glaring. Marvel may eventually explain that Banner was off-world or busy with other commitments, but his absence leaves a significant gap in the narrative. Especially since the film focuses on Sam Wilson's journey to reform the Avengers, yet only includes a brief cameo from Sebastian Stan's Bucky.
Why Does The Leader Think So Small?
"Captain America: Brave New World" reintroduces Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns, now known as The Leader, who has transformed significantly since "The Incredible Hulk." With his superhuman intelligence, Sterns should be a tactical genius, yet the film doesn't fully showcase this. He seemingly overlooks Captain America's potential to thwart his plans, including a war between the US and Japan. Furthermore, Sterns surrenders during the climax to execute his final move against Ross—a simple recording played to the press—which raises questions about his strategy and long-term goals.
In the comics, The Leader is a formidable mastermind with global ambitions. Here, his motivation seems limited to personal vendettas against Ross, which feels underwhelming for a character of his caliber. If Sterns can foresee the multiverse's collapse, his focus on petty revenge seems out of place.
Why Is Red Hulk So Much Like Green Hulk?
Art by Ed McGuinness. (Image Credit: Marvel)
The film's climax features an epic battle between Sam Wilson and a transformed President Ross, who becomes Red Hulk. This twist draws from the comics, but the MCU's version deviates significantly. In the comics, Red Hulk retains his intelligence and tactical skills, making him a more strategic and ruthless adversary. In "Brave New World," however, Ross becomes a mindless beast, similar to the early Hulk, and is calmed by thoughts of Betty, which diminishes the character's potential.
While the irony of Ross turning into what he despises is compelling, fans might have hoped for a more comic-accurate portrayal of Red Hulk, showcasing his unique attributes. Future appearances could hopefully explore a different, more nuanced take on the character.
Why Did Those Blades Hurt Red Hulk but Not Bullets?
Red Hulk, like the original Hulk, boasts super-strength and some degree of invulnerability, demonstrated when he shrugs off bullets. Yet, Captain America's blades, made of Wakandan vibranium, manage to cut him. This suggests vibranium's unique properties allow it to pierce Red Hulk's skin in ways that conventional weapons cannot. This could hint at future confrontations involving other durable materials like adamantium, possibly leading to a Hulk vs. Wolverine showdown in the MCU.
Why Is Bucky a Politician Now?
Sebastian Stan's Bucky Barnes makes a cameo, revealing he's now running for Congress. This development is surprising, given his history as the Winter Soldier and his lack of previous political aspirations. Bucky's past as a manipulated assassin and his age could pose significant challenges to his political career. While it's refreshing to see the film acknowledge Sam and Bucky's friendship, the shift to politics feels abrupt. More insight into his motivations might be forthcoming in the "Thunderbolts" movie.
Why Does Sidewinder Want to Kill Cap So Badly?
Giancarlo Esposito's Sidewinder, leader of the terrorist group Serpent, becomes a new antagonist in the film. His deep-seated grudge against Captain America is hinted at but never fully explained. Even after his capture, Sidewinder vows to kill Sam, suggesting a personal vendetta. Given the film's reshoots, it's possible earlier drafts provided more context to their rivalry. With Esposito hinting at Sidewinder's future in a Disney+ series, this thread remains a mystery to be resolved.
What Was the Point of Sabra, Exactly?
Shira Haas plays Ruth Bat-Seraph, a former Red Room operative turned bodyguard for President Ross. Initially an adversary to Sam, she eventually becomes an ally but doesn't significantly impact the plot. Her role feels like a nod to the Black Widow archetype without a clear purpose. Moreover, the MCU's version of Ruth diverges greatly from the comic's Sabra, raising questions about why Marvel chose to adapt her character instead of creating a new one.
What’s the Deal With Adamantium Now?
"Captain America: Brave New World" introduces adamantium, a new super-metal discovered amidst the remains of Tiamut. While it serves as a plot device driving global tensions, its long-term implications remain unclear. Will it be as significant as vibranium, or is it merely a temporary MacGuffin? The introduction of adamantium paves the way for Wolverine's MCU debut, but its broader impact on the universe's future is still a mystery.
Why Are We No Closer to the Avengers?
Despite the introduction of numerous new heroes in recent years, the MCU has yet to reform the Avengers. "Captain America: Brave New World" teases the idea of bringing the team back together, with Sam Wilson accepting the role of leader. However, the film stops short of actualizing this, missing an opportunity to feature more Avengers in the climactic battle against Red Hulk. As "Avengers: Doomsday" approaches in 2026, the lack of groundwork for a new team-up feels like a missed opportunity.
What were your biggest "WTF" moments in "Captain America: Brave New World"? Do you think the film should have included more Avengers characters? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
