Review by Jon Donnis
Captain America: Brave New World attempts to chart a bold new course for the MCU, but it stumbles under the weight of its ambitions. Picking up after The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, the film follows Sam Wilson as he struggles to define what it means to be Captain America in a world still haunted by past mistakes. Anthony Mackie brings depth to the role, portraying Wilson as a man torn between duty and doubt. The relationship between Wilson and Joaquin Torres is a highlight, with Torres stepping into the Falcon mantle with youthful enthusiasm. Their dynamic is heartfelt, but the film repeatedly reminds viewers that neither of them has superpowers, which feels like an unnecessary attempt to underline their vulnerability. Isaiah Bradley's presence adds emotional gravity, as his painful history with the government contrasts with Wilson's hopeful vision for the future.
The plot revolves around the discovery of adamantium on Celestial Island and the political turmoil that follows. President Thaddeus Ross, played with gravitas by Harrison Ford, tries to prevent an arms race, but his hidden dealings with Dr Samuel Sterns spiral out of control. Sterns, now fully transformed into the Leader, manipulates events from the shadows, using mind control to orchestrate an attack on the White House. The action sequences are well choreographed, with standout moments like Wilson and Torres intercepting mind-controlled pilots over the ocean. The fight against the Red Hulk is intense, though the CGI struggles to keep up, resulting in visuals that feel rough and unpolished. It is a recurring issue in recent Marvel films, and it detracts from what should be jaw-dropping set pieces.
Brave New World attempts to explore political themes, but its commentary is surface-level at best. The adamantium treaty and its global implications could have been a rich narrative thread, but the film rushes through these elements to make room for action. The inclusion of numerous cameos and easter eggs adds to the sense of overcrowding, making the story feel more like a setup for future projects than a cohesive standalone film. Ross's transformation into Red Hulk is a powerful moment, especially when Wilson talks him down by reminding him of his estranged daughter, but it is not given enough time to breathe. The emotional beats are there, but they are often overshadowed by the film's need to keep the plot moving.
Despite its flaws, the film still delivers moments of genuine excitement and heart. The bond between Wilson, Torres, and Ruth Bat-Seraph feels authentic, and their teamwork in the final act is satisfying to watch. The film ends on a hopeful note and the post-credits scene, teasing an otherworldly threat, hints at bigger things to come, but whether the MCU can regain its footing remains uncertain.
Captain America: Brave New World is a serviceable entry in the franchise, propped up by strong performances and thrilling action, but dragged down by an overstuffed plot and inconsistent visual effects. It is a film that wants to be more than it is, and while it never quite reaches its full potential, it is still an enjoyable watch for fans invested in the MCU's ongoing saga. It may not be the triumphant return to form that some hoped for, but it is a step in the right direction for Sam Wilson's Captain America. I would give it a solid 7.5 out of 10, not spectacular, but far from a failure.
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