My wife and I saw Captain America: Brave New World on opening weekend, which began February 14, 2025. Before watching, I had read many online reviews—most of them negative, though some were positive. I also heard from friends who had already seen the movie and said they enjoyed it. With all that in mind, I went into the theater with an open mind and came out thinking the film was good, though not great. It was entertaining and delivered some solid character moments despite some noticeable flaws.
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Cast and Characters
The film stars Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson/Captain America, Harrison Ford as President Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, Tim Blake Nelson as Samuel Sterns/The Leader, Liv Tyler as Betty Ross, and Danny Ramirez as Joaquín Torres/Falcon. Other key characters include Isaiah Bradley, played by Carl Lumbly, and Shira Haas as Sabra. Sebastian Stan makes a cameo appearance as Bucky Barnes, giving Sam the motivational speech that he needs. The cast does a commendable job, with Anthony Mackie delivering a strong performance as Captain America, showcasing his growth in the role. Ford brings gravitas to his portrayal of Ross.
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Criticism and Controversy
One of the major criticisms from some fans was the film’s action sequences and CGI, which many felt were of poor quality. Some also took issue with the pacing and overall direction. Another recurring criticism came from those who disliked the idea of Sam Wilson taking over as Captain America, claiming that Marvel was caving to “woke” mentality and diversity-focused storytelling. However, this criticism ignores the fact that Sam Wilson’s becoming Captain America follows established comic book lore, rather than being a new invention for the film.
Sam Wilson: More Than Just the Falcon
Sam Wilson has been a major Marvel character since his debut as the Falcon in Captain America #117 (1969). Created by Stan Lee and Gene Colan, he became one of Marvel’s first Black superheroes (following the Black Panther), fighting alongside Steve Rogers for decades. His transition to Captain America wasn’t a sudden, movie-driven decision—it followed the Sam Wilson Captain America comics run starting in 2014 when Steve passed the shield to him, making it clear that he was a worthy successor.
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General Ross and Samuel Sterns – A Longstanding Rivalry
Harrison Ford’s President Ross has long been a staple of Marvel Comics, first appearing in The Incredible Hulk #1 (1962). A former general and a relentless pursuer of the Hulk, Ross eventually became the Red Hulk himself in later storylines. Tim Blake Nelson’s Samuel Sterns, better known as The Leader, debuted in Tales to Astonish #62 (1964). His presence in Brave New World marks a long-awaited return of The Leader in the MCU after his first appearance in The Incredible Hulk (2008) with Edward Norton. Ross and Sterns have shared history in both comics and film, and their connection in this movie is a nod to their long-standing conflict. While the film hints at Ross’s complicated history with the Hulk, it remains to be seen how far his transformation may go.
Filling Steve Rogers’ Boots
One of the most compelling aspects of Brave New World is how it highlights the challenges Sam faces as Captain America. Unlike Steve Rogers, he lacks the Super Soldier Serum, meaning he has to rely on his skill, strategy, and determination rather than enhanced strength. The film leans into this, showcasing his ability to adapt and lead despite not having superhuman abilities. His version of Captain America is about resilience, integrity, and the responsibility of carrying the shield—not just about physical power.
Box Office Performance
The film earned $40 million on opening day, which is the 2nd highest for a Marvel movie. This unexpected strong performance at the box office suggests that despite the criticism, there is significant audience interest in Sam Wilson’s story and his role as Captain America. This film is a crucial entry in Marvel Cinematic Universe Phase 5, continuing its evolving storylines.
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Critical Reception
Critics and fans remain divided on Brave New World. CBR.com provided both positive and negative perspectives, with articles such as “I Liked Captain America: Brave New World, But This Problematic MCU Trend Needs to End” and “10 Valid Reasons Fans Don’t Like Captain America: Brave New World.” CinemaBlend.com took a more critical stance, stating in their review, “Captain America: Brave New World Review: I’m Officially Worried About The Future Of The Marvel Cinematic Universe.” These reviews reflect the ongoing debate about the film’s strengths and weaknesses, from its faithfulness to the comics to concerns about the MCU’s overall direction.
Does the Movie Deliver?
While Brave New World may not be the best MCU film, it is still a solid entry in the franchise, in my opinion. The action sequences are engaging, Sam’s character development is strong, and the film does justice to his comic book legacy. However, some pacing issues and underdeveloped side characters hold it back from being truly great. Fans who appreciate character-driven storytelling will find much to enjoy, while those expecting high-stakes spectacle on par with Winter Soldier might leave disappointed.
Final Verdict
Captain America: Brave New World is a good, but not great, installment in the MCU. It respects Sam Wilson’s comic book origins and solidifies him as a worthy Captain America, even if the execution isn’t flawless. If you’re a fan of Sam’s journey from Falcon to Cap, this film is worth watching.
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This was such a well-rounded breakdown of Captain America: Brave New World! I love how you covered both the excitement surrounding Sam Wilson’s journey as Cap and the deeper themes the movie might explore. The way Marvel balances action with storytelling always keeps fans engaged. Also, those affiliate links to related merch are a great touch for die-hard collectors! What are your thoughts on how this film will compare to previous Captain America movies in terms of impact?
Thank you so much, Kavitha! I really appreciate your kind words and your enthusiasm for Sam Wilson’s journey as Captain America. Marvel does an incredible job blending action with deeper themes, and I’m excited to see how Brave New World continues that tradition.
As for its impact compared to previous Captain America films, it’s really difficult to say right now. It did exceed expectations for opening weekend. This was enough to push star Anthony Mackie’s career box office haul past a major milestone, cementing him as one of the 100 highest-grossing stars of all time at the global box office.
There are still some critics of the movie, saying it doesn’t measure up to other Cap movies, notably Winter Soldier. Even so, I am sure we have not seen the end of the new Captain America in the MCU. I’m looking forward to more!
– Scott
This is a well-balanced and insightful review! I appreciate how you acknowledged both the film’s strengths and shortcomings without leaning too far into the polarized opinions circulating online. Anthony Mackie’s portrayal of Sam Wilson as Captain America is a significant and meaningful evolution in the MCU, and I’m glad you highlighted how it aligns with the comics rather than being a forced change.
The discussion on the film’s action and pacing issues is fair—I’ve heard similar critiques from other viewers. However, it’s great to see that despite its flaws, the movie still delivers compelling character moments and respects Sam’s journey.
I also liked how you explored the connections between Ross, Sterns, and their comic book origins. It’s always fascinating to see how these long-standing rivalries translate to the big screen.
Looking forward to your deep dive into Sam Wilson’s comic book history! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
HI Alice,
Thank you for reading and leaving a comment. Whenever I see a Marvel movie, my mind always goes back to the characters as they were originally in the comics. I think it’s fun to see the similarities and differences in their portrayal.
I hope you come back for more superhero fun!
– Scott
Thank you for this great review on Captain America – Brave New World. I haven’t managed to see it yet, but I see it is an great all star line up, so I was wondering what it would be like. I am a big fan of Harrison Ford. $40 million is a huge opening day cash-in for them.
Disappointed to read that the action scenes were not great, as they normally are in these types of films. You say it is good but not great. Would you still say it is worth seeing?
Hi Michel,
My wife is also a huge Harrison Ford fan. It’s amazing that he’s still making action films at his age.
I definitely think it’s worth seeing! You should take the opportunity to see it on the big screen. It is breathtaking to see how he uses his wings that are now made of vibranium from Wakanda. Most of these Marvel movies can stand on their own merits, even though some are better than others.
Please come back for more superhero fun!
– Scott
This review brilliantly captures the nuanced evolution of an iconic hero. It’s refreshing to see a balanced take on Captain America: Brave New World that respects the legacy of both Steve Rogers and Sam Wilson, while honestly addressing the films strengths and flaws. The discussion around Sam Wilson’s transition as Captain America feels particularly resonant it challenges traditional expectations and invites us to see heroism as a journey of resilience and reinvention rather than mere physical might.
What truly stands out is how the review acknowledges the film’s imperfections whether it’s the pacing, CGI, or underdeveloped side characters without dismissing the powerful character moments that make the movie engaging. It’s a reminder that even in a universe of superpowers, the most compelling stories are those grounded in human emotion and the courage to evolve.
For fans and newcomers alike, this balanced perspective not only deepens our appreciation for the film’s narrative risks but also provokes a broader reflection on what it means to lead and inspire in changing times. In a world where expectations are constantly shifting, the review underscores that true strength lies in adaptability, integrity, and the willingness to embrace a brave new chapter even when it challenges our preconceptions.
That’s a great job!
Dan,
Thank you for your kind words. Please come back for more superhero fun!
– Scott
Scott, I appreciate this balanced and thoughtful review of Captain America: Brave New World! It’s refreshing to see a perspective that acknowledges both the film’s strengths and its shortcomings without being overly harsh or overly forgiving. I agree that Anthony Mackie does a great job as Sam Wilson, making the role his own while still respecting the legacy of Captain America. The dynamic between him and Harrison Ford’s President Ross was a highlight for me, and it’s exciting to see The Leader finally return to the MCU.
The criticism around CGI and action sequences is understandable, though I personally didn’t find it as distracting as some reviews suggested. As for the complaints about Sam taking on the mantle, I think you nailed it—his transition is deeply rooted in the comics, and it’s great to see that play out on screen.
It’s clear that opinions are divided on this one, but it’s encouraging to see it performing well at the box office. Looking forward to your deep dive into Sam’s comic history!
HI,
Thanks for reading and leaving a comment!
Please come back for more superhero fun!
– Scott
Great review! I appreciate your balanced take on Captain America: Brave New World, especially considering the mix of positive and negative reviews out there. It’s interesting how some criticisms—like the CGI and pacing—seem to be common across many Marvel films lately. Do you think this is more of a budget/time constraint issue, or does it point to a larger trend in Marvel’s storytelling and production?
Also, I liked your point about the controversy surrounding Sam Wilson as Captain America. Given that his transition follows comic book canon, do you think some of the backlash is more about resistance to change in general rather than the character itself? Or is there a deeper divide between comic fans and movie audiences on these adaptations?
Lastly, what were your thoughts on Harrison Ford’s portrayal of Ross? Did he bring something fresh to the role, or did you feel the film underutilized his presence?
Looking forward to your thoughts!
Thanks for the thoughtful comment, Jeff! I’m glad you appreciated the balanced take.
Regarding your first point about CGI and pacing, I think it’s a bit of both. The growing use of CGI in Marvel films, combined with tight production schedules, can sometimes lead to less polished effects or pacing issues. However, it also reflects a larger trend where the focus has shifted more toward spectacle and world-building, which can occasionally lead to pacing problems. That said, there’s definitely room for improvement in maintaining that balance.
As for the backlash against Sam Wilson’s transition into Captain America, I believe it stems more from resistance to change. While some fans are uncomfortable with the idea of a new character taking on such an iconic role, especially one that deviates from what’s familiar, it’s important to remember that Sam’s journey in the comics has been integral to his character development. It’s less about him specifically and more about the general hesitancy around change in legacy characters. There’s a divide, for sure, between comic fans who have had years to accept these changes and movie audiences who are more attached to the cinematic history of characters like Steve Rogers. Also, as I pointed out in my post, I have read comments from people who think the choice of Sam to be the next Captain America was an example of Marvel and/or Disney caving to the DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) culture in the U.S. With the current political temperature turning back DEI influence, there are some people that see DEI everywhere, even when it’s not there.
As for Harrison Ford’s portrayal of Thaddeus Ross, I thought he brought a unique gravitas to the role, adding a level of depth and complexity that we hadn’t seen before. His performance was definitely compelling, though it did feel like the character was a bit underutilized in this particular film. I’m hoping we see more of him in future installments, where his presence can be more fully realized. Ford’s appearance did add some star power to the film; although some movie fans wish this movie could have been made when William Hurt (March 20, 1950 – March 13, 2022) was alive, as they believe he played a better Ross.
I appreciate you sparking these discussions, and I look forward to diving deeper into these topics in future posts!
– Scott
Here are 10 balanced thoughts on Captain America: Brave New World – A Balanced Review:
1. The film boldly expands the Captain America mythos, taking the hero into fresh, thought-provoking territory while still honoring his classic roots.
2. Its high-energy action sequences and state-of-the-art visual effects deliver the spectacle fans expect, even if some scenes feel a bit overlong.
3. The screenplay blends character-driven moments with blockbuster thrills, though the pacing can occasionally feel uneven.
4. Strong performances from the supporting cast add depth and nuance, creating engaging interpersonal dynamics.
5. While certain plot twists echo familiar Marvel formulas, the film introduces enough innovative elements to keep the narrative exciting.
6. The direction strikes a balance between light-hearted heroism and the darker, more complex themes of leadership and sacrifice.
7. Its commentary on modern societal issues—trust, duty, and the cost of heroism—adds meaningful layers without becoming overly preachy.
8. Some tonal shifts may jar viewers, but overall, the film maintains coherence across its various narrative threads.
9. The musical score and sound design effectively underscore both the high-stakes action and quieter, introspective moments.
10. Ultimately, Captain America: Brave New World is an ambitious installment that successfully bridges classic Marvel entertainment with a more mature, reflective exploration of its iconic hero.
Hi JP,
Thank you for reading and bringing more perspective.
Please come back for more superhero fun!
– Scott
I like the Captain America franchise though I never watched all the movies! I really enjoyed the starting point story and in general I like Marvel movies. I really appreciated the honesty of your review because you admitted that though it’s not the best movie of the franchise, it was still watchable. Actually, I don’t even think that the mainstream public cares about the storyline or anything that is artistic. If there are some action, and characters we like and that are to be remembered, the movie is good!
Thanks for your thoughtful comment! The Captain America franchise has had some fantastic movies, and it’s great to hear that you enjoyed the early ones. I appreciate your perspective—sometimes, a movie doesn’t need to be the best in the series to still be enjoyable. Marvel has always excelled at giving us memorable characters and action, and that’s often enough for a fun experience. Do you have a favorite Marvel movie so far?
– Scott
With box office takings of $40 million on opening night, it seems that Brave New World was well supported by loyal fans of Captain America and the movies from Marvel Studios. And although many critics felt that the movie’s action sequences and CGI were of low quality, there are also many positive reviews.
The all star cast certainly indicates that it could be worth watching Brave New World. I am a huge fan of Harrison Ford, and that would be a good motivation for me to watch the movie, and decide if it lives up to be good, or not worth it. Thank you for sharing this honest review.
Thanks for your thoughtful comment, LineCowley! Captain America: Brave New World definitely had strong support from fans on opening night, despite the mixed reactions from critics. The action and CGI debates are interesting, but as you pointed out, there are plenty of positive reviews as well.
Harrison Ford’s presence as Thunderbolt Ross is a big draw for many, and it’ll be exciting to see how he portrays the character. If you do watch the movie, I’d love to hear your thoughts on whether it lived up to expectations! Thanks again for reading and sharing your perspective.
– Scott
I applaud your knowledge on the history of Captain America from the Great Steve Rogers to the new one Sam Wilson who was The Falcon I believe Sam Wilson is suited for the role but those are boots to fill. Thank you for the review of Captain America: Brave New World this article is spot on.
Am a huge fun of marvel Movies and am looking forward to hopefully in the new future to see a fight between Thaddeus Ross(love this guy great actor) and Bruce Banner.
Hi Ravin,
Thank you for your kind words! I’m glad you enjoyed the review and appreciate the history of Captain America. Sam Wilson definitely has big boots to fill, but I think his journey in the comics and the MCU makes him a great successor to Steve Rogers.
A fight between Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross and Bruce Banner would be an incredible showdown! With Ross now in a major leadership role and his comic history as the Red Hulk, there’s definitely potential for some explosive encounters in the future. Let’s hope Marvel delivers on that!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts—what upcoming Marvel movie are you most excited about?
– Scott