20 Feb Captain America: Brave New World | A Geek Life Movie Review

This is a spoiler-free review of Captain America: Brave New World. Overall, this movie was great and I would recommend it whole-heartedly. There is a lot of plot to swallow, so you’re in for a full ride, even if it is a bit shorter than the norm for a Marvel movie.

“You’re not Steve Rogers.”

We finally get to see Anthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson take center stage as the next Captain America in a big way. But it’s his way. And you quickly realize that Sam Wilson is no Steve Rogers as he serves up an action-packed political thriller with nods to the MCU classic movies before the multi-versal, multi-dimensional, multi-world saga. This movie left me feeling nostalgia in the best way possible. Do we miss Steve Rogers? Absolutely. But don’t we love Sam Wilson? Oh, abso-freaking-lutely.

But first, the Falcon and the Winter Soldier

In 2021, Sam Wilson as the Falcon and Bucky Barnes as the Winter soldier team up in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. In this television miniseries, we see both Sam and Bucky struggle in their own ways after Steve Rogers left to be with Agent Peggy Carter in an alternate timeline after the events of Endgame. Sam Wilson is handed the mantle of Captain America and has to figure out how to step into the shoes left by Steve. While having to come to terms with being his own kind of Captain America, a group of anti-patriots wants the world to go back to the way it was during the Blip. This takes Sam and Bucky all over the world to try and stop them from ultimately destroying everything.

Where are we in the MCU Timeline, Again?

Although the Marvel timeline with all its multi-dimensions is often murky, at best, we know that Sam Wilson has officially taken on the role of Captain America and has been saving the day for two years. So as Brave New World opens, we step into a time when Thaddeus Ross has been elected President, Sam Wilson is Captain America, and Joaquin Torres is the Falcon.

What should you watch before seeing Captain America: Brave New World?

There are definitely references to previous movies and television series in this movie. You don’t have to watch anything before you see Captain America: Brave New World; but you may not fully understand some of the dynamics in play if you don’t.

One of the things I love about the Marvel Cinematic Universe is that they are really good at references, easter eggs, and tying up loose ends you thought were forgotten. This movie helps to bring closure from previous events from an older movie.

The links below will take you to the Disney+ show title page where you can watch. I am not an affiliate of Disney+, but this is where I watch most of my favorite shows.

The Incredible Hulk*

This one is key. In order to understand the origin of the villain and Thaddeus Ross, you should definitely give this a watch. Hubs is a huge Hulk fan and wanted me to see this. I wasn’t sure that I would even like it, but I was pleasantly surprised with how much I not only enjoyed this film, but how much I learned.

Hulk and the Agents of S.M.A.S.H.

This one isn’t necessary, but it is a really fun watch. It will also help you understand Thaddeus ‘Thunderbolt’ Ross and his powers a little better.

Captain America: Civil War

I mean, who doesn’t want to see Steve Rogers, Bucky Barnes, and Sam Wilson together in one movie? This will not break your immersion into Captain America: Brave New World; but watching it will show you more of Thaddeus Ross as he continues to undermine the Avengers and divide them. It will also show you the beginning of the fun dynamic between Sam Wilson and Bucky Barnes. It’s a small intro, but still a great watch.

Avengers: Infinity War

What you really need to see is Endgame, but I feel like you can’t watch that without watching this to explain events before the Blip. 

Avengers: Endgame*

Watch this. It will show you the end of the third MCU phase and how we step into a new era of the Avengers and the superheroes that will take up the mantle in the next phase. You will understand how Sam Wilson is given the new responsibility of Captain America, and you will learn what happens to everyone leading up to the events of…

The Falcon and the Winter Soldier*

Now you see Sam Wilson as he struggles to wear the title of Captain America and how he begins to become his own superhero. You will also see a continuation of the dynamic between Sam and Bucky – and this is my favorite. I love those two together and I wish we could have had more of that!

*These movies are necessary to understanding some of the references and origins in Captain America: Brave New World

Now you’re finally caught up!

Captain America: Brave New World | A Geek Life Movie Review

Movie:

• Captain America: Brave New World

Release Date:

• February 14, 2025

Genre:

• American Superhero film | Political Thriller

Based On:

• Marvel Comics

Produced by:

• Marvel Studios | Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Directed by:

• Julius Onah

Cast:

• Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson | Captain America 
• Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres | Falcon
• Harrison Ford as Red Hulk
• Giancarlo Esposito as Sidewinder
• Shira Haas
• Carl Lumbly
• Xosha Roquemore
• Liv Tyler
• Tim Blake Nelson

The Story Opens

We begin the movie as Captain America and the Falcon have been sent to Mexico by Thaddeus Ross, the President of the United States. They have been instructed to stop the illegal sale of and recover classified items that were stolen by the Serpent Society. In true Sam Wilson style, he descends right into the fight, which is a direct opposite to Steve Rogers’ stealth infiltration approach. Although they recover the items, Sidewinder escapes.

Joaquin brings a much different version of the Falcon to the screen, and is excited to be fighting alongside Sam as his sidekick. Sam, however, doesn’t want Joaquin taking on dangerous missions on account of them not having superpowers. This will come up again later on in the movie.

The Plot Thickens

After these events, Thaddeus Ross invites Sam and Falcon to a summit at the White House. Sam accepts, as long as he can bring former super soldier Isaiah Bradley. Once there, Sam meets with the President, who has a special request for him, and then they move on to the summit where all hell breaks loose. 

Long story short, Captain America and Falcon now have to race against the clock to investigate these events and figure out whodunnit and why. Without spoiling any of the details that make up this political thriller, the actual big-bad villain of the movie is introduced and the pieces begin to fall into place.

Red Hulk

And since Marvel spoiled this already, we get to see Thaddeus Ross transform into Red Hulk and rampage, destroying part of the white house. He and Sam fight until they’re both exhausted, at which point Thaddeus goes back to normal and is taken into custody.

Tone and Themes

This movie is mostly light and playfully comedic, with plenty of suspenseful thriller-adjacent tones. At times, it takes on a more serious tone in its honest and candid moments. But overall, this movie takes itself less seriously, while providing that classic feel of the first couple of Captain America movies. 

As far as themes, I would say that we definitely have the common conflict between good versus evil, as well as revenge and even a tinge of war. But I also caught a bit of triumph over adversity as more than one of the characters was faced with their own sense of imposter syndrome. And mortality.

The Characters and the Actors who played them

I have to say right off the bat that I did not dislike any of the characters or how they were portrayed. I’ll highlight the ones who stood out to me here.

Disclaimer: I’m not a professional “reviewer”. But I put reviewers in quotes because I often find the reviews of my favorite movies lacking, reviewers whose backgrounds, interests, or knowledge of the lore are unknown, and my own desire to see and judge a movie for myself. I don’t like to be told what genres I should be tired of, which themes are trendy, or the movies that are deemed acceptable to love. 

Anthony Mackie as Captain America

Anthony Mackie portrayed an amazing Falcon, so it was no surprise to me that he would nail this role. And he does. He brings his own personality into the character, infusing an already beloved superhero with just the right mix of wit, sass, and strength – adding a new layer of depth to Captain America.

Sam Wilson, the character, is only human, where Steve Rogers was a human enhanced with super soldier serum. This is not to say that Steve Rogers didn’t retain his humanity and never needed a serum to be brave. But Sam Wilson’s strength lies in his military training and determination to face his problems head on. Every time. He shows uncertainty as we get halfway through the movie, but he never lets that stop him from doing the right thing. And although he is not always afforded the same, his compassionate nature allows him to always see the person inside of the title. 

The fight scenes were no exception. Anthony Mackie moves like an soldier, but also incorporates the intelligence and foresight of a street fighter. He doesn’t have powers, and this is evident. What he does have is skill and a tactical advantage that comes from much training.

While many movie-goers who claim to be fans will only see his outside appearance – Sam Wilson, definitely has the heart of Captain America.

Danny Ramirez as Falcon

When I look at Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres I just want to protect him at all costs. He brings a fun balance of wit and intelligence to the team and is the perfect choice to take the mantle of the Falcon. He and Sam already have a great working relationship when he is introduced in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. He helps Sam investigate the Flag Smashers, and is a big fan of the Falcon. Needless to say, he has no problems becoming the same superhero that he looked up to for years, and Sam’s guy-in-the-chair.

Harrison Ford as Thaddeus Ross as the Red Hulk

Being the Star Wars fangirl that I am, I know all about Harrison Ford and the way he just steps into a role and makes it his. So when I saw that he was going to join the cast of this movie I squealed with delight. 

Thaddeus Ross is the character we love to hate, and Harrison Ford performs an amazing balancing act between the person Thaddeus was, and the person he wants to be. He slips up and messes up. Hell, he turns into the Red Hulk – but through no fault of his own. Eventually he’ll do the right thing and be the person he wants to be.

Red Hulk. I mean that is the sentence. If you’ve ever seen the animated Hulk series, then you know exactly what I mean when I say that Thunderbolt Ross makes the most obnoxious Hulk that exists in the multi-dimension-versal- world.

I mean, what are we even calling earth anymore??

There is always something about the Hulks that makes me feel sorry for them. Bruce Banner, especially, is so misunderstood that his anger often alienates him from even his friends. Rage is an emotion that, when it reaches its boiling point, turns us into something we ourselves can’t even recognize. For some, the anger is always just bubbling at the surface, and any little thing can set it off. 

Harrison Ford shows us how hard those burdened with the power of the Hulk try to suppress that rage. He knows he will hurt those around him and he doesn’t want to become that person. But once released, taming the beast often proves nearly impossible.

Shira Haas as Ruth Bat-Seraph

When I saw the previews, I wasn’t sure how to feel about Shira Haas. What I mean to say is that I didn’t know enough about her to make a judgment one way or another. As long as she didn’t play an annoying role like Zawe Ashton as Dar-Benn in the Marvels. 

:: sobs incoherently ::

In this movie, Shira Haas plays Ruth Bat-Seraph, but as an ex Black Widow operative-turned-high ranking government official. She plays a no-nonsense, badass fighter with intelligence and pretty good investigative skills, if I do say so, myself. She definitely grabbed my attention when she stepped onto the scene as a tough-as-nails secret service agent for Thaddeus Ross, but also former trained Black Widow. It’s a small change to her character, but nothing that breaks the movie in any way.

Originally, Ruth Bat-Seraph is the alter-ego of a Jewish mutant named Sabra in the comics. She’s supposed to be the equivalent to our very own Captain America in strength. However, following the IRL (in real life) conflict between Israel and Palestine, there has been some controversy surrounding her character. In fact, from her entry into Marvel Comics, Sabra the character has had controversy follow her around.

I enjoyed watching her and I enjoyed her character. Simple as that.

Giancarlo Esposito as Sidewinder

Look, I don’t know much at all about Sidewinder in the comics. And I don’t even fully understand who he is after this movie. But what I do know is Giancarlo. And what I fully understand is how artfully he plays the bad guy – seducing you to thoughts of the dark side with his smooth wickedness and brazen villainy. 

When Giancarlo’s Sidewinder enters the movie, the tone immediately changes to a darker, more sinister one. You can feel his dark desire to kill and his anger when he is interrupted by Sam. This desire to kill is then focused fully on Captain America and his need to eradicate him at all costs. 

I don’t know if Giancarlo ever gets tired of playing the villain. But damn, if he isn’t the best at what he does. From Star Wars, to drug wars, to video games, and now Marvel – I always know I will enjoy whatever role he plays!

I found this article that explains Sidewinder and his comic origins as well as how he could play a role in future MCU projects. It contains spoilers so be warned.

Xosha Roquemore as Leila Taylor

Although she isn’t classified as one of the lead roles in this film, Xosha Roquemore as Leila Taylor is my choice for standout actor of this film. Leila Taylor is President Ross’ Secret Service Agent and Sam Wilson’s contact in the white house. In the comics, she is actually a romantic interest to Sam Wilson, and I’m not going to lie – I kind of hope they go that route.

Admittedly, Leila Taylor’s character isn’t particularly deep, and her performance isn’t the kind of riveting that would have Xosha nominated for a real standout actor award. However, her presence in this movie provides a strength and stability that I want to see more of in these kinds of roles. 

As well as being a secret service agent to the President, Leila also acts much as an Executive Assistant to a CEO. I would know. And the cool, calm confidence by which she interacts in direct opposition to Thaddeus Ross’ more fiery personality is not a hindrance to their working relationship in any way. He trusts her, fully, and she supports him. But she isn’t afraid of him, and that’s the key.

Direction and Cinematography

I wouldn’t say that this movie took any major creative risks, per say. However, it can be said that the very obvious way we stepped back in time to a more classic superhero movie was the creative choice. It felt so wonderful to not be confused for half the movie because I’m not sure where we are in the timeline and which version of a particular character we’re seeing. The multiverse is exhausting, and this movie was a refreshing change of pace.

And with that being said, the pace was a bit fast. As much as I enjoyed this movie, the pacing, at times, felt like I was on an old wooden roller coaster ride. One minute I’m being jerked to the right, the next I’m being flung to the left. But it wasn’t in such a way as to lose the story or keep me lost from the plot. In fact, although there were a couple of times when I had to blink to think through how we ended up at a certain destination, I wasn’t lost at any time during the movie. At least not enough to ruin the movie for me.

It is definitely fast-paced, vividly colorful, with a focus on the characters’ actions and facial expressions.

Script and Dialogue

What is a superhero movie without the one-liners and sometimes cheesy quips. No, seriously – how can we keep wanting to go back to the classics, if we aren’t willing to accept the cheesiness that often comes with those classics. Why do I bring this up? Well because this movie has quite a bit of one-liners with a slice of cheese here and there.

The banter between Sam and Joaquin is *chef’s kiss*. As well as the banter between Sam and Isaiah, and then Isaiah and Joaquin. It gives us an idea of their relationship and helps them seem more human.

The dialogue between Thaddeus and Leila is also written well – with only a slight chance of humor among the seriousness of the situation. It’s real and believable.

As far as the writing and script go: I would give it a solid B. Only because while it was good, it wasn’t the best story I’ve ever seen.

Arcane. Hands down.

Special Effects and Visuals

I am a sucker for super hero landings. A s-u-c-k-e-r. It all started with Kate Beckinsale as Selene in Underworld. Seriously, did you see that perfect landing in the opening scene? It was epic and beautiful and absolute perfection.

So when Anthony Mackie did his superhero landing at the beginning of the movie with his signature wings? Well, I was done. Falcon and Captain America flying through the air did not feel fake in any way, either. So I think I would categorize these under visuals.

As for the special effects – aka CGI – well I wasn’t disappointed. At all. Take this with a grain of salt, though, because I have to constantly ask hubs “is this CG? What about this? And this?” Either way, Harrison Ford as Red Hulk – even the existence of a Red Hulk in the White House – looked like it was completely believable. Often, special effects in movies are focused on an over extravagant display of explosions and movement that lose the plot. But the CGI in this movie went right along with the plot and helped to further tell the story, rather than detract from it.

Music and Sound

Siiiigh…

I feel like maybe Laura Karpman was trying to “make a name for herself” with this soundtrack by introducing some new sounds to the MCU. But if I’m being honest, this soundtrack was just bad. I’m sorry. There was no connection to the characters named in the tracks or the events of the movie. Overall, the whole album felt disjointed, repetitive, and uninspired. I think it was creative, but not in a good way. 

Wow, I’ve never given a soundtrack such negative reviews, but I’m just being honest!

It was just hard to get through the album. I was constantly distracted by how bad this music made me feel. If you could get a seizure from music, I think the blinking lights syndrome that is track six would have given me one. And then the song for Sidewinder (track ten) felt like a visit to Arkham Asylum. In a straightjacket. By the time I got to track 23, I was ready to murder someone. But the song for Red Hulk’s transformation was the straw that broke my headphones. I had to go lay down.

I’m almost angry at what seems like an intentional musical attack on this movie. I can honestly say I did not love this soundtrack. At all. And while I typically inhale soundtracks on repeat like they’re going out of style, I won’t be returning to this one.

Please, next time, get somebody else to do it.

You may feel differently, and that’s okay. I have included the official original score and unofficial movie soundtracks on the sidebar. Click to listen on Spotify while you read the rest of my review, and then tell me what you think in the comments, below.

Pacing and Length

The average runtime of a Marvel movie is 2 hours and 15 minutes (135 minutes). The longest is Avengers: Endgame at 3 hours and 1 minute (181 minutes); and the shortest is The Marvels at 1 hour and 45 minutes (105 minutes). While it isn’t the shortest, and even just minutes longer than the first Thor movie (115 minutes), Captain America: Brave New World is one of the shorter Marvel movies at 1 hour and 58 minutes (118 minutes).

What does this mean? Nothing, really; and I don’t think it really matters if the writers and director can tell the story in the time allotted. 

Sam Wilson deserved a longer movie

Honestly, in my opinion, we should have had a longer movie. First and foremost is the fact that this is Anthony Mackie’s first solo film as Captain America – I almost feel robbed of the opportunity to see more of him. Practically speaking, of course, is the money. I can’t imagine how expensive that Red Hulk CGI and fight scene were. I mean, we didn’t even get to see the full transformation from Ross to Hulk and back again. So that probably had something to do with it.

Most importantly, though, is the fact that the story did feel a bit rushed despite it being chock-full of action, banter, and background. I love when a writer takes me on a journey and helps me understand the why and how of where we end up. When a movie jumps from scene to scene like rapid fire, it feels exhausting and disjointed. I can’t say that this film felt disjointed, but it definitely could have used more time to simmer and get us from background to plot to conflict to resolution, while giving us the character development that makes us understand how that character ticks. Something felt like it was missing, even though it kept my attention from beginning to end; and even though I got the full story in the end.

Maybe I’m just greedy and I wanted more Anthony, Danny, Harrison, Giancarlo, and Xosha!

So what did I think about Captain America: Brave New World?

I enjoyed this movie. I mean, I really enjoyed it. Like I said earlier, I would give it a solid B. I think the actors nailed it – especially Anthony Mackie as Captain America. I’m so glad we didn’t include another-another dimension or one of the many multiverses. And I’m so glad we didn’t have cameos just for cameo sake that felt out of place or like fan-service. 

Do look forward to one, though!

Overall, I love how this movie felt nostalgic and new all at the same time. I really enjoyed seeing Sam Wilson take on the mantle of Captain America, and how he handled his imposter syndrome while fighting for justice. I adored the relationship between him and Joaquin; and I also very much enjoyed the growth in Wilson’s and Ross’ relationship.

Who should watch Captain America: Brave New World

I would recommend this movie to fans like me. When Marvel or DC introduces new characters and puts out new movies, I’m going to go see it. If I don’t know the character, I’ll learn about them. I’ll get to see how the overall story comes together. I will find something to love about it, even if there’s something I don’t love. Because I’m a fan. I don’t get tired of superhero films, and I don’t hate Marvel when they release something I’m not fond of. Because I’m a fan. And I don’t hate on actors because of a part they were given to portray. Because I’m a reasonable person. And also a fan.

So to those fans like me – you will appreciate and maybe even love this movie as much as I did.

We’re in a new phase of Marvel storytelling, and that’s okay. We live in a society where public perception can hinge on something as simple as appearance. When it comes to Marvel and this new phase, “I have to admit, I’m still getting used to the new look.” But I like it, and I’m coming along for the ride.

In Conclusion

I want to be very frank as I close this review. There are some who want to make Captain America ‘great’ again and bring back Steve Rogers. But I say that Sam Wilson’s Captain America is a new kind of great for a new time. Every comic book reader and collector (not in denial) knows that superheroes have sidekicks. We also know that eventually the mantle will be passed on to them. Superheroes don’t live forever, so let’s just get over it already and enjoy these movies for what they are. Right now in the present. We loved Steve Rogers and he will always be our first Captain America. But it’s just as Joaquin said to Sam in a heart-warming scene between them:

“Steve gave people something to believe in. And you give them something to aspire to.”