“You’re not Steve Rogers!” This line keeps echoing in Sam Wilson’s (played by Anthony Mackie) mind—or at least it should in the latest Marvel comic book movie. If you recall past events, Wilson—this agile, flying superhero once known as “Falcon”—has taken over the mantle of Captain America from the original Captain America, Rogers. Captain America: Brave New World should naturally tell the story of how Wilson takes on the responsibility of protecting and serving the country. However, this latest entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is as underwhelming as a wet tea bag.
Directed by Julius Onah (who previously directed Luce and The Cloverfield Paradox), Brave New World was burdened with heavy baggage upon its release. It underwent multiple delays and extensive reshoots, including the addition of a mercenary-style character played by Giancarlo Esposito (from Breaking Bad). Released with audience expectations, the likable Mackie wields the star-spangled shield once held by Chris Evans in his first Marvel Cinematic Universe standalone film. Unfortunately, this thin film lacks sufficient structure to showcase his capabilities.
Brave New World aims to be a paranoid and tense political thriller similar to 2014’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier. The film reintroduces the character Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross. The former general who once hunted the Hulk, previously played by the late William Hurt, has now become the President of the United States. Ross (played by Harrison Ford) has shaved off his beard (reportedly told “either shave or lose the election”) and is trying to turn over a new leaf, including reconciling with his estranged daughter Betty.
On the political stage, Ross hopes to reach an agreement with other countries called the “New Atlantis Treaty,” using a rare and precious metal called Adamantium to solidify this agreement. Adamantium is the material used in the claws of the X-Men’s Wolverine, and its rarity and value make it a focal point of international competition. However, a terrorist attack occurs at the White House, involving several gunmen, including Wilson’s friend, veteran Isaiah Bradley (played by Carl Lumbly). Wilson firmly believes that Bradley is innocent, especially considering he barely remembers shooting at the president, which makes the entire incident more confusing.
With the addition of Joaquín Torres (played by Danny Ramirez)—the new Falcon—Wilson’s Captain America launches an investigation. Up to this point, everything is going smoothly. However, Brave New World never truly takes off. Esposito’s portrayal of Diamondback is menacing, but the character contributes little to advancing the plot. Similarly, Harrison Ford—this screen icon from Star Wars and Indiana Jones making his first foray into the Marvel Universe—fails to make a breakthrough. His character’s “big transformation” was revealed in the trailer, so no spoilers here. It is undoubtedly a highlight of the film but not given the attention it deserves.
From the opening church shootout, the cinematography in Brave New World appears muddled, lacking the dazzling visual flair of the best Marvel Cinematic Universe films. Tim Blake Nelson at least delivers a passable performance as the evil mastermind Samuel Sterns—though he looks like he has a piece of broccoli stuck on his head—and there are some decent cameos. However, the film as a whole feels overly functional, lacking standout moments. A few fight scenes inject some energy into the plot, especially the one on a road shaded by cherry blossoms. But overall, the film is lackluster and disappointing.