Film

Captain America: Brave New World

Immersive Experience

By Rimsha Kamran | April 2025

The film “Captain America: Brave New World” carries the weight of a legacy and the promise of a fresh direction for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Under the direction of Julius Onah, who garnered attention with his directorial debut “The Girl Is in Trouble” and later with the tense sci-fi thriller “The Cloverfield Paradox,” brings a distinct perspective to the MCU. As he is known for his work demonstrating a keen eye for character-driven narratives, this film also explores the complexities of a world grappling with a new Captain America.

Onah’s direction provides a grounded approach, balancing the grand spectacle expected of a Marvel film with moments of genuine human vulnerability. He creates a sense of political intrigue and global stakes, shifting the focus from cosmic threats to more equally dangerous conflicts. The film, distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, benefits from the high production values typical of the MCU, ensuring a visually immersive experience.

At the heart of “Brave New World” is Anthony Mackie, who seamlessly transitions into the role of Captain America. Mackie’s previous roles, notably as Falcon in numerous MCU films and projects like “The Banker,” have demonstrated his versatility and ability to portray complex characters. He delivers a performance that embodies the strength and humanity of Sam Wilson, showcasing his struggle to reconcile the weight of the shield with his convictions. The film also brings in Harrison Ford as Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, a casting choice that adds significant complexity to the political landscape of the MCU. Ford’s extensive filmography needs little introduction, with iconic roles in franchises like “Indiana Jones” and “Star Wars” and more recent work in films like “The Call of the Wild,” solidifying his legendary status. Ford’s portrayal hints at the character’s motivations while maintaining an air of ambiguity.

The story follows Sam Wilson, now officially Captain America, as he navigates a world where the lines between hero and politician blur. He finds himself in a global conspiracy involving Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, now President, and his attempts to consolidate power. The film explores the challenges of maintaining peace and stability in a world fractured by competing ideologies and the lingering effects of past conflicts, forcing Sam to confront difficult choices about the nature of leadership and the cost of freedom.

The film’s narrative delves into the political ramifications of a world without a clear, unifying figure, exploring themes of power, accountability, and the ever-shifting lines between allies and adversaries. The script attempts to weave together threads from previous MCU instalments, creating a sense of continuity while setting the stage for future narratives. The film has grossed approximately $389 million domestically and has also passed some other MCU movies.

“Captain America: Brave New World” represents a significant step forward for the MCU. It expands the universe’s political landscape, introduces compelling new characters, and allows Anthony Mackie to shine as Captain America. It provides a solid foundation for the future of the franchise