Captain America: Brave New World review - The story may lack surprise, but Sam Wilson can definitely fight 'all day'!

Although the Red Hulk and The Leader were introduced into the MCU, it was Sam Wilson's sincerity and ability to take a punch that made Captain America: Brave New World, an otherwise clichéd movie, watchable.

Maybe Marvel peaked and set a high standard for itself in Phase Four, because why is it that no matter how many new movies Marvel decides to release, we always go back and compare it to the glorious phase when Avengers were saving the day? Ever since Steve gave up the shield to live the life he always wanted, he also handed over the responsibility (read pressure) to be a superhero with an incredible legacy on Sam Wilson. Looks like this fact is not hidden from Anthony Mackie’s Cap and he makes sure we know that throughout Captain America: Brave New World.

Directed by Julius Onah and written by Rob Edwards, Malcolm Spellman and Dalan Musson, the latest version of Captain is good and a bit overdone at the same time. Sam, having taken on the role of the Patriot, finds himself in the middle of an international incident following his meeting with President Thaddeus Ross. As a superhero without any real superpowers, he finds himself in a pickle when he must identify the true mastermind behind a recent attack and prove his friend's innocence in the process.

Also Read: Who is Red Hulk? Everything you need to know about this new Marvel addition

The plot and the way the story moves forward is not something exceptional. It’s what we have seen the MCU do before. Wilson going on an investigative venture while trying to prove his worth to others, but mostly to himself basically sums it up. What the movie successfully manages to deliver is to give Sam’s Cap his well-deserved moment. It just shows that the makers were aware of the doubts people have been having in someone to take on the almost divine shield and face threats that are anything but human. 

It was well established in Marvel's television series Captain America and The Winter Soldier how Wilson is different from Steve in all aspects. In addition to his own lived experiences and how others perceive him, his challenges extend beyond simply dealing with an alien invasion. In the film, he continues to embrace the idea of working with the government despite their past transgressions, particularly regarding the Sokovia Accords. He sees his role as one that can restore hope among the people, believing that, as he puts it, "Standing next to the President gives people hope." Anthony does an exceptional job translating everything Sam stands for. He is persistent, hopeful, caring and quick-witted at times.

Harrison Ford portrays Thaddeus Ross, the Captain of the ship, who embodies fierce strength and resilience as the President of the country. His character is driven by a desire for power and seeking to control the new element, Adamantium. Yes, we finally, get to witness the almost forgotten "Celestial Mass" from Eternals. However, his complicated past and his fatherly desire to reconnect with his daughter, Betty, make this film feel more like a sequel to The Incredible Hulk. Although we can get a spellbinding sequence of Red Hulk, it comes to an end before we can enjoy it. Honestly, he is more menacing as Ross than as The Red Hulk. 

Danny Ramirez’s Joaquin Torres is thrilled to be fighting alongside Sam once again. Taking on Sam’s alter ego as the new Falcon, he becomes the fun and energetic addition to the cast. His banter with Sam reminds us of the one between Wilson and Buck, where both are constantly pulling each other’s legs. You can see his excitement of being part of the superhero team as he takes on the bad guys while soaring in the skies. Seth Voelker (Giancarlo Esposito), also known as Sidewinder appears to be just another runaway thug armed with weapons, on a mission to kill Sam Wilson and others like him for reasons that remain unclear. Tim Blake Nelson who revives his role as Samuel Sterns seeks revenge on Ross for keeping him imprisoned and reminds you a bit of Zemo (another Captain America villain). Despite being someone who can control minds, it's a bummer to see him surrender, only to appear in the post-credits to warn Sam and set us up for the next Big Bad of the MCU.

People who were hoping to see a discussion of real-world issues may be disappointed. Aside from an Indian Prime Minister who closely resembles our own, the portrayal of America’s desire to work with us feels familiar and predictable. However, the narrative avoids addressing any politically sensitive topics. The only truly standout moment in the entire film comes from a surprising cameo by everyone's favorite anti-hero, which leads to an emotionally charged sequence where he acts as a counselor for his former arch-nemesis turned best friend. It's heartwarming to witness their growth into this supportive relationship. 

Unfortunately, just like the plot, the dialogues weren't great either. Every few stand out, and not because of how well it is written, but because they give us an understanding of the characters’ choices. I guess, in that way, they do the job. What lacks in dialogue and surprise elements, is made up by the fight scenes. The fight sequences are impressive, especially considering that Wilson is just a regular human trying to keep up with goons who may or may not be enhanced. Sam can certainly throw some punches, and even though it looks painful, he seems capable of "going all day." 

The potential was certainly there, but despite all the hype surrounding the characters and the efforts to establish Sam as the new Captain, the creators overlooked the need for a fresh storyline. Instead, they handed the familiar plot to the fans in an almost new package.

Captain America: Brave New World is running in theatres near you.