Captain America: Brave New World Premieres Amid MCU Shifts

Captain America: Brave New World marks the fourth installment in the Captain America film series, introducing Sam Wilson, previously known as The Falcon, as the new titular hero. As the 35th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it ties heavily into previous MCU films and Disney+ shows, requiring viewers to have a good understanding of the franchise's history, including references back to 2008's The Incredible Hulk. Critics have expressed varying opinions, with some labeling the film as having one of the MCU's clunkiest scripts, while others highlight its connections to significant past plotlines and characters. Notably, the film revisits the character of General Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross and the villainous Sam Sterns, linking to longstanding narratives within the MCU. Additionally, the film aims for a more grounded tone compared to its cosmic predecessors, which is seen as a shift in focus for the franchise. As anticipation builds, many are encouraged to revisit earlier MCU entries to fully appreciate the film's context and connections.