Marvel Studios kicked off its 2025 film slate with Captain America: Brave New World, a sequel that, unfortunately, leaves much to be desired. While Anthony Mackie shines as the new Captain America, the film presents several perplexing plot points and underdeveloped characters, leaving viewers with more questions than answers. Our biggest WTF moments? Let's dive in.
Captain America: Brave New World Gallery
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Where Was Banner This Whole Time?
Seventeen years later, Marvel finally delivered a sequel to The Incredible Hulk, cleverly weaving in loose ends from the original. We see the aftermath of Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns' gamma exposure, Harrison Ford's Thaddeus Ross facing consequences, and Liv Tyler's return as Betty Ross. Yet, a crucial element is missing: the Hulk himself. Mark Ruffalo's Bruce Banner's absence in a story directly stemming from The Incredible Hulk is baffling. Surely, Banner would react to his nemesis becoming President, to his friend's transformation, and to the Hulk smashing the White House! Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings established Banner's global watch with Captain Marvel; She-Hulk showed his ongoing research and fatherhood. His complete absence is a significant plot hole, likely explained away as an off-world trip with Skaar, but it doesn't diminish the impact of his absence. The film emphasizes the need for a new Avengers team, yet only features a brief Bucky cameo. Including Banner would have strengthened the narrative.
Why Does The Leader Think So Small?
Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns, now a gamma-irradiated super-genius, returns with a grudge against President Ross. However, his tactical brilliance is questionable. He orchestrates a war but doesn't account for Captain America's intervention. His surrender to carry out his "masterstroke"—playing a recording—is illogical. He could have remained at large to hatch further schemes. The Leader's portrayal lacks the ambition of his comic book counterpart, whose motivations extend beyond a personal vendetta against Ross. His calculated multiverse collapse should overshadow his petty revenge.
Why Is Red Hulk So Much Like Green Hulk?
President Ross's transformation into Red Hulk mirrors the Hulk's mindless rage, lacking the intelligence and tactical prowess of his comic book counterpart. While the irony of Ross becoming what he hated is appreciated, the missed opportunity to portray a different Hulk archetype—a battle-hardened soldier—is disappointing.
Why Did Those Blades Hurt Red Hulk but Not Bullets?
Red Hulk's invulnerability to bullets contrasts with his vulnerability to Captain America's vibranium blades. This inconsistency is likely explained by vibranium's unique properties, allowing it to pierce Red Hulk's defenses unlike conventional weapons.
Why Is Bucky a Politician Now?
Bucky Barnes' unexpected political aspirations are unexplained. His past actions seem incompatible with a political career. While the cameo acknowledges his bond with Sam, his transformation into a politician feels jarring and requires further explanation in future installments.
Why Does Sidewinder Want to Kill Cap So Badly?
Sidewinder's intense personal vendetta against Captain America lacks explanation. While his motivations might have been clearer in earlier script versions, the film leaves this a significant unresolved issue, possibly to be addressed in future projects.
What Was the Point of Sabra, Exactly?
Ruth Bat-Seraph's inclusion feels unnecessary. She serves as a minor obstacle before becoming an ally, lacking a significant impact on the narrative. Adapting the Sabra character from the comics seems arbitrary, given her significant alterations in the MCU.
What’s the Deal With Adamantium Now?
Adamantium's introduction serves primarily as a plot device, its long-term implications unclear. While its connection to Wolverine is evident, its broader impact on the MCU remains uncertain.
Why Are We No Closer to the Avengers?
The film's focus on introducing new characters overshadows the need for a cohesive Avengers team. Despite the film's mention of reforming the Avengers, concrete steps towards this goal are absent, leaving the team's future uncertain. The climax could have benefited from more Avengers involvement.
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