The latest Marvel Cinematic Universe film has arrived with Captain America: Brave New World. When newly elected President Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford), looks to stop a stolen object from being sold to nefarious parties. Captain America (Anthony Mackie) is sent in to stop the sale and exchange and does so with the help of Joaquin Torres (Danny Ramirez), who aspires to become the new Falcon.
Despite their past issues, Ross invites Sam to the White House and tells him that he sees the world differently now. He wants the new Captain America to reform the Avengers and have them ready to serve once again.
As Sam mulls over the offer, a shocking attack takes place. While ordered to stand down due to a possible personal connection, Sam and Joaquin set off to investigate, soon uncovering a global threat with dangerous individuals in play and a mysterious force lurking behind the scenes.
With a rapidly escalating global crisis, Sam and Joaquin must save the day despite potential enemies at every turn.
The movie has a solid amount of action yet remains, at its core, a political thriller and mystery, as much of the film focuses on discovering who is behind the developing crisis. Mackie does a great job carrying the action and proves he is more than capable of leading rather than being part of an ensemble. His character’s development, particularly his doubts about his worth to carry the shield and his refusal to take the Super Serum, adds a relatable dimension.
Ford does solid work as Ross, portraying the character as a gruff and complicated man, struggling between confident, firm leadership and emotional outbursts while frequently lamenting his lack of a relationship with his daughter. His take on the role after the loss of William Hurt is compelling.
The movie effectively establishes current events, incorporating elements from past films. It also delivers a very intriguing end-credit scene that will surely get fans talking about its implications.
Despite reports of numerous reshoots, changes to the ending, and an inflated budget, the final product is a solid and enjoyable film that Marvel fans should embrace. The action and visuals deliver, but at its core, this is a story about people with relatable concerns and motivations.
The film moves slowly in some areas as the plot is established, but the action is effective when it arrives, delivering what fans expect. Combined with strong performances from the cast, Captain America: Brave New World stands out as one of the better recent Marvel films and helps establish a new path for the franchise.
3.5 stars out of 5.
