Marvel Studios recently released a fourth installment of the Captain America series on Valentine’s Day titled, “Captain America: Brave New World.” The two-hour sequel was particularly noteworthy, as it was Anthony Mackie’s movie debut as the titular Captain America. Despite drawing attention from both the media and fans alike, the reception was mostly negative, failing to continue the success of its predecessors.
The Captain America movie franchise first began in 2011, titled “Captain America: The First Avenger,” with Chris Evans appearing as the titular character. The series then went on to release two successive films in 2014 and 2016 respectively. These movies were received fairly well and only heightened Marvel’s growing popularity. The fourth movie was then announced following the introduction of the new Captain America in “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.”
From the outset of “Captain America: Brave New World,” the audience gets an early glimpse at the new Captain America’s lack of capability.
“Superhero movies tend to have a not-too-overpowered protagonist,” Lambert senior Aditya Harish said. “This is usually for the better, but in Sam’s case, he’s a little too helpless.”
This impotency is particularly evident when trivial villains get the better of Sam Wilson (Captain America) in situations with little to no stakes involved. While studios generally avoid glaring power dynamics by humanizing protagonists, Wilson’s vulnerability evokes a sense of helplessness consistently throughout the film, something uncharacteristic of Captain America. The audience’s growing sense of unease develops into frustration when Wilson ultimately loses in the final fight, deferring to the help of others due to his ineptitude.
On a more positive note, the film received praise for its diverse selection of cast, particularly for its inclusion of actors of Hispanic background. Members of such included Giancarlo Esposito, Danny Ramirez and Rosa Salazar.
“This movie was by far one of the most diverse Marvel movies I’ve seen,” Harish said. “It’s nice to see some representation culturally.”
“Captain America: Brave New World” is reminiscent of Disney’s broader efforts toward diversity and inclusion in its mediums. Following its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) campaign in 2016, Disney has taken part in many initiatives and collaborated with advocacy groups similar to many of its corporate counterparts. This diversity allows many more to resonate with those on the big screen, thus growing Marvel’s appeal as well.
Overall, “Captain America: Brave New World” is a lackluster movie. It ultimately fails to provide a fun and exciting viewing experience, something the series was previously marked by. With the new phase of the Marvel Cinematic Universe already off to a shaky start, and fans disillusioned, it is unclear whether Marvel Studios will be able to continue its past success and live up to expectations.
