We we should stop comparing Marvel films

A Captain America: Brave New World Review 

The fourth Captain America movie, starring Anthony Mackie, Harrison Ford, and Danny Ramirez was released on February 14. The film took hold of the box office, gathering over $88 million during its opening weekend. 

Captain America: Brave New World continues the tale of Sam Wilson as he carries on the legacy of Steve Rogers. The film picks up where The Falcon and the Winter Soldier left off. In addition, it adds elements from The Incredible Hulk (2008) and Eternals. For those who have not seen any of these, all you should know is that Thaddeus Ross–the infamous Hulk hunter from Hulk (2008) and initiator of the Sokovia Accords in Captain America: Civil War–has become president of the United States and is trying to unite the world around the celestial mass from Eternals. Meanwhile, Samuel Sterns–also introduced in Hulk–seeks to sabotage Ross’s reputation and hold on the country. Meanwhile Wilson, and his hilarious sidekick Jaoquin Torres, takes the world by storm. Having established himself as Captain America in his television series, Sam continues to tighten his grip on the title, proving to the world that he is Captain America. 

While this fourth installment of the Captain America saga has come under criticism, it is a genuinely thrilling movie. The actors–especially Mackie and Ford–carry the film with impeccable comedic timing, decent dialogue, and overall talent. Additionally, the plot of the film is ultimately entertaining. The twists and turns, though slightly predictable for long-term Marvel fans, are enjoyable. The choreography is similar to that of The Winter Soldier, making for an action-packed film. Surprising cameos make the movie exciting and compel the audience to keep watching. 

However, Marvel fans have disputed this film heavily and lines have been drawn. Some claim that it was entertaining and a fun experience while others completely despise it. Most agree that the action scenes are great, but there have been many reshoots, some excessively obvious, and the CGI isn’t always the best. So is this movie really worth watching? I would say that it is. The film is solid, taking on political themes as well as ideas that will shape the future of the MCU. While this is not the most riveting and ground-breaking film, it is overall enjoyable. 

But herein lies the problem. Marvel fans have long been biased against new MCU projects. This is why viewers must ensure that they are going in with an open mind, not ready to compare it to past Marvel films. As mentioned, this is not the most awe-inspiring movie of the saga, but it is entertaining. If viewers would stop comparing Captain America 4 and some of the other post-Endgame films to Infinity War and Endgame, they might see a piece of drama that is fun and worth viewing. 

Overall, Captain America: Brave New World brings an enjoyable element back to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and allows the unbiased viewer to enjoy the MCU, just like the old days. 

Critic’s Score: 7.5/10

By: Adelle Hall