Despite the anticipation surrounding upcoming films like Fantastic Four, this instalment feels more like a reluctant effort to keep the MCU moving forward than an attempt to reignite the excitement that once defined it. The film’s flaws are clear, with multiple rewrites evident in its awkward pacing and forced moments, particularly when it pauses to explain plot points for viewers who may not be up to date with recent TV shows. These interruptions disrupt the flow, making the film feel like it's ticking off boxes rather than fully exploring its characters.
However, in the broader context of the MCU, the film does manage to address some lingering storylines, tie up loose ends, and set the stage for future films. It effectively concludes the underwhelming arcs that followed Endgame, making it easier for the next phase to find its stride.
Brave New World lays a solid foundation for future films but lacks the spark that once defined the MCU
The film tackles two key questions: Can Anthony Mackie fill Chris Evans' shoes as Captain America, and how will Harrison Ford’s Red Hulk fit into the MCU? While facing challenges, Brave New World largely avoids the missteps of recent Marvel releases. Mackie’s portrayal of Cap shines through his sincerity and integrity, with his tech-enhanced suit giving him the physical edge to step into Evans' role, though his sudden skillset sometimes feels exaggerated. His final confrontation with Red Hulk highlights his strength not through power, but leadership and character. Joaquin Torres' line, "You’re someone they aspire to be," perfectly captures Mackie’s Cap as a leader worthy of the shield (despite being an exposition character, Torres remains a perfect addition to the film).
In contrast, Red Hulk’s storyline fails to deliver on the chaos his character initially promised. Despite teasing potential epic showdowns (I’ll always geek out at the thought of a Red Hulk vs. Green Hulk clash), his arc feels underdeveloped, and comes to an end far too swiftly.
One of the film’s standout features is its effort to address long-neglected threads in the MCU, particularly through a forced nod to The Incredible Hulk (2008) and the return of familiar characters. The film also revisits the celestial corpse in the Indian Ocean, introduced in Eternals, which had been largely ignored until now. This reference, along with the mysterious metal inside, not only ties up that loose end but also teases future crossovers—especially with the X-Men—hinting at the MCU's growing interconnectedness.
Ultimately, Brave New World lays a solid foundation for future films but lacks the spark that once defined the MCU. Bearing the burden of wrapping up the failed arcs from the TV shows and films post-Endgame, it paves the way for the next phase to find its stride and hopefully reignite the excitement that made the franchise unforgettable.