‘Captain America: Brave New World’ premieres in German theaters on February 13, 2025, as the 35th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Transitioning from Chris Evans to Anthony Mackie as the new Captain America, the film builds on previous narratives, including ‘The Incredible Hulk’ and ‘The Falcon and The Winter Soldier.’ Essential viewing includes earlier Captain America films and ‘Black Widow,’ which features key characters relevant to the storyline. This release is part of an exciting year for MCU fans.
The highly anticipated film ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ marks the 35th installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and hits German theaters today, February 13, 2025. As the fourth entry in the ‘Captain America’ franchise, viewers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with previous storylines before diving into this latest adventure.
While Chris Evans portrayed the iconic hero in the initial three films, Anthony Mackie steps into the role of Captain America in this installment. Following the events of ‘Avengers: Endgame’, where Steve Rogers (Evans) retired his shield, Sam Wilson (Mackie) took up the mantle as the new Captain America in the series ‘The Falcon and The Winter Soldier’.
The MCU has evolved significantly in recent years, and those who haven’t caught up on all the films and Disney+ series may find themselves at a disadvantage. Fear not, as we will guide you through the essential films and series to watch in order to fully appreciate ‘Captain America: Brave New World’!
Rediscovering ‘The Incredible Hulk’ (2008)
Often overlooked, ‘The Incredible Hulk’ from 2008 features Edward Norton as Bruce Banner, but since his replacement by Mark Ruffalo in ‘Marvel’s The Avengers’ (2012), many fans have forgotten about this pivotal film. However, it is becoming increasingly relevant to the overarching MCU narrative.
The character Thaddeus ‘Thunderbolt’ Ross, played by William Hurt until his passing in 2022, reemerges in ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ in a significant role portrayed by Harrison Ford. The film also sees the return of key characters from ‘The Incredible Hulk’, including Liv Tyler as Betty Ross and Tim Blake Nelson as Samuel Sterns.
Sterns, a scientist assisting Bruce Banner in finding a Hulk cure, becomes intrigued by the Hulk’s power. By the end of ‘The Incredible Hulk’, he comes into contact with Banner’s blood, laying the groundwork for his transformation into the supervillain known as The Leader in the comics.
Essential Viewing: ‘The Return of the First Avenger’ (2014)
As ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ is the fourth film in the series, it’s crucial to watch earlier entries. While the first ‘Captain America’ film doesn’t feature the current Captain America, Sam Wilson, the second installment is a must-see.
In ‘The Return of the First Avenger’, audiences are introduced to Sam Wilson, who becomes a close ally of Captain America. As Falcon, he stands beside Cap in the battle against Hydra, and the film delves into Sam’s background as a U.S. Army veteran.
Key Moments in ‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016)
In ‘Captain America: Civil War’, tensions rise as Sam Wilson must choose sides amid a conflict between Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.) and Steve Rogers. This film showcases Sam’s loyalty to Steve and his growing bond with Bucky (Sebastian Stan), as they unite against Iron Man.
‘Civil War’ is vital for understanding Sam Wilson’s evolution within the Avengers and his initial interactions with Thunderbolt Ross, reinforcing his commitment to Steve and the cause.
The Journey in ‘The Falcon and The Winter Soldier’ (2021)
Following the events of ‘Avengers: Endgame’, Steve Rogers has retired, passing the shield to Sam Wilson, who faces challenges in stepping into this new role. Supported by Bucky, Sam learns to embrace his destiny as the next Captain America.
The Disney+ series ‘The Falcon and The Winter Soldier’ chronicles Sam’s transformation from Falcon to Captain America, serving as a crucial prequel to ‘Captain America: Brave New World’.
Throughout the series, Sam also meets Joaquin Torres (Danny Ramirez), a U.S. Air Force lieutenant, who becomes the new Falcon with Sam’s guidance.
Significance of ‘Black Widow’ (2021)
Though Scarlett Johansson’s Black Widow won’t appear in ‘Captain America: Brave New World’, watching ‘Black Widow’ is still worthwhile. It features William Hurt’s final performance as Thunderbolt Ross before Harrison Ford takes over the role.
Additionally, the Russian secret organization from ‘Black Widow’ plays a pivotal role in ‘Captain America 4’. Ruth Bat-Seraph (Shira Haas), who has ties to the Black Widow program, is expected to be a key ally to President Ross and a formidable opponent for Sam Wilson’s Captain America.
Mark your calendars for February 13, 2025, as ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ premieres in German cinemas. This film is just one of several exciting MCU releases this year, so stay tuned for our comprehensive list of Marvel’s upcoming titles!