The latest installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is Captain America: Brave New World, which promises a fresh start for Steve Rogers’ mantle but instead delivers a messy and uninspired film. The movie takes place several years after the events of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier TV series and follows Sam Wilson as he becomes the new Captain America.
The plot revolves around a conspiracy-based storyline that brings together loose ends from previous Marvel projects, including the Eternals and the Incredible Hulk. However, instead of tying everything together in a satisfying way, the film’s writers struggle to create a coherent narrative.
Anthony Mackie, who plays Sam Wilson, is likable but struggles to bring depth to his character. The movie’s attempts at humor fall flat, with forced banter between Mackie and co-star Danny Ramirez feeling like a workplace skit. The film’s tone is also inconsistent, veering wildly from serious to goofy.
The addition of Harrison Ford as President Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross adds some much-needed gravitas to the film, but even his presence can’t elevate the overall mediocrity of Brave New World. Director Julius Onah shows promise with his tightly coiled dramatic thriller Luce, but here he struggles to bring a sense of urgency and excitement to the movie.
The final product feels like a forever-franchise threat rather than viable mass-market entertainment. With some promising elements and a likable lead actor, Captain America: Brave New World has the potential to be an enjoyable film. Unfortunately, it falls flat due to its weak writing, inconsistent tone, and inability to tie together the various threads of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Source: https://www.avclub.com/captain-america-brave-new-world-review