“I’ll have to admit, I’m still getting used to the new look.”

That quote from the movie summarizes the main criticisms certain groups have toward the newest Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) project “Captain America: Brave New World.” 

   The 2025 blockbuster features the newly minted Captain America, Sam Wilson portrayed by Anthony Mackie, as he unravels a plot to sabotage the newly elected President Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross. The movie received mixed reviews from critics but has been highly praised by audiences. With a critic score of 48% on the notable review platform “Rotten Tomatoes,” placing it at the third worst rated Marvel movie by critics. However the audience score of 79% tells a different story.

“Rotten tomatoes scores didn’t do this movie justice. Way better than I was led to believe by this site.” Said Rotten Tomatoes reviewer “WaveDaddy”.

    The film was a return to formula for the MCU. Since the smash hit “Avengers: Endgame” the company has had trouble finding its footing. With releases such as “Eternals” and “Thor: Love & Thunder.” being trashed by critics and audiences alike “Brave New World.” is a refreshing return to the golden days of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

One standout performance was Tim Blake Nelson as Dr. Samuel Sterns or as the comic fans know him as “The Leader”. Nelson’s Sterns provides a much needed darker tone to the film. Sterns functions as less of a physical threat (which is provided by Harrison Ford’s Red Hulk) but rather as a cerebral enemy who works behind the scenes to orchestrate and manipulate rather than individually facing his enemies. Some fans had backlash due to the fact that Stern’s appearance in the film was not directly adapted from the comic books. “The Leader’s” enlarged green head was replaced with a grotesque brain mush that was created using practical effects. The change overall gave Sterns a more serious and threatening presence. The change was made very late into filming so many promotional images and toys had already been made featuring Sterns in a more comic-esque appearance.

Much of the backlash the movie received was due to character Sam Wilson taking up the mantle of Captain America from the retired Steve Rogers. At the end of “Avengers: Endgame” the original Captain America gives the shield to his partner Wilson to become the new Cap however many took issue with this due to Wilson being a black man. 

 “Unfortunately with major hits like “INVINCIBLE”, “THE BOYS” AND “GEN-X” Not to mention “SOLO LEVELING” people are tired of “WOKE” goofy ass Superhero movies.” said reviewer Jason White.

Others find the change refreshing and a great thematic change for the character.

“Captain America Brave New World delivers thrilling action with stunning visuals. Anthony Mackie does a great job carrying the mantle of Captain America. A must-watch for Marvel fans” said Rotten Tomatoes reviewer Rena B.