Marvel fans, assemble! The much-anticipated Captain America: Brave New World has finally been unveiled to select audiences, and the early reactions are rolling in. The excitement surrounding Anthony Mackie’s first outing as Captain America in a solo film is at an all-time high. While some critics are raving about the film’s action and storytelling, others feel it lacks the emotional depth expected from a Captain America movie. Let’s break down the first reactions to this latest MCU installment.
Critics Are Divided on ‘Brave New World’
Marvel’s “Captain America: Brave New World” premiered for members of the press, and the reviews are… mixed. Some are calling it a thrilling addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, while others think it falls a little flat.
Herb Scribner from The Washington Post shared his excitement on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“Absolute blast. All-in on the story. It just checked so many boxes for me. Felt like an MCU movie where other projects actually matter again. Lots of cohesion.”
However, not all reviews were glowing. Film critic Cris Parker felt the film didn’t hit the emotional and narrative highs he expected.
“Loved Mackie as Cap and I appreciated the more serious tone, but it did feel slightly empty.”
This divide in opinion suggests that while the film delivers on spectacle, it may not fully capture the emotional weight fans were hoping for.
What Works? Action, Performances, and a Strong Captain America
The action sequences and performances stood out as highlights for those who enjoyed Captain America: Brave New World. Anthony Mackie, stepping fully into the Captain America mantle, was praised for his commanding presence and on-screen chemistry with Danny Ramirez (who plays the new Falcon).
Entertainment writer Chris Gallardo expressed his enthusiasm:
“Captain America: Brave New World proves Anthony Mackie has RIGHTFULLY EARNED the role of Captain America. His chemistry with Danny Ramirez is great! Harrison Ford as President Ross/Red Hulk is charming, and the action really rocks when it happens.”
Meanwhile, Jazz Tangcay raved about the film’s big-screen experience:
“See #CaptainAmericaBraveNewWorld on the biggest screen possible. It does what it should and is entertaining blockbuster action. Anthony Mackie kicks ass as Captain America.”
What Falls Short? Pacing and World-Building Concerns
Not everyone was thrilled with the way the movie unfolded. Some critics believe that the film played it too safe, avoiding bold storytelling risks.
Film critic John Flickinger was particularly unimpressed:
“Clunky, anticlimactic, and about as exciting as a rerun. The screenplay gives the characters little to do, the action feels like it’s just checking a box, and Red Hulk? Don’t bother getting hyped.”
Another major concern is the political themes in the film. While the movie touches on global conflicts and conspiracies, some feel it pulled its punches rather than diving deep into the themes.
Emmanuel Noisette shared his thoughts:
A New Era for Captain America
Regardless of the mixed reception, Captain America: Brave New World marks a major transition for the MCU. It’s the first Captain America film without Chris Evans, fully handing the shield over to Sam Wilson. The film explores what it means to be Captain America in today’s world, a theme that was initially addressed in the Disney+ series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.
The plot follows Sam Wilson, who must put aside his differences with President Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross (played by Harrison Ford) to investigate a global conspiracy tied to adamantium. The film introduces new faces, including Giancarlo Esposito as the villain Sidewinder and Shira Haas as U.S. government agent Sabra.
Final Thoughts – Should You Be Excited?
The early reactions suggest that Captain America: Brave New World is a solid but safe MCU entry. If you’re a fan of Anthony Mackie and have been eager to see him fully step into the Captain America role, this movie will likely deliver on that front. However, if you were hoping for an emotionally charged, groundbreaking film, you may find it lacking depth.
With Marvel Studios looking to rebuild audience trust after a few divisive releases, all eyes will be on Brave New World to see if it can reignite excitement in the MCU. The film officially hits theaters on February 14, and only time will tell whether fans embrace this new Captain America or wish for the return of the old.
Read More: