Captain America: Brave New World is now playing in theaters, marking an exciting moment for fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) now leads his own film after spending almost 11 years in the franchise.
His battles with U.S. President Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford) and Samuel Sterns, also known as The Leader (Tim Blake Nelson), connect back to earlier MCU projects. Some of these storylines even date back to The Incredible Hulk from 2008.
However, this movie does more than just revisit the past. It provides hints about what might come next for Sam and the Marvel universe. The role of Captain America carries great responsibility, but Sam handles it with confidence. He continues to fight for justice without hesitation, which is good news for audiences who appreciate Mackie’s engaging performance.
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Sam Wilson and Joaquin Torres Continue Fighting for Justice
When Sam became Captain America in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, he left behind his Falcon gear. He gave his winged jetpack to Air Force member Joaquin Torres (Danny Ramirez). Brave New World now confirms what many expected—Joaquin has officially taken on the role of Falcon.
Joaquin is excited about his new responsibilities, but Sam remains cautious about letting him jump into every mission.
He understands that Joaquin still needs more experience before facing the intense dangers of superhero battles. However, when super soldier Isaiah Bradley (Carl Lumbly) is wrongfully accused of attempting to assassinate Ross, Sam realizes he needs help. He brings Joaquin with him to uncover the truth and rescue Isaiah.
During their mission, they become involved in a major aerial battle between American and Japanese military forces. Joaquin fights bravely but suffers serious injuries. Thankfully, he survives and recovers in the hospital. Sam visits him, and they have an important conversation about the pressure that comes with being heroes.
Despite their struggles, both men remain committed to their roles. Joaquin admits that he looked up to Sam when he was younger and was inspired by his actions.
Before the incident with Isaiah disrupted their relationship, Ross had asked Sam to help rebuild the Avengers. Even though Ross later lost control and transformed into the Red Hulk, Sam still believes that forming a new Avengers team is the right move. He expresses this belief to Joaquin, showing that the idea of bringing superheroes together is still on his mind.
The Leader’s Warning Sets Up a Major Threat
The movie’s post-credits scene introduces an ominous warning about what is coming next. Sam visits Sterns, who is now locked up in the Raft, an underwater prison designed for superhumans.
Sterns does not seem worried about his imprisonment. Instead, he mocks Sam for believing that their world is the only one with heroes. He hints at a major danger involving other worlds, suggesting that Earth will soon face an overwhelming threat.
This statement appears to reference Marvel’s multiverse. It likely connects to upcoming films Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. Anthony Mackie has already confirmed that he will be involved in these movies, which will conclude the current Multiverse Saga.
Sterns does not provide many details, but his words imply something serious. He does not mention a specific villain like Victor von Doom, also known as Doctor Doom (Robert Downey Jr.).
Instead, he suggests that the biggest threat may come from the multiverse itself. This idea relates to a concept known as incursions, where two universes collide, often resulting in the destruction of one or both.
Incursions played a central role in the Secret Wars comic storyline, which heavily influences the upcoming movies. The concept was first introduced in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. In that film, a team called the Illuminati warns Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) about incursions.
Later, a sorceress named Clea (Charlize Theron) recruits Strange to fix an incursion he unknowingly caused during his battle with Wanda Maximoff, also known as the Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen).
The last scene before the credits suggests that both Sam and Joaquin will be part of the next Avengers team. However, the full roster of heroes remains uncertain.
Who Will Join the Next Avengers Team?
Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige has acknowledged that the MCU’s large cast makes it difficult to include every character in the upcoming Avengers films. Even though Brave New World introduces the idea of a new Avengers team, not every character from this movie will necessarily appear in Doomsday or Secret Wars.
Isaiah Bradley plays a significant role in Brave New World, but his future remains unclear. Similarly, the character Black Widow Ruth Bat-Seraph (Shira Haas) makes an impression in the film, but her presence in future Avengers movies is not guaranteed.
James “Bucky” Barnes, also known as the Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan), seems like a natural choice for the team. He has a strong connection to Sam and is a fan favorite. However, his role is also uncertain since he will already appear in Thunderbolts as a member of that team.
Other Clues About Sam Wilson’s Future
Beyond the Avengers setup, Brave New World introduces several story elements that could influence Sam’s future, though none are guaranteed to continue.
One important moment involves mercenary Seth Voelker, also known as Sidewinder (Giancarlo Esposito). After Sterns betrays him, Voelker decides to share valuable information about Sterns’ plan with Sam.
However, he makes it clear that this is only temporary. He warns Sam that if he ever escapes from military custody, he will come after him. This sets up a potential future conflict between them.
Another key discovery in the film is the existence of adamantium, an indestructible metal found on Earth-616. This metal plays an important role in Marvel comics, particularly in stories involving the X-Men. While adamantium will likely affect future MCU storylines, there is no confirmation that it will directly impact Sam’s journey.
At the end of the movie, Sam visits Ross, who is now imprisoned in the Raft after resigning from the presidency. He acknowledges Ross’s decision to take responsibility for his actions and commends him for accepting his punishment.
This interaction suggests that their relationship could change in the future. If Ross ever returns, he may no longer be Sam’s enemy. However, nothing confirms that this will happen.
A Strong Future for Sam Wilson
Brave New World provides action, emotional moments, and exciting developments for Sam Wilson’s character. The film strengthens his role as Captain America and hints at what lies ahead for the MCU.
Sam’s bond with Joaquin, the warning from The Leader, and the discussion about rebuilding the Avengers all indicate that big events are coming.
While many details remain unknown, one thing is clear—Sam Wilson is ready for whatever challenges come next. His leadership, determination, and heroism make him a key figure in the MCU’s future. Fans can look forward to seeing him take on even greater threats in the upcoming Avengers movies.
Also Read: Captain America: Brave New World End-Credits Scene Teases a Multiversal War
