Captain America: Brave New World brings a dramatic shift to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), marking new directions for familiar characters like Sam Wilson, Thaddeus Ross, and the Avengers. At the heart of the story is Samuel Sterns, a mastermind whose revenge scheme against Ross brings the political and superhero worlds to the brink of chaos. With the discovery of adamantium and a new wave of conflict, the MCU faces a pivotal moment in shaping its future.
Captain America: Brave New World Ending Explained
After President Ross’s explosive transformation into the Red Hulk and the subsequent destruction at the White House, his presidency is brought to an abrupt end. The public spectacle forced the U.S. government to remove him from office, signaling a significant loss of credibility for the leader. The film focuses on Ross’s struggles, his eventual imprisonment alongside Samuel Sterns at the Raft, and the aftermath of his actions.
Ross, despite his public humiliation, accepts the steps taken to remove him from power, understanding the necessity of these actions. His condition as Red Hulk, however, remains volatile. His transformation is tied to experimental pills that build up Gamma radiation in his body, indicating that Ross is still at risk of changing into the Red Hulk if provoked.
A New Leader in the White House
With Ross ousted, the film leaves the question of his successor unanswered. Given the absence of the Vice President and other key figures during these events, it’s left unclear who assumes leadership. However, based on the U.S. Presidential Succession Act, the Vice President, or other senior government officials, would likely take over. Whoever steps in inherits control over critical matters such as the regulation of enhanced individuals, extraterrestrial affairs, and the management of newly discovered resources like adamantium.
Despite Ross’s fall from grace, the film introduces the significant implications of adamantium’s discovery. This new material presents unprecedented opportunities, especially for defense and technology, and the new president will be faced with the responsibilities and power this affords.
Samuel Sterns and His Hidden Agenda
Samuel Sterns, the man behind much of the turmoil in Brave New World, has long plotted his revenge against Thaddeus Ross. His plans come close to success but are ultimately thwarted by Sam Wilson, who prevents a world-threatening conflict. Sterns, who had hoped to manipulate events to expose Ross as the Red Hulk, is captured and incarcerated at the Raft. However, his knowledge, particularly about the multiverse, remains a looming threat.
Sterns hints at greater dangers to come, warning Captain America of impending clashes between different worlds. His ominous words suggest that the MCU is heading toward multiversal incursions, setting the stage for future MCU installments such as Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. Although he is confined, Sterns’ understanding of the multiverse could become critical in future events.
Also Read: Black Swan Ending Explained: Did Nina Achieve Perfection or Lose Herself?
Sam Wilson’s New Mission: Rebuilding the Avengers
With President Ross’s administration collapsing and the need for a unified defense against rising threats, Sam Wilson, as Captain America, begins the process of rebuilding the Avengers. However, Ross’s previous attempts to regulate superheroes with the Sokovia Accords weigh heavily on Sam, who is wary of Ross’s motives. Still, Sam recognizes the need for an official team to handle emerging threats and begins discussing the formation of a new Avengers lineup.
The current roster of active heroes is somewhat scattered. Sam Wilson’s Captain America, Clint Barton (Hawkeye), Ant-Man and Wasp, Hulk, Thor, and other heroes are spread across the globe, dealing with their personal lives or resting from previous battles. However, some are more likely to respond to Sam’s call for a new Avengers team, including Falcon, Ant-Man, and Bucky Barnes, who makes a brief cameo in the film.
Newer faces such as She-Hulk, Moon Knight, Shang-Chi, and Daredevil, could also join the team. Additionally, the looming threat of multiversal incursions may open the door for iconic characters like Deadpool, Wolverine, and the Fantastic Four to be inducted into the team, adding a new dimension to the Avengers’ roster.
The Serpent Society: Sidewinder’s Escape
One of the film’s key antagonists, Sidewinder, played by Giancarlo Esposito, is caught and imprisoned after his failed attempts to manipulate both Captain America and President Ross. Hired by Sterns to further his agenda, Sidewinder faces defeat after a brutal confrontation with Captain America. Despite being captured, he negotiates with Cap, offering valuable intelligence about Sterns’ operations in exchange for immunity.
Sidewinder’s fate, however, remains uncertain. Even after his incarceration, he hints at escaping with the help of the Serpent Society, a criminal organization that could play a larger role in future MCU films. The looming threat of the Serpent Society’s activities suggests that Sidewinder’s story is far from over, and his alliance with Sterns could lead to more trouble down the road.
Isaiah Bradley and Ruth Bat-Seraph: A Moment of Peace
Isaiah Bradley and Ruth Bat-Seraph, both pivotal characters in the fight against injustice, receive a much-needed break after the chaos of Brave New World. Isaiah’s wrongful imprisonment for his alleged assassination attempt on President Ross is overturned, thanks to Sam Wilson’s efforts to clear his name. By the film’s end, Isaiah and Ruth are seen enjoying a peaceful moment together, showing the value of their friendship and loyalty.
Ruth, who played a crucial role in the downfall of Sterns’s plans, likely continues her important work. Her relationship with Sam Wilson seems strong, ensuring her continued involvement in future endeavors to maintain peace and justice.
A Multiversal Threat on the Horizon
The film’s post-credits scene serves as a powerful teaser for the MCU’s future. Samuel Sterns cryptically warns Captain America of impending threats from other worlds, suggesting that the multiverse will soon collide. This ominous message hints at the larger conflicts yet to come, particularly in Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. Stern’s words suggest that the Avengers and their allies will be forced to protect their world from others—potentially alternate versions of heroes or villains.
These events will likely set the stage for an epic multiversal war where the fate of all timelines and universes hangs in the balance. As the MCU continues to explore the concept of the multiverse, Sterns’ prediction adds an exciting layer of complexity to the unfolding saga.
Also Read: Eternals Ending Explained: What’s the Future of the Eternals After the Celestial’s Judgment?
