Captain America: Brave New World - Our Biggest WTF Questions

Marvel Studios launched its 2025 film slate with Captain America: Brave New World, a sequel that, unfortunately, leaves much to be desired. While it features Anthony Mackie as the new Captain America, the film falls short of expectations, leaving viewers with several unanswered questions and underdeveloped characters. Our biggest WTF moments? Let's dive in.

Captain America: Brave New World Gallery

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Where Was Banner This Whole Time?

Seventeen years later, Marvel finally delivered a sequel to The Incredible Hulk within Captain America: Brave New World. The film revisits loose ends from Hulk's first solo MCU adventure, revealing the fate of Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns and Harrison Ford's Thaddeus Ross. Liv Tyler also returns as Betty Ross. However, a crucial element is missing: the Hulk himself. Mark Ruffalo's Bruce Banner is absent from a story directly building upon The Incredible Hulk's foundation. Surely, Banner would react to his nemesis becoming President, to "Mr. Blue" becoming a gamma-irradiated mastermind, and to the Hulk's rampage at the White House. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings established that Banner, alongside Captain Marvel, monitors global events post-Avengers disbandment. She-Hulk shows his ongoing research and raising Skaar. So, why the absence? While Marvel will likely offer an explanation (perhaps off-world with Skaar), Banner's absence leaves a significant plot hole. The film centers on Sam Wilson accepting the need for new Avengers, yet only includes a brief Bucky cameo. Including Banner would have strengthened the narrative.

Why Does The Leader Think So Small?

Brave New World sees the return of Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns, transformed by gamma radiation into a super-intelligent being. However, the film doesn't fully showcase his brilliance. He orchestrates a war but doesn't account for Captain America's intervention. His surrender at the climax, to simply play a recording to the press, is baffling. The Leader of the comics is a mastermind; here, he's driven by a petty grudge against Ross. His lack of ambition is surprising, especially given his awareness of impending global threats. His motivations feel too small for such a significant villain.

Why Is Red Hulk So Much Like Green Hulk?

The film culminates in a battle between Cap and a Hulked-out President Ross. While this plot twist is rooted in the comics, the MCU's Red Hulk differs significantly. In the comics, Red Hulk retains his intelligence and tactical prowess. In the film, he's mindless and uncontrollable, subdued by thoughts of Betty, much like the early Hulk. The irony of Ross becoming what he hated is present, but the opportunity to showcase a different take on the Hulk—a battle-hardened soldier with immense strength—is missed.

Why Did Those Blades Hurt Red Hulk but Not Bullets?

Red Hulk's invulnerability is shown when he shrugs off bullets. Yet, Cap's vibranium blades pierce him. This suggests vibranium's unique properties are the key factor, a contrast to conventional weaponry.

Why Is Bucky a Politician Now?

Bucky Barnes' cameo reveals his political aspirations. However, his past actions and personality seem ill-suited for a political career. While the inclusion is a nod to his bromance with Sam, his transition to politics feels abrupt and unexplained.

Why Does Sidewinder Want to Kill Cap So Badly?

Sidewinder, the new antagonist, harbors a personal grudge against Captain America, but the reasons remain unclear. Reshoots might have affected the explanation of his motivations. His future role in a Disney+ series hints at a potential resolution to this dangling plot thread.

What Was the Point of Sabra, Exactly?

Ruth Bat-Seraph, a Black Widow archetype, serves as a minor obstacle before becoming an ally. Her adaptation from the comics feels unnecessary, as she lacks the original character's Israeli background and mutant abilities.

What’s the Deal With Adamantium Now?

Adamantium's introduction serves primarily as a plot device, driving conflict between global powers. Its long-term implications and impact on the MCU remain uncertain, though its connection to Wolverine is evident.

Why Are We No Closer to the Avengers?

Years after the disbandment of the Avengers, the MCU has introduced numerous new heroes, but the formation of a new team remains elusive. Brave New World hints at the need for a new team, but fails to actively lay the groundwork for an Avengers reunion. The climax could have benefited from additional Avengers, making the conflict more engaging. The lack of preparation for a new team leaves the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday with a significant hurdle to overcome.

For more on Captain America: Brave New World and the future of the MCU, check out our ending explained breakdown and see every Marvel movie and series in development.