Six years after the Avengers disbanded following Thanos' defeat and Tony Stark's death, the world needs its heroes again. With new Avengers films slated for 2026 and 2027, the MCU must quickly reassemble the team. Captain America: Brave New World initiates this crucial recruitment process.
"We understand the audience's longing for the Avengers," explains Nate Moore, a Marvel Studios producer and key figure in the fourth Captain America film. "But rushing back into an Avengers storyline post-Endgame would've prevented people from truly missing them."
Moore emphasizes Captain America's central role in successful Avengers teams throughout Marvel comics history. Following Steve Rogers' passing of the shield to Sam Wilson in Avengers: Endgame, the MCU invested time in developing Wilson's leadership skills. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier showcased his struggles, but Brave New World finds him proudly embracing the mantle. However, a new challenge awaits: leading a new Avengers team.
A marketing clip reveals President Ross (Harrison Ford, succeeding the late William Hurt) tasks Wilson with restarting the Avengers initiative. This might surprise long-time fans, considering Ross's role in establishing the Sokovia Accords.
"He had a legacy defined by anger," notes director Julius Onah. "But now, he's a statesman, a diplomat, acknowledging past mistakes. He wants to reform the Avengers for the world's benefit."
Ross's military background highlights his understanding of tactical advantages. The film depicts a government-sanctioned Avengers team, effectively a branch of the US defense department.
"Ross, the architect of the Sokovia Accords, understands the unchecked power of the Avengers," Moore explains. "He sees controlled power as advantageous, aiming to secure it before others do."
"A nation with Avengers holds a significant advantage," says Moore. "Ross, as a general, understands this perfectly."
Sam Wilson's Captain America Journey in the Comics
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The film explores the complex relationship between Ross and Wilson. Wilson's commitment to Steve Rogers' anti-government ideals contrasts with Ross's past actions.
"I focused on Sam's emotional journey," says Onah. "His confrontation with Ross, who previously imprisoned him due to the Sokovia Accords, creates palpable tension."
The possibility of John Walker leading a government-backed Avengers team in Thunderbolts is raised. This leaves Wilson potentially forming an independent team, aligning with the arrival of Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday. Regardless, Brave New World positions Wilson for his inevitable leadership role.
Onah highlights Wilson's empathy as his superpower. His ability to understand diverse perspectives allows him to effectively wield the shield's values.
"His empathy makes him the Captain America of this era," Onah states.
"Sam's readiness to lead hinges on his belief in his Captain America identity," adds Moore. "The film explores his self-doubt, ultimately aiming to convince both him and the audience of his suitability."
With only two films before Avengers: Doomsday, Wilson's recruitment efforts in Thunderbolts and Fantastic Four: First Steps are anticipated. The assembly of Avengers 2.0 commences here.
