"Captain America: Brave New World" marks a pivotal chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), introducing Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson as the new Captain America. This film not only continues the legacy of Captain America but also ties up several loose threads from the MCU's early days, effectively serving as a sequel to "The Incredible Hulk." Here, we explore the connections with key characters from "The Incredible Hulk" and their roles in the upcoming movie.
Captain America: Brave New World Debut Trailer Images
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Tim Blake Nelson’s The Leader
In "The Incredible Hulk," Tim Blake Nelson's character, Samuel Sterns, was introduced as a potential villain, setting the stage for his transformation into The Leader. Sterns initially collaborates with Bruce Banner, but his ambition leads him to unethical experiments with gamma radiation. His eventual exposure to Banner's blood marks the beginning of his transformation, a plot point that "Brave New World" picks up years later.
After his transformation, Sterns was taken into S.H.I.E.L.D. custody, as depicted in "The Avengers Prelude: Fury’s Big Week." However, he escapes and becomes central to a conspiracy involving Captain America and President Ross. With his superhuman intelligence, The Leader poses a formidable threat to Sam Wilson and Danny Ramirez's Falcon. His involvement may also be linked to the introduction of adamantium in the MCU, potentially fueling a global arms race.
Sterns was just beginning to transform into The Leader when last we saw him.Liv Tyler’s Betty Ross
Liv Tyler returns as Betty Ross, marking her first appearance since "The Incredible Hulk." Betty's history with Bruce Banner is deep-rooted, having met and fallen in love during their college years. She played a crucial role in Banner's transformation into the Hulk and has since navigated a strained relationship with her father, General Ross.
Betty's return to the MCU in "Brave New World" raises questions about her current role. As the daughter of the President, her involvement could range from reconciling with her father to leveraging her gamma research expertise. In the comics, Betty becomes Red She-Hulk, sparking speculation about her potential transformation in the film.
Harrison Ford’s President Ross/Red Hulk
Harrison Ford steps into the role of Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, previously played by William Hurt. Ross's journey from a military general to the President of the United States is central to "Brave New World." His history with the Hulk began with Project Gamma Pulse, which inadvertently led to Banner's transformation.
Ross's relentless pursuit of the Hulk strained his relationship with his daughter and led to disastrous consequences, including the creation of the Abomination. His subsequent roles in the MCU, including his involvement with the Sokovia Accords and his pursuit of rogue agents, highlight his complex character.
In "Brave New World," Ross seeks to redefine himself as a diplomat and elder statesman, attempting to mend ties with Sam Wilson and initiate a new era of cooperation with the Avengers. However, his transformation into Red Hulk after an assassination attempt draws Captain America into a deep conspiracy. Ross's interest in adamantium further complicates the geopolitical landscape, setting the stage for a thrilling narrative.
Where Is The Hulk in Brave New World?
Despite the strong connections to "The Incredible Hulk," Bruce Banner, played by Mark Ruffalo, appears to be absent from "Brave New World." This absence is notable given Banner's evolution from a fugitive to a respected member of the Avengers and his newfound control over his Hulk persona.
Banner's absence might be explained by his current focus on his family of Hulks, including his cousin Jen Walters (She-Hulk) and his son Skaar. However, the possibility of a cameo or a post-credits scene involving Banner remains open, given the film's deep ties to his past.
