Introduction
As the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) continues to evolve, its interconnected films and shows have become increasingly important for fans to follow. One of the most anticipated upcoming releases in the MCU is Captain America: Brave New World. This film will see Sam Wilson officially take up the mantle of Captain America after the events of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. With so much groundwork already laid in the MCU, there are several key movies and shows that fans should watch before diving into this new chapter. In this article, we’ll highlight the most crucial films and series to catch up on before watching Captain America: Brave New World.
1. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021)
The most important show to watch before Captain America: Brave New World is undoubtedly The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. This series directly explores Sam Wilson’s journey to becoming Captain America. After Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) passed on the shield at the end of Avengers: Endgame, Sam faces a difficult decision about whether he is worthy to take on the role of Captain America. The show also delves into themes of legacy, identity, and the political ramifications of a Black man holding the iconic symbol of Captain America.
The series also introduces new characters such as John Walker (Wyatt Russell), who briefly takes on the mantle of Captain America, and Baron Zemo (Daniel Brühl), who plays a key role in shaping the events of this show and potentially the future of the MCU. Watching this series is crucial for understanding Sam’s emotional arc and the challenges he faces in stepping into such a monumental role.
2. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
Avengers: Endgame is essential viewing for any MCU project that follows the events of the Infinity Saga. This film is where Steve Rogers officially passes the Captain America mantle to Sam Wilson, solidifying Sam’s future role as the new Cap. The emotional farewell between Steve and Sam is a pivotal moment in the MCU, and it sets the stage for Sam to step into a larger role in the upcoming film. The final scenes with Steve Rogers also offer insight into the legacy of Captain America, which will undoubtedly play a part in Captain America: Brave New World.
The impact of the Avengers: Endgame events continues to resonate throughout the MCU, especially as various characters deal with the aftermath of the battle against Thanos. Sam’s decision to accept the shield and become the new Captain America is just one of the significant shifts in the post-Endgame MCU.
3. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
As the second installment in the Captain America series, The Winter Soldier is a crucial film in understanding the themes and style of Captain America in the MCU. The movie explores Steve Rogers’ struggle to find his place in the modern world while dealing with the complexities of his past. It also introduces Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) as the Winter Soldier, one of the most important figures in Sam Wilson’s journey.
This film’s political thriller tone and exploration of the government’s role in controlling powerful individuals may provide important context for Sam as he navigates his role as Captain America. The film also highlights the importance of loyalty, friendship, and the personal stakes involved in being a hero, all of which are expected to influence Sam’s own version of Captain America.
4. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
While Avengers: Infinity War is a more expansive film involving multiple characters and storylines, it plays a key role in understanding the relationships between the Avengers as well as the sacrifices that come with being a superhero. This movie sets the stage for the final battle against Thanos in Avengers: Endgame and serves as a pivotal moment for characters like Sam Wilson, who finds himself fighting alongside the Avengers to stop the Mad Titan.
The film also features key moments that directly impact Sam’s development, particularly when he fights alongside his fellow Avengers to prevent Thanos from obtaining all of the Infinity Stones. The emotional weight of this film is something that will likely resonate in Sam’s future as Captain America.
5. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
While not directly tied to Captain America, Spider-Man: No Way Home is an important film in the larger MCU that affects the dynamics between heroes. The film touches on the consequences of being a public superhero and the complexities of responsibility that come with it. As Sam Wilson takes on the mantle of Captain America, he will likely face similar challenges of balancing his private life with his newfound responsibilities.
This film also deepens the relationship between the various MCU heroes, and Sam will no doubt draw on the lessons learned from these experiences as he assumes his new role. The film also expands on the multiverse concept, which could potentially influence future storylines in Captain America: Brave New World.
6. WandaVision (2021)
WandaVision is another important series in the MCU, especially as it introduces themes of grief, identity, and the struggle to accept change. These are all topics that Sam Wilson will likely encounter as he transitions into the role of Captain America. Wanda’s journey throughout the series serves as a reminder of how complex and challenging it can be to be a superhero, especially when your own personal struggles intersect with your public responsibilities.
The series also explores the psychological impact of powerful beings and the consequences of being a symbol of hope, which Sam will need to grapple with as Captain America. WandaVision provides a deeper understanding of how heroes, including Sam, can be shaped by their personal journeys and how they navigate their roles in the larger MCU.
7. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
Shang-Chi introduces a new hero to the MCU, and while the film mainly focuses on Shang-Chi’s journey, it also provides important context for the future of the MCU. The post-credit scenes hint at the return of key characters and the possibility of larger cosmic threats looming in the background. This could have significant implications for Sam Wilson as Captain America, as the character is likely to be involved in global or interdimensional conflicts.
The film also explores themes of family, legacy, and self-discovery, all of which align with Sam’s arc in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Understanding these themes will help set the stage for Sam’s challenges as he takes on his new role as Captain America.
Conclusion
The upcoming Captain America: Brave New World will be a crucial chapter in the MCU, as Sam Wilson officially steps into the role of Captain America. To fully appreciate the journey leading up to this film, it’s important to revisit several key movies and TV shows in the MCU. By watching The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Avengers: Endgame, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Avengers: Infinity War, Spider-Man: No Way Home, WandaVision, and Shang-Chi, fans will gain the necessary context to understand Sam’s growth, the legacy of Captain America, and the challenges he’ll face as the new hero of the MCU. With these foundational pieces in place, Captain America: Brave New World is set to deliver an exciting and emotional story that builds on the MCU’s rich history.
