Captain America: Brave New World Is Secretly an Incredible Hulk Sequel

Captain America: Brave New World, the fourth installment in the Marvel franchise, stars Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson, succeeding Chris Evans' Steve Rogers. This film, however, isn't just a continuation of the Captain America storyline; it significantly expands on plot points from one of the earliest MCU movies, acting as a de facto sequel to The Incredible Hulk.

The film reunites several key characters from The Incredible Hulk, creating a compelling narrative link.

The Leader's Return: Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns, introduced in The Incredible Hulk as a scientist working with Bruce Banner, undergoes a transformation into the villainous Leader after exposure to Banner's blood. His subsequent actions, revealed in the MCU-canon comic The Avengers Prelude: Fury’s Big Week, show his capture by S.H.I.E.L.D. and eventual escape, setting the stage for his involvement in the conspiracy surrounding Captain America and President Ross. His potential involvement with Ross's transformation into Red Hulk and his interest in adamantium, a newly introduced super-metal, are significant plot points.

Betty Ross's Comeback: Liv Tyler reprises her role as Betty Ross, Bruce Banner's former love interest and daughter of Thunderbolt Ross. Her past involvement in Project Gamma Pulse and her complicated relationship with her father are revisited. Her expertise in gamma radiation and the possibility of her becoming Red She-Hulk in this iteration of the MCU add layers of intrigue.

President Ross and Red Hulk: Harrison Ford takes on the role of Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, previously portrayed by William Hurt. Now President of the United States, Ross's past animosity towards the Hulk and his pursuit of controlling superhuman threats are central to the plot. The film reveals his transformation into Red Hulk, suggesting a Faustian bargain with The Leader to secure national security, particularly concerning the newly discovered adamantium.

Hulk's Absence: The notable absence of Bruce Banner/Hulk raises questions. While his involvement isn't explicitly ruled out, his current focus on family matters, including his son Skaar, might explain his lack of presence in this conflict. His potential cameo or post-credits appearance remains a possibility.

The film's title, Brave New World, reflects the introduction of adamantium and its geopolitical implications, adding another layer of complexity to the already intricate storyline. The film's focus on these returning characters and the introduction of adamantium solidifies its position as a significant addition to the MCU, and a long-awaited continuation of the Hulk's saga.

[Poll: Will Mark Ruffalo's Hulk appear in Captain America: Brave New World?]

• Yes, he'll show up to help Cap fight Red Hulk.
• Yes, but only as a quick cameo.
• No, he won't be in this movie.