Captain America: Brave New World - Top WTF Questions Answered

Marvel Studios has launched its 2025 slate with the release of *Captain America: Brave New World*, but the film has left fans with more questions than answers. As the first movie to feature Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson stepping into the iconic role of Captain America, it unfortunately falls short of expectations (as detailed in IGN's review). The film struggles with unresolved plot points and underdeveloped characters, prompting a series of "WTF" questions from viewers.

Captain America: Brave New World Gallery

12 ImagesWhere Was Banner This Whole Time?

Captain America: Brave New World attempts to tie up loose ends from The Incredible Hulk, showcasing the return of characters like Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns and Harrison Ford's Thaddeus Ross. Yet, the absence of Mark Ruffalo's Bruce Banner feels glaring. Given the film's connections to the Hulk narrative, it's puzzling why Banner, who has been shown to be actively involved in global affairs post-Avengers disbandment, is not present. His absence leaves a noticeable gap in the storyline, especially given his history with key characters like Ross and Sterns.

Why Does The Leader Think So Small?

Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns, now known as The Leader, returns with enhanced intelligence due to gamma exposure. However, his plans in Brave New World seem surprisingly shortsighted. Despite his ability to calculate and strategize, Sterns' schemes, such as orchestrating a war between the US and Japan, fail to account for Captain America's intervention. Moreover, his decision to turn himself in to execute a final plan against Ross feels anticlimactic and lacks the grandiosity expected of such a formidable villain from the comics.

Why Is Red Hulk So Much Like Green Hulk?

Why Did Those Blades Hurt Red Hulk but Not Bullets?

Red Hulk's invulnerability is showcased when he withstands bullets, yet Captain America's vibranium blades are able to pierce his skin. This raises questions about the properties of vibranium and how it interacts with Red Hulk's abilities, hinting at potential future confrontations with characters like Wolverine, whose adamantium could pose a similar threat.

Why Is Bucky a Politician Now?

Sebastian Stan's Bucky Barnes makes a brief appearance, revealing his new role as a politician. This unexpected career shift for a character with a complex and violent past raises eyebrows. While it's great to see Bucky and Sam's friendship acknowledged, his political ambitions seem out of character and unexplained, leaving fans curious about how this development will be explored in future projects like Thunderbolts.

Why Does Sidewinder Want to Kill Cap So Badly?

Giancarlo Esposito's Sidewinder emerges as a new antagonist in Brave New World, leading the terrorist group Serpent. His intense personal vendetta against Captain America is a central plot point, yet the film fails to delve into the reasons behind his hatred. This lack of explanation leaves viewers puzzled, especially given the significant changes made during the film's reshoots.

What Was the Point of Sabra, Exactly?

Shira Haas's Ruth Bat-Seraph, a former Red Room operative turned government agent, is introduced but feels underutilized. Her role as a potential ally to Captain America and her connection to the larger narrative seem minimal, leaving fans questioning her purpose in the film. Additionally, her character's significant deviation from the comic book Sabra raises questions about the adaptation choices made by Marvel.

What’s the Deal With Adamantium Now?

The introduction of adamantium in Brave New World adds a new element to the MCU, yet its role as a plot device feels somewhat superficial. While it sets the stage for future conflicts and potentially the introduction of Wolverine, the film leaves many questions unanswered about its broader implications and how it will shape the MCU's future.

Why Are We No Closer to the Avengers?

Despite the introduction of numerous new heroes in recent MCU projects, Captain America: Brave New World does little to advance the formation of a new Avengers team. The film teases the idea of Sam Wilson leading the Avengers, but fails to bring any additional heroes into the fold during its climax. This leaves fans wondering when, if ever, the MCU will reunite its heroes for another team-up.

What do you think? What had you saying “WTF?!?” after watching Brave New World? And should we have gotten more Avengers in the latest Captain America movie? Vote in our poll and let us know what you think in the comments below: