Marvel Unveils 'Captain America: Brave New World', Prequel to 'Avengers 2.0'

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. This crucial recruitment process begins in Captain America: Brave New World.

"We understand the audience's longing for the Avengers," states Nate Moore, a veteran Marvel Studios producer and key figure in the fourth Captain America film. "But rushing back into an Avengers storyline after Endgame wouldn't allow for the necessary anticipation."

Moore highlights 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 capabilities. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier showcased his struggles with this transition. In Brave New World, Wilson confidently embraces his role as Captain America, but faces a new challenge: leading a new Avengers team.

A pre-release clip reveals President Ross (Harrison Ford, succeeding the late William Hurt) tasking Wilson with restarting the Avengers initiative. This might surprise long-time fans, given Ross's role in establishing the Sokovia Accords, which fractured the team.

"He was known for his anger," explains Brave New World's director, Julius Onah. "But now, he's a statesman, a diplomat, acknowledging past mistakes and striving for improvement. He believes the Avengers can benefit the world."

Ross's military background underscores his understanding of tactical advantages. The film depicts a government-sanctioned Avengers team, directly under the President's authority.

"Ross, the architect of the Sokovia Accords," says Moore, "likely recognized the unchecked power of the Avengers. He sees controlled power as advantageous, aiming to secure it before others do."

"Any nation possessing the Avengers gains a significant advantage," Moore confirms. "Ross, as a general, understands this tactical benefit."

Sam Wilson's Captain America Journey in the Comics

11 ImagesThe potential conflict between Ross and Wilson's ideologies suggests a strained working relationship. Rogers' anti-government stance contrasts with Wilson's efforts to uphold his predecessor's values.

"I focused on Sam's emotional journey," notes Onah. "Contrasting him with Ross, who previously divided the Avengers, creates palpable tension. Their shared history, including Sam's imprisonment due to the Sokovia Accords, fuels this tension."

The possibility exists that Ross might favor a different team. The upcoming Thunderbolts, featuring John Walker and morally ambiguous anti-heroes, could become Ross's preferred Avengers team.

Should this occur, Wilson could assemble his own independent team, aligning with the arrival of Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday. Regardless, Brave New World marks Wilson's progression toward leading the Avengers.

Onah emphasizes Wilson's empathy as his superpower. While possessing combat skills, his ability to understand diverse perspectives allows him to effectively wield the shield's values.

"This empathy makes him a Captain America for this era," Onah states.

"Sam's readiness to lead the Avengers hinges on his belief in his Captain America identity," Moore adds. "The film explores his self-doubt, aiming to ultimately convince both him and the audience of his suitability for the role."

With only two films between Brave New World and Avengers: Doomsday, Wilson's recruitment efforts will likely feature in Thunderbolts and Fantastic Four: First Steps. While the timeline is shorter than the lead-up to 2012's The Avengers, the stage is set for the Avengers 2.0.