Captain America: Brave New World – How Steve Rogers Still Shapes Sam Wilson’s Story
Although Captain America: Brave New World is firmly Sam Wilson’s movie, Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers remains an influential figure looming large over the MCU’s next chapter. With a release date set for February 14, 2025, the highly anticipated fourth installment dives into Sam’s journey as the new Captain America, navigating an international crisis, government conspiracies, and the heavy weight of his predecessor’s legacy.
The newly released trailer revisits pivotal moments between Steve Rogers and Sam Wilson, reminding fans of the bond that shaped Sam’s rise as Captain America.
The trailer opens with flashbacks from Captain America: The Winter Soldier, including their iconic “On your left” introduction and their camaraderie built during Steve’s fight against Hydra. It transitions to the Avengers: Endgame scene where an elderly Steve passes the shield to Sam, symbolically entrusting him with the mantle.
Steve’s words to Sam—”It’s why it’s yours”—echo throughout the trailer, juxtaposed with the present-day narrative where Sam faces skepticism and challenges in filling the role. When President Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford) dismissively says, “You’re not Steve Rogers,” Sam boldly replies, “You’re right. I’m not,” asserting his individuality as the new Captain America.
A New Era of Captain America
Brave New World explores Sam Wilson’s struggles in defining his own Captain America while honouring Steve’s legacy.
Rebuilding the Avengers: President Ross tasks Sam with reuniting Earth’s mightiest heroes amidst a global conflict over Adamantium. This reflects the immense responsibility Sam bears, stepping into Steve’s shoes.
New Adversaries: The trailer introduces Giancarlo Esposito’s villainous Sidewinder and Tim Blake Nelson’s The Leader, with Ross himself transforming into Red Hulk, raising the stakes for Sam.
More Than One Captain America
Sam Wilson isn’t the only Cap influencing the story. Isaiah Bradley (Carl Lumbly), Marvel Comics’ first Black Captain America, returns, bringing emotional depth and historical context to Sam’s journey. His presence will likely remind Sam—and audiences—of the complex legacy he now carries.
Will Chris Evans Return?
While the trailer features only archival footage of Steve Rogers, speculation about Chris Evans’ return persists. Reports suggest Evans could appear in Avengers: Doomsday and a cameo or post-credits scene in Brave New World seems plausible. This could serve as a bridge for Steve’s eventual re-entry into the MCU or offer closure to lingering questions about his post-Endgame fate.
With Brave New World, Marvel Studios has the opportunity to redefine what it means to be Captain America. By addressing Sam Wilson’s personal and global challenges while honouring Steve Rogers’ legacy, the film promises to push the character—and the franchise—into bold, uncharted territory.
Are you excited to see Anthony Mackie take centre stage as the new Cap? Could Steve Rogers make a surprise appearance? Let us know your thoughts!
