With the upcoming release of Captain America: Brave New World on February 14, fans are eager to see how Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) continues his journey as the new Captain America so which movies do you need to watch to make sure you know the key contexts?
Chris Evans stepped away from the role at the end of 2019’s Avengers: Endgame and Mackie‘s character has been building momentum since he took up the shield and mantle by the end of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier in 2021 alongside Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes.
In this latest flick, Wilson will find himself at the center of an international incident and must work to stop the true masterminds behind it shortly after the election of Thaddeus Ross as the president of the United States.
Mackie stars as a former pararescueman, trained by the military in aerial combat, using a custom wing pack before becoming an Avenger. The character does not have the Super Soldier Serum that Steve Rogers did, making him an underdog according to produce Nate Moore.
Harrison Ford stars as Ross and was previously a U.S. Army general and then the U.S. Secretary of State, before being transformed into Red Hulk despite being the president. Ford steps into the role portrayed by William Hurt from 2008-2021. Hurt died in March 2022 from cancer at 71.
Which films and shows to watch for Captain America: Brave New World?
So if this is your first rodeo into Marvel Cinematic Universe, then to get fully prepared for Captain America: Brave New World, it’s important to watch a few key films and series to track Sam Wilson‘s evolution into the role.
Without further ado, here is the list:
- The Incredible Hulk (2008): Introduces Bruce Banner and Betty Ross, key figures in the Hulk’s storyline.
- Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014): Sam Wilson’s first appearance; sets up his bond with Steve Rogers.
- Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015): Introduces Wanda Maximoff; Sam teams up with Avengers against Ultron.
- Captain America: Civil War (2016): Sam joins Team Cap; conflict over the Sokovia Accords.
- Avengers: Infinity War (2018): Avengers face Thanos; Sam’s role in the team expands.
- Avengers: Endgame (2019): Sam inherits the shield, becoming the new Captain America after Steve Rogers’ departure.
- The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021): Focuses on Sam Wilson’s journey in becoming Captain America.
Optional Watch:
- Captain America: The First Avenger (2011): Origins of Steve Rogers; pivotal in Captain America’s legacy.