Early 2025 is shaping up to become a Marvel blockbuster season, with Captain America: Brave New World and The Thunderbolts set to release. These two films promise to take the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in bold new directions, exploring complex characters and intense storylines that dive into the themes of legacy, morality, and heroism in an increasingly complex world.
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Captain America: Brave New World
Captain America: Brave New World marks a significant moment in the MCU, as Sam Wilson (played by Anthony Mackie) steps into his role as the new Captain America. After grappling with the responsibility in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Sam is now taking on the mantle in his first solo film as Cap. Directed by Julius Onah, the movie is expected to delve into the challenges Sam faces—not just in terms of fighting villains, but also in navigating what it means to be Captain America in a modern world with different cultural and political challenges.
Fans are especially eager to see the return of Thunderbolt Ross, now played by Harrison Ford, who will likely bring a new intensity to the character. Ross, a figure with complex intentions and a history of military influence, could play a pivotal role, potentially setting up bigger conflicts within the Marvel universe. Sharon Carter’s return is also highly anticipated, as her motivations and allegiances remain unclear after her transformation into the Power Broker. The film is expected to bring these characters together, testing Sam’s ideals and strength as he redefines what it means to carry the shield.
Watch the Captain America: Brave New World trailer below
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Thunderbolts
The Thunderbolts brings a unique team of antiheroes and reformed villains to the big screen, introducing a darker and grittier tone to the MCU. Directed by Jake Schreier, the film’s lineup includes fan-favorites like Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), U.S. Agent (Wyatt Russell), and others who have each walked a path riddled with difficult choices and past mistakes. Unlike the Avengers, this group doesn’t embody ideal heroism. Instead, they’re more morally ambiguous, making for an interesting mix of personalities and motives as they’re brought together under government oversight.
The movie is set to explore themes of redemption and loyalty, as each member grapples with their own moral code and reason for joining the team. They’re likely to take on missions deemed too controversial or risky for more traditional heroes, which could introduce a level of conflict and depth to the MCU we haven’t seen before. The Thunderbolts may also create lasting impacts on the MCU, potentially leading to alliances or rivalries with the Avengers, adding a new layer to the overall storyline.
Watch the Thunderbolts Trailer below
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