Captain America: Brave New World, the fourth installment in the Marvel franchise and the first starring Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson, unexpectedly serves as a sequel to The Incredible Hulk. This isn't just a continuation of the Captain America storyline; it significantly revisits characters and plot threads from the earlier film.
Captain America: Brave New World Debut Trailer Images
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Tim Blake Nelson's The Leader:
The Incredible Hulk introduced Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns, whose transformation into The Leader is finally realized in Brave New World. Initially an ally to Bruce Banner, Sterns' ambition and unethical experimentation with gamma-irradiated blood led to his transformation after exposure to Banner's blood. This storyline, previously hinted at, now takes center stage. The Avengers Prelude: Fury’s Big Week comic reveals Sterns' capture by S.H.I.E.L.D., his subsequent escape, and his involvement in the conspiracy surrounding Captain America and President Ross. His potential role in Ross's transformation into Red Hulk and his interest in adamantium, a newly introduced MCU element, remain key mysteries.
Liv Tyler's Betty Ross:
Liv Tyler returns as Betty Ross, Bruce Banner's former love interest and daughter of President Ross. Their relationship, strained by Ross's obsession with Banner, and Betty's involvement in Project Gamma Pulse are revisited. Her role in Brave New World remains undisclosed, though her expertise in gamma radiation and the possibility of her becoming Red She-Hulk are intriguing possibilities.
Harrison Ford's President Ross/Red Hulk:
Harrison Ford's portrayal of Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, taking over from William Hurt, is central to Brave New World. Ross's history of antagonism towards Banner and his pursuit of controlling the Hulk are revisited. His transformation into Red Hulk, a significant plot point, is a key element of the film. His election as President of the United States, following the events of Secret Invasion, and his attempt to reconcile with Sam Wilson while secretly becoming Red Hulk, create a complex narrative arc. His pursuit of adamantium adds another layer of intrigue.
The Absence of the Hulk:
The primary difference between Brave New World and a direct Incredible Hulk sequel is the absence of Bruce Banner/Hulk. While his inclusion isn't entirely ruled out, his current involvement with a growing Hulk family (including Jen Walters and Skaar) may explain his absence. His potential cameo or a post-credits scene remains a possibility.
A poll asking whether Mark Ruffalo's Hulk will appear in the film is included. The article concludes by suggesting that a full-fledged Avengers reunion may be necessary to address the complex situation presented in Brave New World.
