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 quasi-sequel to The Incredible Hulk. This isn't just a continuation of the Captain America storyline; it directly addresses unresolved plot threads from the earlier film.
The film's connection to The Incredible Hulk is evident through the return of several key characters:
Key Returning Characters and Their Connections to The Incredible Hulk
Tim Blake Nelson's The Leader: The Incredible Hulk introduced Samuel Sterns, an associate of Bruce Banner who inadvertently becomes The Leader after exposure to Banner's gamma-irradiated blood. Brave New World finally reveals Sterns' transformation and his role in a conspiracy involving Captain America and President Ross. His potential involvement in Ross's transformation into Red Hulk and his possible interest in adamantium (a new element introduced in Brave New World) are significant plot points. The canon comic, The Avengers Prelude: Fury’s Big Week, explains Sterns' time in S.H.I.E.L.D. custody before his escape.
Liv Tyler's Betty Ross: Betty Ross, Bruce Banner's former love interest and daughter of Thunderbolt Ross, returns after a long absence. Her past involvement in Project Gamma Pulse and her complex relationship with her father are crucial to understanding her role in Brave New World. Her expertise in gamma research and the possibility of her becoming Red She-Hulk (as in the comics) add intrigue.
Harrison Ford's President Ross/Red Hulk: The most significant link is the return of Thunderbolt Ross, now President of the United States, played by Harrison Ford. His history with Bruce Banner, his role in creating the Abomination, and his ambition to control the Hulk are central to the plot. Brave New World depicts Ross's transformation into Red Hulk, a pivotal event mirroring the comic book storyline. Director Julius Onah highlights Ross's character arc, portraying him as an elder statesman seeking reconciliation with his daughter and cooperation with the Avengers.
The Absence of the Hulk: The only major difference between Brave New World and a true Incredible Hulk 2 is the absence of Bruce Banner/Hulk. While his presence isn't confirmed, the film's plot points strongly suggest his involvement would be logical, given his connection to the returning characters and the ongoing threats. His absence might be explained by his involvement with his family of Hulks (Jen Walters and Skaar) or other off-world commitments.
The introduction of adamantium as a new super-metal further fuels the geopolitical intrigue, adding another layer to the already complex narrative. The film's title, Brave New World, reflects the technological advancements and their potential consequences.
Ultimately, Captain America: Brave New World serves as a long-awaited sequel to The Incredible Hulk, reintroducing key characters and resolving long-standing plot threads within the broader MCU narrative. The absence of Hulk himself leaves room for speculation and anticipation for future appearances.
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