“Captain America: Brave New World” is the latest installment in Phase Five of Marvel Studios’ Multiverse Saga, which hit theaters on February 14.

This film follows Sam Wilson as he enters his new role as Captain America, navigating an international conflict between the United States and Japan over a newly discovered metal. At the same time, he must battle with the shocking revelation that U.S. President Thaddeus Ross can turn into a red Hulk.

Although this movie stands on its own, it builds upon the events of the 2021 series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. This show explored Sam Wilson’s journey alongside Bucky Barnes as they fight the threat of Flag Smashers, a resistance group made up of super soldiers, that believed the world was better during the “blip”. In addition to the main plot this series also tackled Sam grappling with the consequences of giving up Steve Rogers’ shield, as it is handed to John Walker instead, appointed by the U.S. government to be the new Captain America.

I found “Captain America: Brave New World” entertaining from start to finish. The film never had a dull moment and did an amazing job of establishing Sam Wilson’s identity as Captain America, setting him apart from John Walker’s portrayal in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. The subplot involving Sam seeking justice for Isaiah Bradley also tied the series back into the film. Further, it established the seamless world-building that Marvel is known for.

Beyond the storytelling, the movie was well-crafted in humor and cinematography. One standout moment comes when President Ross makes a phone call to his daughter, reminiscing about their childhood walks through the cherry blossoms. This seemingly small detail beautifully foreshadows the climactic final battle between Captain America and Ross as the Red Hulk. Another one of my favorite parts of the movie that added to the whole experience was the humor. The dynamic between Sam Wilson and Lieutenant Joaquin Torres carries the film and keeps the audience entertained along with all the action.

Overall, I enjoyed the film. It was refreshing to see a Marvel movie that didn’t rely heavily on the multiverse and instead had the feel of a classic, grounded MCU story. “Captain America: Brave New World” not only delivers action and emotion but also reaffirms why Sam Wilson is the right person to carry the shield forward.