"Captain America: Brave New World" marks the fourth installment in the iconic Marvel franchise and introduces Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson as the new Captain America, stepping into the shoes previously filled by Chris Evans' Steve Rogers. However, this film is not just about continuing the Captain America narrative; it's also deeply connected to one of the earliest MCU entries, effectively serving as a sequel to "The Incredible Hulk."
The movie brings back key characters from "The Incredible Hulk," including Harrison Ford as Thunderbolt Ross, Tim Blake Nelson as The Leader, and Liv Tyler reprising her role as Betty Ross. Let's delve into the histories of these characters and explore why "Brave New World" can be considered a sequel to "The Incredible Hulk" in all but name.
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Tim Blake Nelson’s The Leader
"The Incredible Hulk" set the stage for the emergence of a formidable adversary with the introduction of Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns, a character whose full potential is finally realized in "Brave New World." In the earlier film, Sterns collaborates remotely with Edward Norton's Bruce Banner to develop a cure for the Hulk. Their eventual meeting reveals Sterns' overzealous nature in experimenting with Banner's gamma-irradiated blood, hinting at his lack of ethical boundaries—a clear foreshadowing of his darker transformation.
Following Banner's arrest, Emil Blonsky coerces Sterns into transforming him into another Hulk-like being. During this process, Sterns suffers an injury that leads to his exposure to Banner's blood, initiating his transformation into The Leader. Although this transformation was teased in "The Incredible Hulk," it's only now, in "Brave New World," that the MCU picks up this storyline.
According to the MCU canon comic "The Avengers Prelude: Fury's Big Week," Sterns was taken into S.H.I.E.L.D. custody by Black Widow. However, he has since escaped and now plays a pivotal role in the conspiracy involving Captain America and President Ross. While details about his role are scarce, it's speculated that Sterns may be linked to Ross's transformation into Red Hulk, mirroring the comics. Additionally, with the introduction of adamantium in "Brave New World," Sterns, now superhumanly intelligent as The Leader, might exploit the ensuing global arms race to his advantage, posing a significant threat to Captain America and Falcon.
Liv Tyler’s Betty Ross ----------------------Alongside The Leader, Liv Tyler's Betty Ross also returns to the MCU after a long hiatus. Originally introduced in "The Incredible Hulk," Betty and Bruce Banner met and fell in love during their college years. She played a crucial role in Project Gamma Pulse, creating the primer that allowed Banner to survive his transformation into the Hulk. Her relationship with her father, General Ross, became strained due to his obsession with capturing Banner.
By the time of "The Incredible Hulk," Betty had moved on with Dr. Leonard Samson, but her loyalty to Banner remained strong. She assisted him in his quest for a cure, despite the opposition from her father. After Banner resumed his fugitive life, Betty disappeared from the MCU until she was briefly mentioned as being among those affected by Thanos' snap in "Avengers: Infinity War."
In "Brave New World," Betty's role remains a mystery, as she has been absent from the film's marketing. Her return raises questions about her relationship with her father, now President Ross, and whether her gamma research expertise will be utilized. In the comics, Betty becomes Red She-Hulk, sparking speculation about her potential transformation in this film.
Harrison Ford’s President Ross/Red Hulk ---------------------------------------The most compelling evidence that "Brave New World" is a sequel to "The Incredible Hulk" is the central role of Harrison Ford's Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross. Ford steps into the role previously played by William Hurt, who first portrayed Ross in "The Incredible Hulk." Initially a general overseeing Project Gamma Pulse, Ross sought to recreate the Super Soldier Serum, leading to Banner's transformation into the Hulk.
Ross's relentless pursuit of Banner strained his relationship with Betty and led to the creation of the Abomination. His failure to capture Banner and the subsequent encounter with Tony Stark hinted at his future involvement with the Avengers. Ross's character evolved over the years, from Secretary of Defense in "Captain America: Civil War," where he enforced the Sokovia Accords, to his role in "Black Widow" and his brief appearance in "Avengers: Infinity War" and "Endgame."
In "Brave New World," Ross has become the President of the United States, elected in the wake of the events of "Secret Invasion." Director Julius Onah describes this new Ross as an elder statesman attempting to make amends for past mistakes and reconnect with his estranged daughter. His journey parallels Sam Wilson's as he tries to redefine himself as Captain America.
The film's plot thickens when Ross survives an assassination attempt and transforms into Red Hulk, a nod to his comic book counterpart. His transformation is likely tied to The Leader's machinations and the introduction of adamantium, a new super-metal that could have significant geopolitical implications. Ross's dual role as President and Red Hulk sets the stage for a complex narrative involving national security and personal redemption.
Where Is The Hulk in Brave New World? -------------------------------------Despite its strong ties to "The Incredible Hulk," "Brave New World" notably lacks the presence of Mark Ruffalo's Bruce Banner. Since the events of "The Incredible Hulk," Banner has evolved significantly within the MCU, merging with his Hulk persona to become a respected member of the Avengers. His journey through "Thor: Ragnarok," "Avengers: Infinity War," and "Endgame" showcased his growth and control over his gamma side.
Given his history with Ross and The Leader, it would seem logical for Banner to be involved in "Brave New World." However, there's no indication that he will have a significant role, though a cameo or post-credits scene remains possible. Banner's current focus might be on his new family of Hulks, including his cousin Jen Walters (She-Hulk) and his son Skaar, which could explain his absence from this film.
As "Captain America: Brave New World" unfolds, fans will be eager to see how Sam Wilson navigates the complex web of conspiracies and power struggles, all while facing off against a transformed President Ross. Whether or not Hulk makes an appearance, the film promises to be a thrilling continuation of the MCU's expansive universe.
