Six years after the Avengers disbanded following Thanos' defeat and Tony Stark's death, the world once again requires its mightiest heroes. With new Avengers films slated for 2026 and 2027, the MCU must swiftly reassemble the team. This crucial recruitment process begins in Captain America: Brave New World.
Marvel Studios producer Nate Moore explains the strategic decision to delay the Avengers' return, stating, "We knew if we jumped right back into the Avengers after Endgame, we wouldn't give people a chance to miss it." He emphasizes Captain America's central role in successful Avengers teams, highlighting Sam Wilson's journey from inheriting the shield to becoming a capable leader, a journey explored in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Brave New World sees Wilson, now a confident Captain America, facing the daunting challenge of leading a new Avengers team.
A marketing clip reveals President Ross (Harrison Ford), succeeding the late William Hurt, tasks Wilson with restarting the Avengers initiative. This might surprise fans, considering Ross's role in establishing the Sokovia Accords. Director Julius Onah clarifies Ross's evolution: "The man that we're meeting now is an elder statesman, a diplomat…who sees and understands the errors of his past and wants to do better." Ross's strategic understanding of power motivates his decision to assemble the Avengers under his command.
The film establishes Captain America as an official US government role, making the Avengers a branch of the defense department. Moore explains Ross's motivation: "He certainly realized that the Avengers left unchecked may not be the best idea…and he figures why not do it first before somebody beats me to the punch." However, Ross's interest isn't solely about future film plots; it's also driven by the discovery of Adamantium, a powerful metal from a petrified Celestial, sparking a potential global arms race. Having superheroes on his side provides a significant tactical advantage.
The film explores the complex relationship between Ross and Wilson, highlighting their contrasting views on government control. Onah focuses on Wilson's emotional journey and the palpable tension between him and Ross, given their history surrounding the Sokovia Accords.
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The possibility of John Walker leading a government-sanctioned Avengers team in Thunderbolts is raised, leaving Wilson free to assemble an independent team. Regardless, Brave New World sets the stage for Wilson's evolution into the Avengers leader, emphasizing his empathy as a key strength. Onah and Moore highlight Wilson's journey toward self-belief as Captain America, paving the way for his Avengers leadership. With only two films before Avengers: Doomsday, Wilson's recruitment efforts will likely be featured in Thunderbolts and Fantastic Four: First Steps. The formation of Avengers 2.0 begins here.
