Captain America: Brave New World marks a new chapter in the Captain America saga with Anthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson finally making his cinematic debut as the titular protagonist. Introduced in the MCU as the superhero Falcon, he graduated to the shield when Steve Rogers retired in Avengers: Endgame. Since then, Falcon got his own TV series with Falcon and the Winter Soldier and now his transformation is complete in the latest MCU film.
Before you watch Captain America: Brave New World, here’s an MCU watchlist that takes you from Wilson’s introduction to his superhero makeovers. We also provide you with all the options to stream these movies online.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
Sam Wilson made his MCU debut in Captain America: The Winter Soldier, where he bonded with Steve Rogers over their shared military backgrounds. As the Falcon, he played a crucial role in aiding Captain America and Black Widow in taking down HYDRA after it infiltrated S.H.I.E.L.D.
This film not only introduced Sam as a loyal ally but also established his strong moral code and commitment to justice. His friendship with Steve would later influence his eventual acceptance of the Captain America mantle.
Captain America: Civil War (2016)
Sam Wilson returned in Captain America: Civil War, standing firmly by Steve Rogers’ side against the Sokovia Accords, which sought to regulate superhero activities under government control. This film was instrumental in showcasing his unwavering loyalty to Steve and his growing friendship with Bucky Barnes.
The film also featured General Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, who pushed for the regulation of superheroes—a policy that will carry over into Brave New World, where Ross has ascended to the U.S. presidency and is looking to shape America’s superhero landscape, potentially bringing him into conflict with Sam Wilson’s Captain America.
Avengers: Endgame (2019)
Steve Rogers’ final act in Avengers: Endgame set the stage for Sam Wilson’s journey to becoming Captain America. After returning the Infinity Stones and choosing to live a peaceful life in an alternate timeline, Steve handed over his iconic shield to Sam, symbolizing his trust in Wilson as his successor.
This emotional passing of the torch was a defining moment for Sam, who was initially reluctant but ultimately accepted his new role.
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021 - Disney+ Series)
This Disney+ series is essential viewing before Brave New World, as it explores Sam’s struggles with accepting the Captain America mantle. The series follows him navigating newfound responsibilities, dealing with racial and political complexities, and confronting John Walker, the government’s choice for the new Captain America.
By the end, Sam fully embraces his new role, complete with an upgraded suit and shield, cementing his status as the new Captain America.
The Incredible Hulk (2008)
While The Incredible Hulk might seem unrelated to Captain America’s story, it is crucial to understanding General Thaddeus Ross, who plays a pivotal role in Brave New World. This film introduces Ross as a government official obsessed with harnessing gamma radiation to create super-soldiers, resulting in the creation of Abomination.
Brave New World sees Ross as the U.S. president, and this time, he will also transform into the Red Hulk. Additionally, Betty Ross and Samuel Sterns (The Leader), both introduced in this film, will return, indicating a deeper government conspiracy involving Hulk-related experiments.
How to watch all pre-Captain America: Brave New World movies streaming online in India
Check out JustWatch’s guide below for the several pre-Brave New World movies that are streaming online in India. We also provide offers to buy, rent, or watch these movies for free (if available). By watching these films and the Disney+ series, you’ll have all the necessary background to fully appreciate the stakes and characters in Captain America: Brave New World.
