Don’t Miss These Must-Watch MCU Movies Before Captain America: Brave New World!

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Viewing a fresh Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movie is always a significant occasion, filled with anticipation for possible cameos, post-credit scenes, and new character debuts. But before diving into the excitement about what’s to come, it’s crucial to glance back at the MCU’s past to identify which projects are worth revisiting prior to your theater visit. The challenge lies in keeping up with who appears where and which shows and films are vital for understanding the ongoing narrative. Even movies like “Captain America: Brave New World,” which may seem straightforward, have numerous references that don’t make sense without catching a few related projects along the way.

Although the stage performance of “Brave New World” has concluded, the film can now be streamed on Disney+ for a wider viewership to enjoy. Yet, their experience won’t be as rewarding unless they catch up with the Marvel Cinematic Universe projects listed beforehand.

1) Avengers: Endgame

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Sam Wilson’s character development unfolds well before “Avengers: Endgame,” yet this movie provides crucial insights into his values. Resurrected from being turned to dust, he rushes to assist the Avengers during the Battle of Earth and even utters Captain America’s famous phrase, “On your left.” However, Sam’s most significant moment in “Endgame” transpires post-battle.

With the Infinity Stones remaining within the Sacred Timeline, Steve embarks on a lone journey to restore them. As Steve sets off, Sam is there to see him go, but becomes worried when Captain America doesn’t reappear at the expected time. Eventually, Steve decides to travel back in time and stay with Peggy, returning years later as an elderly man. In his old age, he passes his shield to Sam, who vows to uphold its legacy effectively.

2) The Falcon and the Winter Soldier

Shortly following the incidents depicted in “Endgame”, Sam relinquishes the shield to the American government in “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier”, feeling unworthy to hold it. John Walker then assumes the role of Captain America, leading Bucky Barnes to take action as he’s concerned about the name being tarnished. Additionally, both Sam and Bucky must contend with a troupe of super-soldiers who are wreaking havoc globally.

Throughout the entire series, I grapple with the responsibilities and implications of being Captain America, and I uncover some harsh truths about how the government treats African Americans who wear the stars and stripes. But in the final episode, I make a decisive choice that lays the groundwork for my first standalone film.

3) Eternals

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) appears to have moved on from The Eternals, as if it never happened, despite its release introducing a fresh lineup of characters. In contrast, the storyline of Brave New World gives significant attention to the finale of Eternals.

In the finale of Eternals, Sersi and her team find themselves battling against Ikaris, who wishes to let a Celestial named Tiamut the Communicator destroy Earth. Despite their efforts, they manage to save the planet, but there are lingering effects; the body of the Celestial ends up settling in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

4) The Incredible Hulk

After Edward Norton’s replacement, “The Incredible Hulk” has often been seen as an outlier in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The only gesture towards it was the reappearance of William Hurt’s Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross in “Captain America: Civil War”. Yet, “Brave New World” breaks this pattern by making the happenings of “The Incredible Hulk” relevant to its plot.

In the novel “Brave New World,” the two primary antagonists were initially introduced in “The Incredible Hulk.” These characters’ past serves as a key foundation for the danger that Captain America encounters. Though it might seem unusual, revisiting a Phase One Marvel Cinematic Universe film before the fourth Captain America movie is essential viewing.

Captain America: Brave New World is streaming on Disney+.

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2025-05-30 00:42