Captain America: New World Order - (2025)

Release Date: 14 February, 2025
Director: Julius Onah
Starring: Anthony Mackie, Harrison Ford, Carl Lumbly, Danny Ramirez, and Shira Haas

So, I finally made the trek to the cinema to watch Captain America: New World Order. It’s one of those moments when you're like, “Alright, I’m doing this, but let’s be real—I’m probably gonna be in a battle with my bladder for the next two hours because Marvel films always feel like they’re 5 hours long.” But you know me, I’m The Tipsy Critic, and what’s a movie without a couple of cheeky beers? So, I grabbed a few, braved the movie theatre, and prepared myself for a wild ride.

And, spoiler alert: it was a ride. Not an endless ride (thankfully, the film was a manageable 2 hours long), but a solid, action-packed, somewhat introspective ride that got me thinking about a whole lot more than just punching bad guys in the face. Oh, and by the way, I wasn’t mad at it. Seriously—this movie did not disappoint, and it gave us a new Captain America that actually feels... well, earned. But don’t worry, I’ll get to that part in a second.

The Plot: A New Captain America, A New Chapter, A New Weight to Bear

Alright, so here’s the deal. Captain America: New World Order picks up after Avengers: Endgame and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier series, where Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) officially takes on the mantle of Captain America. This is no longer just about shields, super strength, or patriotism—this movie also focuses on the emotional and societal weight of Sam becoming the first Black Captain America.

Let’s not overlook the significance of Sam’s role in this movie. In The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Sam wrestles with the legacy of Steve Rogers, who was a symbol of hope and freedom for many people. But Sam’s Captain America is entering a very different world—one where the idea of a Black man taking on this role is not without its complications. Sam has to deal with not only the pressure of living up to Steve’s legacy but also with the historical weight that comes with being the face of this iconic superhero in modern America.

A key theme in the film is identity, something that Anthony Mackie’s portrayal of Sam Wilson handles with nuance. The movie brings a reflection of society through Sam’s eyes, showcasing how his journey as Captain America goes beyond saving the world from villains—it’s about navigating the responsibility, trust, and the symbolism of the shield itself.

Anthony Mackie: The New Captain, The New Man

Let’s talk about Anthony Mackie, because—let’s be real—he carries the movie on his back like that shiny new vibranium shield. Now, Mackie’s been playing Sam Wilson for quite a while, and New World Order is where we really see him come into his own as Captain America. Mackie is no stranger to this role, but here he truly feels like he earned it.

What’s interesting is that Mackie’s Sam is not just a superhero—he’s a man deeply reflective of the times he’s in. This Captain America is very much a man grappling with a responsibility that’s bigger than just saving the world—it’s about what it means for a Black man to embody the symbol of freedom, heroism, and leadership. The film doesn’t shy away from exploring the emotional burden Sam faces, from grappling with self-doubt to confronting a world that doesn’t always recognize his value.

There’s a powerful moment towards the end where Sam addresses the weight on his shoulders—and I’m not just talking about that iconic shield. The movie really dives deep into the struggles of stepping into those boots. It’s a beautifully layered performance by Mackie, one that brings a mix of emotional depth and strength to a character we all know and love. This Captain America isn’t just about smashing bad guys—it’s about what it means to carry such a symbol in today’s world.

Harrison Ford: The Legend Returns (Sort Of)

Let’s talk about Harrison Ford. Now, when I saw his name on the cast list, I had high expectations. The man is an icon—he’s Han Solo, he’s Indiana Jones, he’s the dude who’s been fighting evil forces for decades. So, naturally, when he enters the MCU as Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, I was expecting a huge role with some explosive scenes. But here’s the thing—his character’s screen time is relatively minimal compared to the expectations. Ford does a great job of bringing gravitas to his role, but his presence isn’t as dominating as I thought it would be. This is still very much Sam’s movie, and Ford serves as a secondary figure with a key role in building up future narratives.

Interestingly, Ford’s casting as Thunderbolt Ross marks a new chapter for the character. In the comics, Ross becomes the Red Hulk—so the door is wide open for that transformation to be explored in the future of the MCU. While Ford is still very much a supporting character here, his inclusion is significant for the larger storyline, especially as we move into the Thunderbolts movie slated for 2024.

Joaquín Torres: The Future MCU Star

Here’s where I really get excited: Joaquín Torres, played by Danny Ramirez. If you haven’t noticed, Marvel’s been quietly setting up this character for bigger things. Torres, who served as a sidekick to Sam in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, is definitely being groomed for a more prominent role in future MCU movies. He even gets his own Falcon-like suit toward the end of New World Order, which, let’s face it, is a pretty big deal.

With Marvel laying the groundwork for the Young Avengers and Thunderbolts, I wouldn’t be surprised if Torres gets a bigger role in upcoming phases of the MCU. In New World Order, he provides much-needed comedic relief and charm, but I also wouldn’t be shocked to see him step into more heroic shoes soon. He’s a great character, and Ramirez brings a lot of energy to him.

Isaiah Bradley: The Forgotten Hero You Can’t Help But Love

Let’s talk about Isaiah Bradley, the hero who should’ve had his own movie, his own TV series, and probably a statue somewhere in Washington—but nope, just left to rot. If you don’t know Isaiah by now, what are you even doing with your life? Seriously, wake up! This guy was experimented on, tortured, and thrown away like yesterday’s leftover pizza—and here I am, with a soft spot for him that could probably rival Sam Wilson’s affection for his vibranium shield.

I first got clued into Isaiah in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, and let me tell you, I wasn’t ready for the emotional wreckage that followed. The guy’s been through more than a Marvel villain, yet he carries himself with so much quiet dignity, you’d want to give him a hug, a coffee, and a 10-part Netflix series. One of the most gut-punching moments is when Sam learns about Isaiah’s painful history—seriously, if you didn’t shed a tear there, are you even human? Add some epic fight scenes into the mix, and you’ve got a hero who can throw down and still make you want to buy him a drink after.

The dynamic between Isaiah and Sam is chef’s kiss. It's not just hero buddy vibes—no, this is a bond forged in shared trauma and unspoken respect. Sam looks up to Isaiah like a dad who actually teaches you something important, and not just how to change a tire or how to make bad life decisions. Their on-screen relationship gives me all the feels, and it’s clear Isaiah has more wisdom in his pinky finger than half the MCU characters combined.

Isaiah Bradley: proof that even when the world forgets you, you’re still the hero. And honestly, someone give that man a damn medal. Or at least a solid backstory movie.

The Story: New Material, New Problems

Now, here’s the part that had me scratching my head. There's a new material that’s stronger than Vibranium, and it’s from—wait for it—Japan. Yeah, you heard that right. Wakanda, which has been the only known source of Vibranium for years, is suddenly outdone by Japan’s new discovery. This new material, called Kurozium, is far stronger than Vibranium, and it’s a key plot point in the movie.

While I get that the MCU is all about introducing fresh concepts (and let’s be honest, they have to top their last big threat), this sudden appearance of a “new and improved material” feels a little forced. Wakanda’s been built on its Vibranium resources—so, the question remains: does this new material feel like a natural plot development, or is it just the next big thing Marvel is adding to expand the universe?

What makes Kurozium particularly interesting is its origin—it's a rare material discovered deep in the caves of Japan, where an ancient race had hidden it for centuries. It's not just stronger than Vibranium; it's also more malleable and can be used in ways that Vibranium can’t, making it a huge player in the power dynamics of the MCU. But the introduction of Kurozium could very well raise questions about how this material impacts the balance of power, especially with nations like Wakanda having relied on Vibranium for so long. This material could be a game-changer in more ways than one, and its role is likely to expand in future MCU films.

The Unseen: Samuel Sterns and the Forgotten

Now, here’s the part that had me even more intrigued—remember Samuel Sterns? Yeah, the guy who was left to rot in the background of The Incredible Hulk (2008)? Well, I was not expecting to see him make a return in New World Order, but he’s back, and let me tell you, it’s a huge deal. The film briefly hints at Sterns’ involvement in some shadowy activities, and there’s a subtle setup that he’s been working on a mysterious project involving Kurozium. In the comics, Sterns eventually becomes the villain The Leader, a super-intelligent adversary with telepathic abilities, and the fact that his character is coming back into the fold makes me think that his role in future MCU films will be far more significant. Could he be involved in the development of Kurozium? Is he secretly plotting his own rise to power? Only time will tell, but I’m definitely keeping an eye on him.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Your Time?

So, here’s the verdict: Captain America: New World Order is a solid entry into the MCU. It’s a perfectly crafted transition for Sam Wilson into his new role as Captain America, and Anthony Mackie gives a masterful performance. You get a good mix of action, depth, and heart, while still maintaining the fast-paced fun of a Marvel flick. Plus, you can’t go wrong with all that emotional weight—literally and figuratively.

While the introduction of Kurozium may raise a few eyebrows, it also opens the door for some fascinating developments in the MCU’s future. And let’s not forget the lingering question about Samuel Sterns—who knows what he’s been up to, but I bet it’ll be important down the road.

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7 out of 10 stars)

So, yeah, it’s a bit of a refreshing change of pace for Marvel. The movie doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it does explore important themes about identity, responsibility, and legacy—while still delivering enough action to keep you engaged. Just don’t expect to get all the answers (like about that new mysterious material)—but that’s okay. Marvel’s already got the next movie in line to drop those secrets.

Now, grab your drink and hit play. You’ll be cheering for Sam Wilson in no time, but you’ll also be thinking deeply about what it means to hold the shield in the first place. Marvel, y’all...