Captain America: Brave New World Revealed as Hulk Sequel

"Captain America: Brave New World" marks the fourth installment in the iconic Marvel franchise, spotlighting Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson as the new Captain America, a role previously held by Chris Evans' Steve Rogers. This film not only continues the Captain America saga within the MCU but also ties up several threads from the early days of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, effectively serving as a sequel to "The Incredible Hulk."

Let's delve into the history of the key MCU characters returning in "Brave New World" and explore why this movie can be considered a continuation of "The Incredible Hulk."

Captain America: Brave New World Debut Trailer Images

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Tim Blake Nelson’s The Leader

"The Incredible Hulk" introduced us to Tim Blake Nelson's character, Samuel Sterns, setting the stage for a formidable villain in the Hulk's universe. Initially an ally to Bruce Banner, played by Edward Norton, Sterns was involved in distant research to cure Banner's condition. Their eventual meeting unveiled Sterns' unethical enthusiasm for their gamma research, hinting at his future transformation.

When Banner was captured, Emil Blonsky coerced Sterns into turning him into another Hulk-like creature. During this chaotic event, Banner's gamma-irradiated blood accidentally entered an open wound on Sterns' forehead, triggering his transformation into The Leader, a super-intelligent adversary to the Hulk. Though this transformation was teased in "The Incredible Hulk," it's only in "Brave New World" that we see its culmination.

Following his initial transformation, Sterns was taken into S.H.I.E.L.D. custody, as detailed in the canon comic "The Avengers Prelude: Fury's Big Week." However, he eventually escaped and now plays a pivotal role in the conspiracy surrounding Captain America and President Ross. While his exact plans remain under wraps, it's speculated that he may be involved in President Ross's transformation into Red Hulk, and possibly the introduction of adamantium into the MCU, which could lead to a global arms race. As The Leader, Sterns' superhuman intelligence poses a significant threat to Captain America and Falcon.

Liv Tyler’s Betty Ross

Alongside The Leader, "Brave New World" also brings back Liv Tyler as Betty Ross, marking her first return to the MCU since "The Incredible Hulk." Betty, originally introduced as Bruce Banner's love interest and a fellow researcher in Project Gamma Pulse, played a crucial role in Banner's transformation into the Hulk. Despite the strained relationship with her father, General Thaddeus Ross, Betty remained dedicated to helping Banner find a cure.

After the events of "The Incredible Hulk," Betty's storyline faded from the MCU, with her last known involvement being her temporary disappearance due to Thanos' snap in "Avengers: Infinity War." Her role in "Brave New World" remains a mystery, but her expertise in gamma research and her familial ties to President Ross could play significant parts in the unfolding narrative. Additionally, fans of the comics know that Betty eventually becomes Red She-Hulk, raising speculation about her potential transformation in the film.

Harrison Ford’s President Ross/Red Hulk

The most evident link to "The Incredible Hulk" is Harrison Ford's portrayal of Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, taking over the role from the late William Hurt. In "The Incredible Hulk," General Ross was the primary antagonist, obsessed with controlling the Hulk after his creation during Project Gamma Pulse. His relentless pursuit led to the emergence of the Abomination, and his failure to capture Banner only fueled his determination.

Ross' journey through the MCU saw him transition from a general to the Secretary of State, pivotal in the creation of the Sokovia Accords in "Captain America: Civil War." His quest to regulate superheroes continued in subsequent films, including "Black Widow" and "Avengers: Infinity War," where he was among those snapped away by Thanos.

In "Brave New World," Ross has ascended to the presidency, driven by public fears of alien threats following "Secret Invasion." Director Julius Onah describes this new Ross as an elder statesman seeking redemption and betterment, attempting to forge a new relationship with the Avengers and reconnect with his estranged daughter, Betty.

However, Ross's transformation into Red Hulk, following an assassination attempt, propels him into the center of a conspiracy involving The Leader and the introduction of adamantium. This transformation and his pursuit of the super-metal for national security purposes set the stage for a high-stakes conflict with Captain America.

Where Is The Hulk in Brave New World?

Despite its strong ties to "The Incredible Hulk," "Brave New World" seems to be missing its titular character. There's no confirmed role for Mark Ruffalo's Bruce Banner, though a cameo isn't out of the question. Given Banner's evolution from a fugitive to a respected Avenger and his merger with Hulk into a single entity, his absence is notable, especially with Ross now as Red Hulk and The Leader's return.

Banner's current storyline, including his family life with She-Hulk and his son Skaar, might explain his absence. Yet, his connection to the characters and events in "Brave New World" makes his potential involvement intriguing. Fans might have to wait until "Avengers: Doomsday" in 2026 to see the full Avengers team in action again.

For more insights into the Marvel Universe's future, check out what's expected from Marvel in 2025 and explore all the Marvel movies and series currently in development.