Navigating the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe can sometimes feel like a mission worthy of Captain America himself. With new heroes stepping into iconic roles and storylines unfolding across multiple series and films, keeping track of every detail, especially when it comes to the latest cinematic adventures, is key. And few adventures are as anticipated as Sam Wilson’s return as the Sentinel of Liberty. If you're looking for everything you need to know about Captain America: Brave New World Release Dates & Showtimes, you've come to the right place.
This isn't just a simple rundown; consider this your comprehensive intel brief on Sam Wilson's monumental first solo outing as Captain America. We'll dive into when and how you can catch this pivotal MCU film, what makes it a must-see, and all the behind-the-scenes details that shape its place in the Marvel saga.
At a Glance: Captain America: Brave New World Quick Facts
- Who's Captain America? Anthony Mackie reprises his role as Sam Wilson, fully embracing the shield.
- What's the Plot? Sam Wilson investigates a conspiracy involving U.S. President Thaddeus Ross, uncovering a mind-control plot and facing the emergence of the Red Hulk.
- When Did It Release? U.S. theatrical release on February 14, 2025.
- Who's Directing? Julius Onah.
- Key Cast? Anthony Mackie, Harrison Ford (as Thaddeus Ross/Red Hulk), Danny Ramirez, Tim Blake Nelson, Liv Tyler, Carl Lumbly, Shira Haas, and Giancarlo Esposito.
- MCU Significance? The 35th film in the MCU, part of Phase Five, and a direct continuation of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.
- Tone? Touted as a grounded thriller, drawing comparisons to Captain America: The Winter Soldier.
The New Cap's Next Chapter: Unpacking "Brave New World"
The shield has been passed, and the mantle of Captain America now firmly rests on Sam Wilson's shoulders. Following the compelling events of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier miniseries, Captain America: Brave New World serves as the crucial next step in his journey, not just for Sam, but for the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe. This film isn't merely another superhero movie; it's a statement, exploring what it means to be Captain America in a world grappling with new threats, political intrigue, and evolving moral complexities.
Fans have eagerly awaited Sam's full transition into the role, and this movie delivers on that promise, placing him at the center of a high-stakes conspiracy that cuts to the very heart of American power and its vulnerabilities. This shift in protagonist brings a fresh perspective to the iconic hero, emphasizing leadership, diplomacy, and the burden of legacy in equal measure to his incredible aerial combat skills.
When Did Captain America: Brave New World Hit Theaters?
Timing is everything in the MCU, and Captain America: Brave New World made its debut strategically within Phase Five, signaling a new era for Earth's Mightiest Heroes. The film officially premiered on February 11, 2025, before rolling out across U.S. theaters for its wider release on February 14, 2025.
Yes, that's right – a Valentine's Day release! Whether you opted for a superhero-themed date night or gathered your fellow Marvel enthusiasts, this mid-February slot cemented its position as a major cinematic event early in the year. Being the 35th film in the MCU, it carried the weight of a rich narrative history while carving out its own distinct path for the future. For those who want to relive the action or catch it for the first time, keeping an eye on where to purchase Get Brave New World tickets will ensure you don't miss out.
Finding Showtimes for Captain America: Brave New World
So, you're ready to experience Sam Wilson's Captain America in action, or perhaps you want to catch a re-release? Finding showtimes for a major Marvel film like Captain America: Brave New World is usually straightforward, but a few tips can ensure you snag the best seats at your preferred cinema.
Your Go-To Sources for Showtimes:
- Online Ticketing Platforms: Websites like Fandango, Atom Tickets, or Movietickets.com are your best friends. Simply type in "Captain America: Brave New World" and your location, and they'll pull up all available showtimes at nearby theaters.
- Local Cinema Websites: Many cineplexes (AMC, Regal, Cinemark, etc.) have their own dedicated websites. If you have a favorite local theater, checking their specific site directly can be useful, especially for special screenings or discounted days.
- Search Engines: A quick Google search for "Captain America: Brave New World showtimes near me" will often yield real-time results directly in the search page, complete with links to purchase tickets.
- Mobile Apps: Most major ticketing platforms and cinema chains have user-friendly apps that allow you to browse showtimes, watch trailers, and buy tickets directly from your smartphone.
Showtimes Evolve: What to Expect Over a Film's Run
Remember that showtimes aren't static. When a blockbuster like Captain America: Brave New World first launches, you'll find a plethora of screenings throughout the day, often across multiple screens in a single cinema. As the weeks pass, the number of showtimes might decrease, eventually moving to fewer slots or even discount theaters before its digital and home video release. For any Marvel fan, staying informed about ticket availability is always a smart move to ensure you experience the film on the big screen.
If you're looking to re-watch or catch it later in its theatrical run, you might need to be more flexible with your viewing schedule or check a wider range of cinemas. Keep an eye out for any special promotions or re-release events that cinemas might host down the line.
Behind the Shield: What to Expect from the Story
At its core, Captain America: Brave New World is a taut political thriller cloaked in superhero spectacle. The narrative thrust places Sam Wilson, now fully committed to the Captain America role, squarely in the middle of a national crisis involving U.S. President Thaddeus Ross, a character with a long, complicated history in the MCU.
The Core Conspiracy: Adamantium, Mind Control, and Old Grudges
The story kicks off five months into Thaddeus Ross's presidency. Captain America (Sam Wilson) and Joaquin Torres (now operating as Falcon) are tasked with recovering stolen samples of adamantium – a brand-new, incredibly strong metal discovered on "Celestial Island." This mission, however, quickly unravels into something far more sinister. They uncover a sophisticated mind-control plot orchestrated by none other than Dr. Samuel Sterns, known to comic fans as the Leader. Sterns, who gained advanced intelligence from Bruce Banner's blood (a callback to The Incredible Hulk), seeks revenge on Ross, setting the stage for a deeply personal and dangerous confrontation.
The stakes escalate dramatically as it's revealed that President Ross himself is secretly dying, prolonging his life using gamma-radiation pills provided by Sterns. During a high-profile public press conference, Ross undergoes a shocking transformation, becoming the monstrous Red Hulk. This pivotal moment unleashes a new level of threat and spectacle, forcing Sam to confront not just a superpowered adversary, but a former ally and the very institution he's sworn to protect.
Resolution and Repercussions
In a true testament to Captain America's ethos, Sam Wilson doesn't just defeat Ross; he manages to reason with him, appealing to the humanity that still exists within the transformed president. Following this dramatic encounter, Ross resigns from office and is subsequently incarcerated. The film ties up several loose ends while setting up future possibilities:
- Isaiah Bradley is exonerated, a powerful moment recognizing his past sacrifices and injustices.
- Joaquin Torres is invited to join the Avengers, hinting at his expanded role in the MCU's future.
- The adamantium treaty is ratified, securing control over this potent new resource.
A chilling post-credits scene leaves audiences with a crucial warning: Dr. Sterns, ever the puppet master, cautions Wilson about impending attacks from "other worlds," ensuring that the threats to global security are far from over for the new Captain America.
A Grounded Thriller: Echoes of The Winter Soldier
Much like its predecessor, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Brave New World aimed for a "grounded thriller" tone. It delves into themes of political corruption, government conspiracies, and the moral ambiguities heroes face, rather than purely focusing on cosmic threats. This approach allows the film to explore the human element of Sam Wilson's Captain America, showcasing his strategic thinking, his commitment to justice, and his struggle with the complex realities of modern heroism. The blend of high-octane action with intelligent espionage makes it a compelling watch for those who appreciate the MCU's more nuanced storytelling.
The Star-Spangled Cast: Who's Who in "Brave New World"
A pillar of any successful MCU film is its cast, and Captain America: Brave New World assembled a formidable ensemble, blending beloved returning characters with exciting new additions. Their performances bring depth and authenticity to Sam Wilson's challenging journey.
The Core Team:
- Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson / Captain America: The undeniable heart of the film. Mackie fully embodies the weight and responsibility of the shield, portraying a Captain America who leads with integrity, compassion, and a grounded realism. His portrayal is a natural continuation of his arc from The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.
- Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres / Falcon: Torres steps up as Sam's loyal partner, taking on the mantle of Falcon. Ramirez brings a youthful energy and technological savvy to the role, providing crucial support to Cap and hinting at his own heroic future.
- Harrison Ford as Thaddeus Ross / Red Hulk: A monumental casting choice, Ford delivers a powerful performance as the U.S. President. His portrayal of Ross, who secretly battles a terminal illness and undergoes a terrifying transformation into the Red Hulk, adds immense gravitas and a tragic dimension to the character. His presence alone elevates the film's dramatic stakes.
Villains and Allies:
- Tim Blake Nelson as Dr. Samuel Sterns: Reprising his role from The Incredible Hulk, Nelson's Sterns is the brilliant, vengeful mastermind behind the mind-control plot. His intellectual threat and personal vendetta against Ross make him a formidable antagonist.
- Liv Tyler as Betty Ross: Also returning from The Incredible Hulk, Tyler's presence as Thaddeus Ross's daughter adds a poignant emotional layer, exploring her complex relationship with her father amidst his transformation.
- Carl Lumbly as Isaiah Bradley: Lumbly continues to portray the elder Super Soldier, whose past experiences provide Sam with a powerful historical context and moral compass. His exoneration is a deeply resonant moment.
- Shira Haas as Ruth Bat-Seraph: A new character adapted from the comics' Sabra, Ruth is introduced as a former Black Widow from Israel. Haas brings a hardened yet complex persona to this character, navigating her unique skills and background within the unfolding conspiracy. The character was carefully adapted to address previous criticisms of her comic book portrayal.
- Giancarlo Esposito as Seth Voelker / Sidewinder: Known for his intense and captivating performances, Esposito joins the MCU as the leader of the Serpent Society, a criminal organization. His inclusion, specifically added during extensive reshoots, underscores the film's commitment to adding layers of villainy and intrigue.
- Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes (Uncredited Cameo): Though brief, Bucky's appearance is a nod to his enduring friendship with Sam and his past connection to the Captain America legacy, providing a comforting, familiar face for fans.
The dynamic interplay between these characters, particularly the nuanced relationship between Sam and Ross, drives the film's narrative and elevates its emotional impact.
From Script to Screen: The Making of "Brave New World"
The journey of Captain America: Brave New World to the big screen was one filled with evolution, creative decisions, and the meticulous crafting typical of Marvel Studios productions. From its initial conception to extensive reshoots, the team worked to ensure a compelling and impactful cinematic experience.
The Genesis and Title Transformation:
Development for the film began back in April 2021, with Malcolm Spellman and Dalan Musson, key writers from The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, taking on screenplay duties. Julius Onah, known for his work on Luce and The Cloverfield Paradox, joined as director in July 2022, bringing his distinct vision to the project.
Initially, the film bore the title Captain America: New World Order. However, in June 2023, Marvel Studios made the strategic decision to change the title to Captain America: Brave New World. This change was prompted by the controversial real-world connotations associated with the phrase "New World Order," ensuring the film's message remained clear and free from unintended political interpretations. The chosen title, "Brave New World," subtly hints at the challenges and uncharted territory Sam Wilson must navigate as Captain America.
Production and Reshoots: A Marvel Standard
Principal photography took place from March to June 2023, primarily at Trilith Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, with additional shooting locations in Washington, D.C., adding an authentic backdrop to the political thriller elements.
However, like many large-scale productions, especially within the MCU, Brave New World underwent extensive reshoots. These additional filming sessions, which occurred between May and November 2024, are a common practice in modern filmmaking, allowing studios to refine storylines, enhance action sequences, and improve overall pacing. Notably, Matthew Orton was brought in to write additional material, and the character of Seth Voelker/Sidewinder, played by Giancarlo Esposito, was specifically introduced during these reshoots, indicating a significant narrative adjustment or enhancement. This iterative process is crucial for Marvel to ensure their interconnected narratives flow seamlessly.
Creative Direction and Character Adaptation:
Director Julius Onah and the creative team aimed for a grounded thriller tone, intentionally drawing comparisons to the critical and commercial success of Captain America: The Winter Soldier. This meant a focus on realistic stakes, intricate conspiracies, and visceral action sequences that put Sam Wilson's capabilities to the test in a more tangible way.
A particular point of careful consideration was the adaptation of the character Sabra into Ruth Bat-Seraph. Recognizing previous criticisms of the comic book character's portrayal, the film's creators reimagined her as a first-generation Israeli former Black Widow, ensuring a more thoughtful and nuanced representation on screen. This reflects Marvel's ongoing commitment to evolving their characters for a contemporary global audience.
The Soundtrack of a Hero: Music in Brave New World
Beyond the compelling narrative and stunning visuals, the score and soundtrack of Captain America: Brave New World play a vital role in shaping its emotional landscape and driving the story forward. Music in the MCU is never just background noise; it's an integral part of the storytelling.
Laura Karpman's Score: New Themes for a New Era
Laura Karpman, a highly acclaimed composer, took the helm for the film's score. She crafted a dynamic and evocative soundscape that resonates with the film's grounded thriller tone while also celebrating its heroic elements. Karpman’s contributions included:
- New Heroic Themes: She developed fresh, inspiring themes specifically for Sam Wilson as Captain America, Joaquin Torres as Falcon, and Isaiah Bradley. These themes underscore their individual journeys and collective impact, giving each character a distinct musical identity.
- Evolving Piano Theme for Ross: A particularly poignant element of the score is an evolving piano theme for Thaddeus Ross. This musical motif subtly tracks his internal struggle and tragic transformation, adding layers of pathos to Harrison Ford's performance as the Red Hulk.
- Academy Award Recognition: Karpman's exceptional work did not go unnoticed, as her score was shortlisted for the Academy Award for Best Original Score, a testament to its quality and impact.
Curated Musical Cues: More Than Just Background
The film also expertly weaves in existing songs to enhance specific plot points and emotional beats:
- "Mr. Blue" by The Fleetwoods (1959): This classic 1959 song serves a crucial narrative function. It acts as a mind-control trigger, directly referencing Dr. Samuel Sterns's alias. The juxtaposition of the seemingly innocuous oldie with its sinister purpose adds a chilling layer to Sterns's manipulative plot.
- "I" by Kendrick Lamar (2014): A powerful and uplifting track from Kendrick Lamar's 2014 album plays over the end credits. Its message of self-love and resilience provides a fitting capstone to Sam Wilson's journey, emphasizing his strength and self-belief as the new Captain America.
The thoughtful integration of both original score and popular music elevates Brave New World, making its auditory experience as rich and engaging as its visual storytelling.
Box Office Battle: How Did Brave New World Perform?
The theatrical performance of any major MCU film is always a topic of intense discussion, and Captain America: Brave New World was no exception. While it made a significant impact, its box office journey came with its own set of challenges and reflections.
The film officially grossed $415.1 million worldwide. Breaking that down:
- U.S. and Canada: $200.5 million
- Internationally: $214.6 million
Against a reported production budget of $180 million, the film unfortunately fell short of its estimated $425 million break-even point. This means that after factoring in marketing costs and theater cuts, the film did not achieve profitability during its initial theatrical run.
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige addressed the lower box office performance, attributing it, in part, to the absence of Chris Evans as the original Captain America. While Sam Wilson's journey was highly anticipated, the transition to a new lead for such an iconic role inevitably carried a different kind of audience expectation and drawing power, which was reflected in the financial outcome. This highlights the unique challenges of evolving long-standing franchises and character legacies. Despite the box office figures, the film remains a crucial installment for Sam Wilson's character development and the ongoing MCU narrative.
Critical Reception: A Mixed Bag
Critical reception for an MCU film often sparks lively debate, and Captain America: Brave New World proved to be no different, garnering a range of opinions from critics.
On the aggregate review site Rotten Tomatoes, 46% of 365 critics gave the film a positive review, indicating a divided critical consensus. Meanwhile, audiences polled by CinemaScore gave Captain America: Brave New World a "B–" grade. This marked the lowest CinemaScore for an MCU film to date, suggesting that while audiences were engaged, there was a noticeable split in their overall satisfaction.
Points of Praise:
- Performances of Mackie and Ford: Many critics singled out the acting. Anthony Mackie's portrayal of Sam Wilson as Captain America was widely praised for its depth, leadership, and emotional resonance. Harrison Ford's performance as Thaddeus Ross, particularly his transformation into the Red Hulk, was also lauded for bringing gravitas and a compelling tragic dimension to the character.
- Grounded Thriller Tone: Some critics appreciated the film's attempt to return to a more "grounded thriller" style, echoing the beloved Captain America: The Winter Soldier. They found the political intrigue and espionage elements engaging.
Common Criticisms:
- Story and Pacing: A significant portion of the negative reviews focused on the film's story, with some finding it inconsistent or convoluted. Pacing issues were also mentioned, suggesting that some narrative beats felt rushed or underdeveloped.
- MCU Connections: While some enjoyed the connections, others felt the film struggled to balance its standalone story with its place within the larger MCU tapestry, potentially feeling overly reliant on past events or setting up future ones without fully resolving its own plotlines.
- Visual Effects: Despite Marvel's reputation for cutting-edge VFX, some critics noted that certain visual effects, particularly in action sequences or character transformations (like the Red Hulk), did not consistently meet the high standards expected from the studio.
Despite the mixed reviews, the film did contribute significantly to Sam Wilson's narrative, and the strong performances, particularly from its lead actors, were frequently highlighted as standout elements. The Academy Award shortlisting for Laura Karpman's score also speaks to a particular aspect of the film's artistic success.
Captain America's Future: What's Next for Sam Wilson?
The ending of Captain America: Brave New World clearly lays the groundwork for Sam Wilson's continued journey as Captain America, solidifying his role as a pivotal figure in the MCU's unfolding saga. While the film wraps up its immediate conspiracy, it cleverly positions Sam for future challenges and greater responsibilities.
The resolution of the Thaddeus Ross conflict and the exoneration of Isaiah Bradley provide a sense of closure and progress for the characters involved. More importantly, the invitation extended to Joaquin Torres to join the Avengers signals a likely expansion of the team and Torres's growing importance within it. This suggests a future where Sam might not just be a solo operative but also a leader among a new generation of Earth's Mightiest Heroes.
The most potent setup for the future, however, comes from Dr. Samuel Sterns's chilling post-credits warning about "coming attacks from other worlds." This ominous pronouncement immediately broadens the scope of threats Sam and the Avengers will face, shifting from grounded, human-centric conspiracies to potentially cosmic dangers. It suggests that Brave New World is just the beginning of Sam's trials, preparing him for larger, universe-altering events.
We can anticipate Sam Wilson taking on a more prominent leadership role in future MCU team-ups, bringing his unique perspective and strategic thinking to the forefront. His journey is still very much in progress, and Brave New World serves as a crucial chapter in defining what it truly means to be Captain America in an increasingly complex and dangerous universe.
Your Questions Answered: Captain America: Brave New World FAQs
Got more questions about Sam Wilson's big screen debut as Captain America? We've got answers!
Q: Is Captain America: Brave New World part of the MCU?
A: Absolutely! Captain America: Brave New World is the 35th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and a key installment in Phase Five. It directly follows the events of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier miniseries.
Q: Who is the main villain in Brave New World?
A: The film features a dual threat. The primary antagonist orchestrating a mind-control plot is Dr. Samuel Sterns, also known as the Leader. However, U.S. President Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford) becomes a significant physical threat when he transforms into the Red Hulk.
Q: Is Chris Evans in Brave New World?
A: No, Chris Evans does not appear as Captain America in Brave New World. The film centers on Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson as the new Captain America, carrying on the legacy. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige even commented that the absence of Chris Evans contributed to the film's box office performance.
Q: What is the significance of the title change from New World Order?
A: The film was initially titled Captain America: New World Order. The title was changed to Captain America: Brave New World in June 2023 due to its controversial real-world connotations. The new title still reflects the theme of navigating a challenging and evolving global landscape without unintended political associations.
Q: Are there any post-credits scenes in Captain America: Brave New World?
A: Yes, there is a post-credits scene. It features Dr. Samuel Sterns warning Sam Wilson of impending attacks from "other worlds," setting up future threats in the MCU.
Ready to Experience "Brave New World"?
Sam Wilson's journey as Captain America is a powerful and essential narrative within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Captain America: Brave New World delivers a grounded, thrilling, and emotionally resonant story that explores the complexities of leadership, legacy, and justice in a rapidly changing world. From the high-stakes conspiracy to the unforgettable character transformations, it's a film that demands your attention.
Whether you're looking to revisit the film or catch it for the very first time, all the information you need to find Captain America: Brave New World Release Dates & Showtimes is at your fingertips. Make sure to check your local cinema listings and online ticketing platforms for current availability. Don't miss out on witnessing Sam Wilson fully embody the shield and define what it truly means to be Captain America for a brave new world. For the latest on where to purchase ticket availability, keep an eye on official cinema channels and online ticketing services.