Captain America: Brave New World Is Secretly an Incredible Hulk Sequel

Captain America: Brave New World, the fourth installment in the Marvel franchise, stars Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson, succeeding Chris Evans' Steve Rogers. While focusing on Captain America's continued MCU journey, the film significantly expands on plot points from the very first MCU film, effectively serving as The Incredible Hulk 2.

This connection stems from the return of key characters from The Incredible Hulk: Harrison Ford's Thunderbolt Ross, Tim Blake Nelson's The Leader, and Liv Tyler's Betty Ross. Let's delve into their history and how Brave New World ties into the Hulk storyline.

Captain America: Brave New World Debut Trailer Images

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Tim Blake Nelson's The Leader

The Incredible Hulk introduced Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns, whose transformation into The Leader is finally realized in Brave New World. Initially an ally to Bruce Banner, Sterns' overzealous experimentation with Banner's blood leads to his own gamma-powered transformation. Comic book fans recognize this as the origin of The Leader, a villain whose intellect rivals the Hulk's strength. The MCU's delayed follow-up on this storyline is rectified in Brave New World.

Sterns' whereabouts are explained in the MCU-canon comic The Avengers Prelude: Fury’s Big Week, revealing his capture by Black Widow and subsequent imprisonment within S.H.I.E.L.D. His escape and involvement in a conspiracy alongside Captain America and President Ross remain largely mysterious, though his potential role in Ross' transformation into Red Hulk and his interest in adamantium are speculated. As The Leader, his enhanced intellect makes him a formidable adversary.

Liv Tyler's Betty Ross

Liv Tyler's return as Betty Ross marks another significant connection to The Incredible Hulk. Their past relationship and Betty's involvement in Project Gamma Pulse, alongside her strained relationship with her father, are revisited. Her role in Brave New World remains undisclosed, though her expertise in gamma radiation and the possibility of her becoming Red She-Hulk in the MCU are intriguing possibilities.

Betty's story since The Incredible Hulk, including her survival of Thanos' snap, is largely unknown, adding to the anticipation surrounding her role in the new film.

Harrison Ford's President Ross/Red Hulk

Harrison Ford's portrayal of Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross is the most obvious link to The Incredible Hulk. Ross's history as an antagonist to Bruce Banner, his involvement in Project Gamma Pulse, and his relentless pursuit of the Hulk are central to his character arc. His transformation into Red Hulk is a major plot point in Brave New World.

Ross's MCU journey, from his role in Captain America: Civil War, Black Widow, and Infinity War, culminating in his presidency and subsequent transformation, is a significant narrative thread. His attempt at reconciliation with Sam Wilson and his motivations for becoming Red Hulk are key elements of the film.

Director Julius Onah highlights the evolution of Ross's character, from a "thunderous" military man to an elder statesman seeking redemption. His desire for cooperation between the Avengers and the US government is contrasted with his transformation into Red Hulk, driven by a need to control adamantium and protect his country.

Where Is the Hulk in Brave New World?

The absence of Mark Ruffalo's Bruce Banner/Hulk is the primary distinction between Brave New World and a direct Incredible Hulk sequel. While a cameo isn't entirely ruled out, Banner's current involvement with a burgeoning Hulk family (Jen Walters and Skaar) could explain his absence. His potential involvement might be reserved for future installments, such as Avengers: Doomsday.

The question remains: will we see Hulk in Brave New World? The film's focus on the repercussions of The Incredible Hulk's events, the introduction of adamantium, and the central role of Ross and The Leader make it a compelling addition to the MCU, even without Hulk's direct participation.