"Captain America Film Revealed as Hulk Sequel"

"Captain America: Brave New World" marks a thrilling new chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), featuring Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson stepping into the iconic role of Captain America, previously held by Chris Evans' Steve Rogers. This fourth installment not only advances the narrative of Captain America but also ties up numerous loose ends from the early days of the MCU, particularly from "The Incredible Hulk." Essentially, "Brave New World" serves as a sequel to "The Incredible Hulk" in all but name, weaving together characters and storylines that have been dormant for years.

Captain America: Brave New World Debut Trailer Images

4 ImagesTim Blake Nelson’s The Leader

In "The Incredible Hulk," Tim Blake Nelson's character, Samuel Sterns, was introduced as a pivotal figure in the Hulk's universe, setting the stage for his transformation into The Leader. Initially an ally to Edward Norton's Bruce Banner, Sterns' obsession with their gamma research hinted at his future villainy. After a dramatic incident involving Emil Blonsky's transformation into the Abomination, Sterns was exposed to Banner's gamma-irradiated blood, marking the beginning of his evolution into The Leader.

The MCU has finally picked up this thread in "Brave New World." After years in S.H.I.E.L.D. custody, as revealed in "The Avengers Prelude: Fury's Big Week," Sterns escaped and is now central to a conspiracy involving Captain America and President Ross. With his superhuman intelligence, The Leader poses a formidable threat, potentially connected to Ross's transformation into Red Hulk and the introduction of adamantium, a pivotal element in the MCU's future.

Sterns was just beginning to transform into The Leader when last we saw him.

Another key character from "The Incredible Hulk" returning in "Brave New World" is Liv Tyler's Betty Ross. Betty, the daughter of Thaddeus Ross, shared a deep romantic and professional connection with Bruce Banner. Her expertise in gamma research was crucial to Banner's survival as the Hulk, and her relationship with her father was strained due to his obsession with capturing Banner.

Betty's reappearance in "Brave New World" remains shrouded in mystery, but her history with Banner and gamma research could play a significant role. Given her father's new position as President, Betty might be involved in diplomatic efforts or even the gamma-related events unfolding in the film. Her comic book alter ego, Red She-Hulk, adds another layer of intrigue to her potential involvement.

The most striking connection to "The Incredible Hulk" is Harrison Ford's portrayal of Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, now President of the United States. Originally played by William Hurt, Ross was a relentless antagonist to Banner, driven by his desire to control the Hulk. His journey through the MCU saw him evolve from a military general to Secretary of Defense, and now, to President.

In "Brave New World," Ross attempts to reconcile with Sam Wilson and foster cooperation between the Avengers and the government. However, an assassination attempt triggers his transformation into Red Hulk, a development that ties directly into his history with Banner and the gamma research he once pursued. The introduction of adamantium further complicates the geopolitical landscape, setting the stage for a new arms race.

Ross's transformation into Red Hulk and his involvement with The Leader and adamantium highlight the film's deep roots in "The Incredible Hulk," despite the absence of Bruce Banner himself.

While "Brave New World" heavily draws from "The Incredible Hulk," the titular character, Bruce Banner, played by Mark Ruffalo, is conspicuously absent. Despite his significant role in the MCU, including his time with the Avengers and his evolution into a more controlled Hulk, there's no indication of his involvement in this film.

Banner's absence is notable, given his history with Ross and The Leader. His current status as a respected superhero and his family ties, including his cousin Jen Walters (She-Hulk) and son Skaar, might explain his absence. However, a cameo or post-credits scene featuring Banner could still be a possibility, potentially setting up future storylines involving the Hulk and his expanded family.

Ruffalo makes a brief appearance as Bruce Banner in 2021's Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.

"Captain America: Brave New World" promises to be a thrilling continuation of the MCU, bridging past and present while setting the stage for future adventures. With its deep ties to "The Incredible Hulk," the film offers fans a chance to revisit beloved characters and explore new dimensions of the Marvel universe.