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

"Captain America: Brave New World" marks the fourth installment in the Marvel franchise and introduces Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson as the new Captain America, stepping into the role previously held by Chris Evans' Steve Rogers. This film not only advances the Captain America storyline in the MCU but also ties up loose ends from one of the earliest MCU entries, effectively serving as a sequel to "The Incredible Hulk."

With characters like Harrison Ford's Thunderbolt Ross, Tim Blake Nelson's The Leader, and Liv Tyler's Betty Ross making a comeback, "Brave New World" is deeply intertwined with the Hulk's narrative. Let's delve into the history of these characters and explore why this movie can be considered a follow-up to "The Incredible Hulk."

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 potential ally to Bruce Banner, played by Edward Norton. Sterns' fascination with gamma research hinted at his lack of ethical boundaries, setting the stage for his transformation into The Leader. When Banner was captured, Emil Blonsky coerced Sterns into enhancing him, leading to Sterns' accidental exposure to gamma-irradiated blood, which initiated his transformation into The Leader.

Comic fans know The Leader as a brilliant but sinister counterpart to the Hulk's brute strength. After his initial transformation, Sterns was taken into S.H.I.E.L.D. custody, as detailed in the MCU canon comic "The Avengers Prelude: Fury’s Big Week." However, he eventually escaped and now plays a pivotal role in the conspiracy involving Captain America and President Ross in "Brave New World." While his exact role remains under wraps, it's speculated that Sterns might be behind Ross's transformation into Red Hulk, similar to the comics, and could be eyeing the newly introduced adamantium for his schemes.

Liv Tyler’s Betty Ross

Liv Tyler returns as Betty Ross, marking her first appearance in the MCU since "The Incredible Hulk." Betty, who shared a romantic history with Bruce Banner, played a crucial role in his gamma research, inadvertently becoming a victim of his transformation into the Hulk. Her relationship with her father, Thunderbolt Ross, was strained due to his relentless pursuit of Banner.

In "The Incredible Hulk," Betty was dating Dr. Leonard Samson, yet she didn't hesitate to help Banner when he needed it. After their brief reunion, Banner resumed his fugitive life, leaving Betty's story on hold until now. Her role in "Brave New World" remains a mystery, but her expertise in gamma research and her familial ties to President Ross could be significant. There's also the possibility of her transformation into Red She-Hulk, as seen in the comics.

Harrison Ford’s President Ross/Red Hulk

Harrison Ford steps into the role of Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, previously played by the late William Hurt. Ross, introduced in "The Incredible Hulk," was a key antagonist to Banner, overseeing the gamma radiation project that led to Banner's transformation. His obsession with controlling the Hulk led him to create the Abomination, another gamma-powered being.

Ross's journey in the MCU saw him evolve from a military general to the Secretary of Defense, where he was instrumental in the Sokovia Accords. After being snapped out of existence by Thanos and restored in "Avengers: Endgame," Ross is now the President of the United States in "Brave New World." He aims to redefine himself as a diplomat and reconnect with his daughter, but his transformation into Red Hulk after surviving an assassination attempt throws him into a new conflict with Captain America.

Ross's pursuit of adamantium, a newly introduced super-metal, adds another layer to his ambitions, aligning with the film's theme of a "Brave New World" where new technologies have both positive and destructive potential.

Where Is The Hulk in Brave New World?

Despite the strong ties to "The Incredible Hulk," the titular character, Bruce Banner, is notably absent from "Brave New World." Since his last major appearance, Banner has evolved significantly, merging with the Hulk to form a balanced entity with both strength and intelligence. He's now part of a family of Hulks, including his cousin Jen Walters (She-Hulk) and his son Skaar.

While there's no confirmed role for Banner in "Brave New World," his absence could be explained by his off-world activities with Skaar. However, given the film's ties to the Hulk's narrative, a cameo or a post-credits scene featuring Banner wouldn't be surprising. His relationship with Betty and his reaction to Ross's transformation into Red Hulk could add significant depth to the story.

With "Captain America: Brave New World," the MCU continues to weave its intricate tapestry of stories, connecting past narratives with new adventures. As we await the film's release, the anticipation grows for how these beloved characters will shape the future of the Marvel Universe.