The Marvel Cinematic Universe has entered a new chapter with Captain America: Brave New World, a film that solidifies Sam Wilson’s place as the shield-bearer of justice. While it delivers thrilling action and compelling character moments, it isn’t without a few stumbles along the way.

Anthony Mackie steps fully into the role of Captain America, and his performance is one of the film’s biggest highlights. He brings a grounded, thoughtful approach to Sam Wilson, portraying him as a man still coming to terms with the weight of his new mantle. Unlike Steve Rogers, who was always confident in his role, Sam grapples with the political and personal implications of being a hero in a complex world. This makes for a fresh and engaging character arc.

Another highlight is Harrison Ford’s debut as President Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross. Ford imbues Ross with the expected gruffness and authority, creating an intriguing dynamic with Sam. The film also introduces new characters and brings back familiar faces, weaving in strong emotional beats that connect to the MCU’s larger narrative.

The action is well-executed, with several standout sequences that showcase Sam’s agility and tactical skills. Without super-soldier serum to fall back on, he has to rely on strategy, technology, and sheer determination, which makes for some exhilarating fight scenes. His aerial combat sequences stand out as a thrilling blend of acrobatics and precision.

While Brave New World excels in character development, the plot feels overstuffed and, at times, unfocused. The story attempts to tackle political intrigue, espionage, and global tensions, but some elements feel underdeveloped. Instead of a sharp, cohesive narrative, the film juggles too many threads, leading to moments where the stakes feel muddled. The political themes, while ambitious, don’t hit as hard as they could, as if the film is hesitant to take a firm stance.

The special effects, usually a hallmark of Marvel films, are also inconsistent. Some of the CGI-heavy sequences, particularly in the climactic battle, lack the polish we’ve come to expect from the franchise. While there are visually stunning moments—especially in Sam’s flight scenes—others feel rushed or overly reliant on digital effects in a way that detracts from the immersion.

Captain America: Brave New World is a strong, imperfect installment in the MCU. It does justice to Sam Wilson’s evolution as Captain America, offering compelling performances and engaging action, but it struggles with a bloated plot and occasional visual missteps. Despite these flaws, the film successfully paves the way for the next era of heroes, proving that Sam Wilson is more than worthy of carrying the shield.