I get the frustration with Hollywood’s reliance on sequels and franchises, but Brave New World is more than just another Captain America movie. It’s not about patriotism to the state—it’s about patriotism to the people. That’s a fundamental distinction, especially given that this is the first time a Black hero has taken up the mantle of Captain America and is positioned to lead the Avengers.
Sam Wilson’s journey isn’t about upholding the government; it’s about challenging it when necessary. The line from President Ross—"You are not Steve Rogers"—isn’t just about legacy, but about Sam rejecting blind loyalty to institutions in favor of serving the people. I'd argue it's actually a very timely story.
And while the MCU is often used as shorthand for Hollywood’s rinse-and-repeat cycle, it’s worth noting that in the last five years, it’s been one of the biggest forces pushing mainstream representation forward in blockbuster filmmaking. Shang-Chi brought a predominantly Asian cast and deep martial arts influences to the genre, Eternals gave us a diverse ensemble and the first openly gay superhero family with a non-military approach to conflict/powers, Ms. Marvel centered a Muslim teen superhero and brought the story of the Pakistani/Indian partition to a mainstream audience, Echo showcased Indigenous and deaf representation, and She-Hulk played with fourth-wall-breaking feminist satire in a way no other comic adaptation has.
Are sequels exhausting? Sure. But not all of them are just cash grabs—some are actively reshaping the genre.
period! Appreciate this perspective - we were definitely directing some exaggerated sequel frustration at the nearest culprit. Perhaps should've saved the vitriol for a different superhero franchise powerhouse we are less fond of...
LOVED the Nix! Author has a newer book called Wellness that I've had on my nightstand for the better part of a year and still haven't picked up. Yes, I too am behind on my Goodreads goal...
I love this I couldn't agree more!
I get the frustration with Hollywood’s reliance on sequels and franchises, but Brave New World is more than just another Captain America movie. It’s not about patriotism to the state—it’s about patriotism to the people. That’s a fundamental distinction, especially given that this is the first time a Black hero has taken up the mantle of Captain America and is positioned to lead the Avengers.
Sam Wilson’s journey isn’t about upholding the government; it’s about challenging it when necessary. The line from President Ross—"You are not Steve Rogers"—isn’t just about legacy, but about Sam rejecting blind loyalty to institutions in favor of serving the people. I'd argue it's actually a very timely story.
And while the MCU is often used as shorthand for Hollywood’s rinse-and-repeat cycle, it’s worth noting that in the last five years, it’s been one of the biggest forces pushing mainstream representation forward in blockbuster filmmaking. Shang-Chi brought a predominantly Asian cast and deep martial arts influences to the genre, Eternals gave us a diverse ensemble and the first openly gay superhero family with a non-military approach to conflict/powers, Ms. Marvel centered a Muslim teen superhero and brought the story of the Pakistani/Indian partition to a mainstream audience, Echo showcased Indigenous and deaf representation, and She-Hulk played with fourth-wall-breaking feminist satire in a way no other comic adaptation has.
Are sequels exhausting? Sure. But not all of them are just cash grabs—some are actively reshaping the genre.
period! Appreciate this perspective - we were definitely directing some exaggerated sequel frustration at the nearest culprit. Perhaps should've saved the vitriol for a different superhero franchise powerhouse we are less fond of...
Yes! What WOULD happen if I really went for it?! The exact prompt I needed for this new freelancing phase of life💪🏼
rooting for you!
LOVED the Nix! Author has a newer book called Wellness that I've had on my nightstand for the better part of a year and still haven't picked up. Yes, I too am behind on my Goodreads goal...
YES! tbh I loved wellness even more. Definitely recommend giving it a go.