Hulk Smash: 'Captain America: Brave New World' as Hidden Hulk Sequel

Captain America: Brave New World, the fourth installment in the Marvel franchise and the first starring Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson, unexpectedly serves as a sequel to The Incredible Hulk. This connection stems from the return of several key characters from the original Hulk film.

Captain America: Brave New World Debut Trailer Images

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Tim Blake Nelson's The Leader: The Incredible Hulk introduced Samuel Sterns, who, after exposure to Bruce Banner's blood, began transforming into The Leader. Brave New World finally delivers on this long-awaited transformation. The Leader's escape from S.H.I.E.L.D. custody (detailed in The Avengers Prelude: Fury’s Big Week comic) places him at the heart of the film's conspiracy involving Captain America and President Ross. His potential involvement in Ross's Red Hulk transformation and his interest in adamantium add layers of intrigue.

Liv Tyler's Betty Ross: Betty Ross, Bruce Banner's former love interest and daughter of Thunderbolt Ross, returns after a significant absence. Her past involvement with Project Gamma Pulse and her complex relationship with her father set the stage for her potential role in Brave New World. Will she reconcile with her father, utilize her gamma research expertise, or even become the Red She-Hulk, as in the comics?

Harrison Ford's President Ross/Red Hulk: The most prominent link to The Incredible Hulk is the central role of President Ross, played by Harrison Ford. His long-standing feud with Bruce Banner, his involvement in creating the Abomination, and his ambition to control the Hulk are revisited. The film depicts Ross's election as President and his subsequent transformation into the Red Hulk, a significant plot point. His pursuit of adamantium further emphasizes the film's connection to the Hulk's world.

The Absence of the Hulk: The only element preventing Brave New World from being a direct Hulk sequel is the absence of Bruce Banner/Hulk himself. While a cameo isn't entirely ruled out, his current family situation (including his son, Skaar) might explain his absence. This leaves the question of how Captain America will handle the Red Hulk and The Leader without the Hulk's assistance.

The Introduction of Adamantium: The film introduces adamantium, a pivotal element, sparking a global arms race and providing a new conflict for Captain America to navigate.

Ultimately, Captain America: Brave New World reimagines the Hulk storyline, focusing on the lingering consequences and unresolved conflicts from the original film, creating a compelling narrative that bridges the gap between past and present MCU events.