Captain America: Brave New World Revealed as Secret Hulk Sequel

"Captain America: Brave New World" marks a significant milestone in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as it introduces Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson as the new Captain America, stepping into the iconic role previously held by Chris Evans' Steve Rogers. This film not only continues the Captain America saga but also ties up loose ends from one of the earliest MCU films, "The Incredible Hulk," making it a de facto sequel to that movie. Let's delve into the characters from "The Incredible Hulk" who are returning and explore why "Brave New World" is essentially "The Incredible Hulk 2."

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 future antagonist, a promise that "Brave New World" finally fulfills. Initially, Sterns collaborates with Edward Norton's Bruce Banner to find a cure for the Hulk. However, his ambition leads him to experiment with Banner's gamma-irradiated blood, hinting at his lack of ethical boundaries.

The film culminates with Sterns' transformation into The Leader after Banner's blood seeps into an open wound on his forehead. This pivotal moment, familiar to comic book fans, sets the stage for Sterns to become a formidable villain, matching Hulk's strength with his own superhuman intelligence. "Brave New World" picks up this thread, revealing that Sterns was taken into S.H.I.E.L.D. custody but eventually escaped, now central to a conspiracy involving Captain America and President Ross.

Sterns' involvement in the film could be linked to President Ross's transformation into Red Hulk, a plot point from the comics. Additionally, with the introduction of adamantium, a new arms race is sparked, and The Leader might exploit this to further his own agenda, posing a significant threat to Captain America and Falcon.

Alongside The Leader, Liv Tyler's Betty Ross returns to the MCU in "Brave New World," marking her first appearance since "The Incredible Hulk." Betty, who was once romantically involved with Bruce Banner, played a crucial role in his transformation into the Hulk. Her relationship with her father, General Ross, was strained due to his obsession with capturing Banner.

In "The Incredible Hulk," Betty aids Banner in his quest for a cure, despite her father's opposition. After the events of the film, she fades from the MCU, only to be briefly mentioned as one of the victims of Thanos' snap in "Avengers: Infinity War." Her return in "Brave New World" raises questions about her current relationship with her father, now the President, and her potential involvement in the gamma research that could lead to her becoming Red She-Hulk, as seen in the comics.

The most evident connection to "The Incredible Hulk" is Harrison Ford's portrayal of Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, taking over from the late William Hurt. Ross, who debuted as a primary antagonist in "The Incredible Hulk," has been a recurring figure in the MCU, evolving from a general obsessed with controlling the Hulk to the Secretary of Defense and now the President of the United States.

In "The Incredible Hulk," Ross's pursuit of Banner leads to the creation of the Abomination, a monster more dangerous than the Hulk. His journey continues through various MCU films, culminating in "Brave New World," where he attempts to forge a new relationship with the Avengers and Sam Wilson. However, an assassination attempt leads to his transformation into Red Hulk, a twist that ties back to his long-standing conflict with Banner.

Ross's transformation into Red Hulk and his interest in adamantium highlight his ongoing quest to protect his country, albeit through controversial means. This storyline not only connects to "The Incredible Hulk" but also sets the stage for future MCU developments.

Despite the strong ties to "The Incredible Hulk," Bruce Banner, played by Mark Ruffalo, appears to be absent from "Brave New World." While his presence would add depth to the narrative, especially given his history with Ross and Sterns, it seems unlikely that he will play a significant role. However, a cameo or a post-credits scene could still be possible.

Banner's absence might be explained by his current commitments, such as his family life with his cousin Jen Walters (She-Hulk) and his son Skaar, introduced in the "She-Hulk" series. As the MCU continues to evolve, Banner's role as a key defender of Earth alongside Wong suggests he might be occupied with other threats.

The lack of Hulk in "Brave New World" leaves fans wondering if he will make an appearance in future MCU projects, such as "Avengers: Doomsday" in 2026, where the Avengers are expected to reunite.