Bucky’s absence in Captain America: Brave New World elevates his role in Thunderbolt to new levels of importance.
The latest update on the cast of Captain America: Brave New World has added to the importance of Thunderbolt, another upcoming Marvel movie. The plot of Thunderbolts takes an unexpected turn when it is announced that Anthony Mackie will take up the shield as Sam Wilson, but without Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes.
Mackie’s revelation suggests that Captain America 4 will be the first film in the Marvel Universe to be released in 2025, after being pushed back to 2024, which adds to the anticipation of seeing Mackie in his first solo adventure, scheduled for February. 14, 2025.
Bucky’s relevance
Although the cast of Brave New World promises to be stellar, the absence of Harrison Ford as Thunderbolt Ross and Tim Blake Nelson as the lead, Stan as Bucky, has sparked controversy. This decision not only disappointed many, but also increased the importance of this new super team in the development of Bucky’s character outside of the Cap franchise. Thunderbird sits as an important narrative bridge for Buck, projecting him beyond the role typically associated with Steve Rogers.
Directed by Jake Schreyer and featuring a cast that includes Wyatt Russell, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Tim Roth, Florence Pugh and David Harbour, Thunderbolts emerges as a fascinating amalgamation of heroes and villains united by a common cause. The film, which will be released three months after Brave New World, has the crucial task of demonstrating Bucky’s viability as an independent character in the MCU.
Winter Soldier Trip
Bucky Barnes’ transition from the loyal Winter Soldier to a more independent figure in the MCU reflects a significant change for the character. From his introduction, Bucky is intrinsically tied to Captain America’s identity, first as a friend and then as a complex adversary and ally. But his absence in Brave New World not only highlights Bucky’s ability to direct his own narrative, but also opens the door to exploring his identity beyond the shadow of Captain America.
It gives Bucks a unique opportunity in the Thunderbolts. He not only takes a more central role, but also leads a variety of characters, some of whom cross the line between heroes and villains. This film could be the perfect vehicle to showcase Bucky’s leadership, skills and complex morals, redefining his role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and ushering in a new chapter for the character.
A rational decision
While leaving Bucky out in Brave New World has been criticized, this editorial choice has its own logic. The new Cap trilogy clearly separates itself from the Steve Rogers films and seeks to refresh its fans. Bucky’s presence in Thunderbolts will be an opportunity for him to explore his evolution as a main character beyond just being Capy’s eternal partner, out of harm’s way.
While Buck’s absence in Cap 4 is far from a mistake, it underscores the broader narrative evolution of both the character and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With an anti-hero movie on the horizon, fans can expect an in-depth exploration of Bucky Barnes, defying expectations and expanding his legacy in this cinematic universe.