The Marvel Cinematic Universe is no stranger to the unexpected, and with the release of Captain America: Brave New World, it seems fans are in for another wild ride. Between reports of reshoots and mounting speculation surrounding Sebastian Stan’s future as Captain America, the MCU is keeping everyone on edge.
Marvel Studios has built its reputation on delivering top-tier productions, but the making of Captain America: Brave New World hasn’t exactly been a walk in the park. Directed by Julius Onah, the film has reportedly undergone significant reshoots—a common practice in blockbuster filmmaking—but actor Tim Blake Nelson, who portrays Samuel Sterns/Leader, suggests that the movie was essentially shot twice.
While reshoots are par for the course in big-budget films, what stands out here is that these changes came on the heels of highly negative test screenings. This has raised alarm among fans, who are now left wondering what shape the final product will take.
Nevertheless, the film promises to be a fascinating addition to the MCU. Anthony Mackie takes the lead as Captain America in his first solo outing since inheriting the shield from Steve Rogers in Avengers: Endgame (2019), a role he cemented in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Early footage hints at a storyline filled with political tension, global upheaval, and, of course, the debut of Harrison Ford as President Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross—who will transform into the formidable Red Hulk.
One noticeable absence from the trailers and promotional materials for Brave New World is Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes, a character fans have long associated with Captain America’s journey. Mackie himself teased Bucky’s absence, joking that he wouldn’t have his “friends” on set this time, referencing both Stan’s Barnes and Daniel Brühl’s Baron Zemo.
However, fans hoping to see Bucky return might not have to wait long. Rumors suggest that Stan will make a cameo appearance in the film, possibly setting the stage for his involvement in Thunderbolts*, the gritty ensemble film slated for release in 2025. While Bucky’s screen time may be brief, it seems his story in the MCU is far from over.
If you’ve been expecting another epic-length MCU movie, Captain America: Brave New World might surprise you. With a runtime of just 1 hour and 58 minutes (per AMC), the film ranks among the shortest entries in the MCU, tying for sixth place alongside Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018).
For comparison, here’s a look at the MCU films with even shorter runtimes:
– The Incredible Hulk (1 hour 52 minutes)
– Thor: The Dark World (1 hour 52 minutes)
– Thor (1 hour 55 minutes)
– Doctor Strange (1 hour 55 minutes)
– Ant-Man (1 hour 57 minutes)
Interestingly, Brave New World also becomes the shortest film in the Captain America series, with the previous three films all running longer than two hours.
At a recent appearance at Tokyo Comic-Con, Sebastian Stan raised eyebrows when he lifted Captain America’s iconic shield and teased the crowd, saying, “Not Captain America… yet.” This is a direct nod to Bucky Barnes’ history in the comics, where he has taken up the mantle of Captain America. Could this be a hint at what’s to come in the MCU? With Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027) on the horizon, it seems that the possibility of Bucky’s ascension to the role of Captain America may be in the cards.
Stan, who first joined the MCU as Bucky in Captain America: The First Avenger (2011), continues to be a vocal supporter of the franchise. Responding to the recent surge in Marvel film criticism, Stan shared his thoughts: “It’s become really convenient to pick on [Marvel films]. And that’s fine. Everyone’s got an opinion. But they’re a big part of what contributes to this business… This is an artery traveling through the system of this entire machinery that’s Hollywood.”
As the MCU moves into its next phase, Stan will headline Thunderbolts*, a movie that will bring together a team of unlikely heroes at their lowest points. Alongside Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova and David Harbour’s Red Guardian, Stan’s Bucky will navigate a world that doesn’t fully trust him, a storyline that could further shape the Winter Soldier’s arc.
With the MCU evolving and the Captain America mantle passed on to Mackie’s Sam Wilson, the question remains: what does the future hold for Bucky Barnes? Whether he returns as the Winter Soldier, joins the Thunderbolts, or possibly even steps into the role of the next Captain America, it’s clear that Sebastian Stan remains integral to the MCU’s next chapter.
Captain America: Brave New World will be released worldwide on February 14, 2025. The movie stars Liv Tyler as Betty Ross, Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres/Falcon, Giancarlo Esposito as Seth Voelker/Sidewinder, Shira Haas as Ruta Bat-Seraph, and Carl Lumbly as Isaiah Bradley.
Are you surprised by the movie’s short runtime? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
