*Captain America: Brave New World* marks the fourth installment in the iconic Marvel franchise, spotlighting Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson as the new Captain America, succeeding Chris Evans' Steve Rogers. This film not only advances the Captain America narrative within the MCU but also ties up loose ends from one of the earliest MCU films, *The Incredible Hulk*. In essence, *Brave New World* serves as a sequel to *The Incredible Hulk* in all but name, bringing back key characters and unresolved storylines.

Captain America: Brave New World Debut Trailer Images

4 ImagesTim Blake Nelson’s The Leader

The Incredible Hulk introduced Tim Blake Nelson's Samuel Sterns, setting the stage for a significant villain in the Hulk's universe. Initially an ally to Bruce Banner, Sterns' fascination with gamma research hinted at his darker ambitions. After an accident involving Banner's blood, Sterns began his transformation into The Leader, a gamma-powered genius. This plotline, left hanging since 2008, is finally being explored in Brave New World.

Following his transformation, Sterns was taken into S.H.I.E.L.D. custody, as detailed in The Avengers Prelude: Fury’s Big Week. However, he eventually escaped and now plays a pivotal role in the conspiracy involving Captain America and President Ross. While details of his involvement remain scarce, it's speculated that Sterns may have influenced Ross's transformation into Red Hulk and could be eyeing the newly introduced adamantium, a metal poised to spark a global arms race.

Liv Tyler’s Betty Ross ----------------------

Alongside The Leader, Brave New World sees the return of Liv Tyler as Betty Ross, marking her first MCU appearance since The Incredible Hulk. Betty, who shared a romantic past with Bruce Banner and played a crucial role in his transformation into the Hulk, has been largely absent from the MCU. Her reintroduction raises questions about her current relationship with her father, President Ross, and her potential involvement in the gamma research that continues to shape the MCU.

Betty's return could explore her reconciliation with her father, her expertise in gamma research, or even her transformation into Red She-Hulk, as seen in the comics. Her role in Brave New World remains a mystery, but her presence is a significant nod to the film's roots in The Incredible Hulk.

Harrison Ford’s President Ross/Red Hulk ---------------------------------------

The most telling sign of Brave New World being a sequel to The Incredible Hulk is the central role of Harrison Ford's Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, now President of the United States. Ford steps into the role previously played by William Hurt, who portrayed Ross as a relentless antagonist to Bruce Banner. Ross's journey from a military general obsessed with controlling the Hulk to a statesman seeking to redefine himself and reconnect with his daughter is a key narrative thread.

Ross's transformation into Red Hulk, a character he despised, adds a new layer to his character. His pursuit of adamantium and his complex relationship with Sam Wilson highlight the film's geopolitical stakes and personal drama. Director Julius Onah emphasizes Ross's evolution from a man driven by anger to one seeking redemption and cooperation with the Avengers.

Where Is The Hulk in Brave New World? -------------------------------------

Despite Brave New World's deep ties to The Incredible Hulk, Bruce Banner, played by Mark Ruffalo, appears to be absent from the main narrative. While his inclusion would make sense given his history with Ross and Sterns, and his current role as a key defender of Earth, it seems unlikely that he will play a significant part. Banner's focus on his family, including his cousin Jen Walters (She-Hulk) and son Skaar, might explain his absence.

While fans might hope for a cameo or a post-credits scene featuring Banner, Brave New World seems poised to focus on Captain America's battle against Red Hulk and The Leader without the direct involvement of the Hulk. This leaves room for future MCU projects, such as Avengers: Doomsday, to bring the Avengers back together, including Banner.

For more insights into the Marvel Universe's future, explore what Marvel has planned for 2025 and beyond.