For those big fans of the Marvel Universe and Captain America, this new quest he must help resolve, brings him and his friends on an investigative journey through the historic dealings of the gamma radiation that changed Bruce Banner into the Incredible Hulk. There are also some reminiscences of the existence of the Eternals that has all the countries up in arms on this new discovery that has become known to them all. Now that we are in the midst of the many heroes that exist in these comics, being displayed before us with their many intertwined stories can be confusing to the new movie goer or even the occasional fan. If this is your first experience into this world, you should be fine understanding what is happening around you, but I do suggest you check out some of the previous films dealing with all the characters. 
With the banning of superhero activity from the Wakanda and Sokovian accords, that was enforced by Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross / Red Hulk (Harrison Ford), the United States is now rid of such activity. The concern by the former surviving members of the Avengers with Ross becoming the next president of the United States, is his past will come back to haunt the world as we know it. Because of that apprehension Sam Wilson / Captain America (Anthony Mackie) keeps a strong relationship with the country’s new leader.
A new threat begins to arise and now President Ross has things to consider. He calls Captain America to his side to help with his world campaign for peace after the discovery of Adamantium, left in the remnant of the Celestial being (The Eternals) who tried to destroy earth, is a metal material with strong capabilities as vibranium. Trying to avoid an arms race with the rest of the world’s countries, Ross and Wilson need to truly discover what is behind everything.
Having allies at his side Sam Wilson has a strong friend supporting him, Joaquin Torres / Falcon (Danny Ramirez), a first lieutenant in the U.S. AirForce takes on the mantle of the Falcon, after it was left open by Wilson. They have been doing research and protecting this country, under wraps, for some time and looking for a way to finally be able to defend the citizens without being in hiding. With Wilson’s connection to Ross maybe they can finally help again. When things begin to look bleak for the United States, Wilson and Torres start looking for answers and together they try to find a way to investigate and prevent the new threat.
Director Julius Onah does a great job putting together this tremendous adventure but does leave some openings that could make things not so clear. Since we are so many films into the history of this universe it can become unclear for the new or occasional viewer. Julius tries to explain some of the past information but not enough to help. If you are able to watch the previous installments, it will help a lot. As for the performance it was definitely spectacular and worth going to see. Including the special effects and the fantastic stunts, it is most important to experience this in the theater itself.
Lasting thoughts to think about before watching this motion picture, if you can try and catch yourself up on the Marvel experience or reacquaint your mind on the following films, Captain America Civil War (2016), the Incredible Hulk (2008), and the television miniseries the Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021), to help enrich yourself. Another thing to consider is this story is more like an espionage undertaking than an action exploration that you are used to.
Final Comment: I based my grade on the traditional story format from the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe) and the excellent presentation.
Stars 3.5 out of 5
Additional Film Information
Cast: Anthony Mackie, Danny Ramirez, Shira Haas, Carl Lumbly, Xosha Roquemore, Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson, Giancarlo Esposito, Harrison Ford, Liv Tyler, and Tim Blake Nelson.
Directed: Julius Onah
Genre: Action, Adventure, and Sci-Fi.
MPAA Rating: Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, and some strong language.
Running Time: 1 hour and 58 minutes
Release Date: February 14, 2025
Distributed By: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.
Release In: Standard, IMAX, Dolby Digital