Captain America: Brave New World is ready to release the newest version of the iconic Marvel Cinematic Universe hero, and the film’s director has addressed how Sam Wilson is able to take on the Red Hulk without any superpowers. While previous versions of Captain America, both John Walker and Steve Rogers, were powered by the Super Soldier Serum, Sam Wilson was not. While his flight suit certainly plays a role in his combat abilities, it has raised concerns about how the hero will be able to take on the MCU’s Red Hulk and his immense super strength.
Talking to Empire Magazine in its latest edition, director Julius Onah spoke about the experience of pitting Captain America against President Ross. As demonstrated in recent Captain America: Brave New World trailer, Harrison Ford will transform into the massive villain, which has sparked a lot of talk about the character and his power level. Onah, however, seems to believe that mere power is not the most important thing to Sam. He explained his reasoning, stating:
“These guys are incredible fighters, and Sam has been there and back. He has a few tricks up his sleeve, and throughout the film, there are things he learns that become other tools in his arsenal as he faces even the most impossible of threats.”
Onah’s comments suggest that Sam has already built up a large arsenal of skills that he will be able to utilize during this massive conflict. While the Red Hulk may seem like an impossible threat to face, Sam Wilson has overcome a lot in his time in the Marvel Universe. After that, it makes sense that the hero would be able to provide enough of a challenge to the Red Hulk in the next Marvel film.
Captain American and Red Hulk’s fight won’t be based solely on power
Onah’s comments make sense for the next story, as a physical confrontation between Red Hulk and Sam Wilson based on brute force would certainly not work for the latter. Even a character like Steve Rogers who received the Super Soldier Serum would likely lose to any Hulk. As a result, it’s important that instead of focusing on the physical part of this battle, there are more tricks and twists integrated. This could make for a satisfying showdown between the film’s two characters.
It’s important that Sam Wilson’s Captain America gets the opportunity to prove himself in this film, as he will be an important part of the upcoming Avengers team. Fortunately, these comments seem to indicate that Sam’s knowledge and adaptability will play an important role in the coming conflict with the transformed Red Hulk. The fight certainly won’t end with just punches, and Sam will likely emerge victorious.
Power levels in superhero media can become meaningless at a certain point, so I believe it is important that these conflicts are about other things. Regardless of how Red Hulk’s strength is established, it is critical that Captain America finds a way to defeat or surpass him. We hope this is done in a clever and unexpected way that allows the audience to feel connected to the character in Captain America: Brave New Worldwhich will help further prepare the titular hero for more in the MCU.