Incredible Hulk's Hidden Influence Revealed in Captain America: Brave New World

Captain America: Brave New World, the fourth installment in the Marvel franchise, stars Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson, succeeding Chris Evans' Steve Rogers. Intriguingly, this film acts as a long-awaited sequel to The Incredible Hulk, resolving plot threads from the original film.

This "Incredible Hulk 2" features the return of key characters: Harrison Ford as Thunderbolt Ross, Tim Blake Nelson as The Leader, and Liv Tyler as Betty Ross.

Captain America: Brave New World Debut Trailer Images

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Tim Blake Nelson's The Leader: The Incredible Hulk introduced Samuel Sterns, who, through exposure to Bruce Banner's blood, transforms into The Leader. The Avengers Prelude: Fury’s Big Week comic (MCU canon) reveals S.H.I.E.L.D.'s capture of Sterns, who later escapes, becoming a central figure in Brave New World's conspiracy alongside President Ross. His role remains largely mysterious, though his involvement in Ross's Red Hulk transformation is likely. His enhanced intellect makes him a formidable adversary.

Liv Tyler's Betty Ross: Betty Ross, Bruce Banner's former love interest and a researcher in Project Gamma Pulse, returns. Her past involvement with Banner and her complicated relationship with her father, now President Ross, sets the stage for her role in Brave New World. The possibility of her becoming Red She-Hulk, as in the comics, remains intriguing.

Harrison Ford's President Ross/Red Hulk: Harrison Ford takes over the role of Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, significantly impacting Brave New World. His evolution from antagonist in The Incredible Hulk to President of the United States, fueled by the events of Secret Invasion, is a pivotal plot point. His transformation into Red Hulk, a pivotal moment, suggests a Faustian bargain with The Leader. His pursuit of adamantium, a newly introduced super-metal, adds another layer to the geopolitical conflict.

The director, Julius Onah, highlights Ross's transformation from a "thunderous" figure to an elder statesman seeking reconciliation with his daughter and cooperation with the Avengers.

Hulk's Absence: The notable absence of Mark Ruffalo's Bruce Banner/Hulk is the only element preventing Brave New World from being explicitly titled The Incredible Hulk 2. While a cameo isn't ruled out, Banner's current responsibilities – including his family of Hulks (Jen Walters and Skaar) – might explain his absence. His potential appearance might be saved for Avengers: Doomsday.