Ranking the Captain America Movies: You Won’t Believe Where Brave New World Lands!

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I’m quite fond of the Captain America films. Now, some might find this controversial, but I personally believe that the Captain America series surpasses the Dark Knight trilogy in quality.

It’s clear you understand, and I concur with your earlier statement – blasphemy might be the word, but these Marvel Cinematic Universe movies have always stood out for me as the cream of the crop. With “Captain America: Brave New World” currently gracing our screens (Eric Eisenberg has shared some thoughts on it in his review), I thought now would be an excellent opportunity to reconsider these films and arrange them in order of preference.

Frankly speaking, nothing epitomizes American spirit more than expressing opinions online about things that spark debate and criticism – it’s as iconic as enjoying apple pie, playing baseball, or managing credit card bills. And now, without any further delay, let me share my rankings of all four Captain America movies for your perusal.

4. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)

The First Avenger” was an excellent representation of Captain America for its era. To clarify, I hold high regard for the initial Marvel Cinematic Universe film featuring Captain America, and choosing to set it in the past was a daring decision.

In contrast, after my colleague Alexandra Ramos revisited each stage of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, she concluded that Phase 1 was the least impressive, and I find myself concurring with this assessment (although, I must admit, I have a fondness for the initial Thor film)).

The problem is that this film seems quite outdated when placed beside the more recent Captain America movies. In this particular movie, Steve Rogers, played by Chris Evans, transforms from a frail-bodied individual with a giant heart, into a towering figure with an even larger one, thanks to the Super Soldier Serum.

Additionally, we encounter the beloved figure of Bucky Barnes prior to his transformation into the Winter Soldier. In an enjoyable sequence of events, Captain America emerges as the hero that America required in the tumultuous period of World War II.

Apart from this, the film features a top-notch antagonist through Hugo Weaving’s depiction of Red Skull. All in all, The First Avenger serves as an outstanding foundation for the series that unfolds subsequently.

Indeed, watching this film again can’t help but bring to mind the extraordinary developments ahead within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Consequently, it serves as an excellent introduction to the character, yet it seems somewhat understated when compared to the spectacular events that were to unfold in the future.

3. Captain America: Brave New World (2025)

Indeed, I’m fully cognizant of the fact. The latest addition to the Captain America franchise, titled Captain America: Brave New World, has garnered a poor rating, earning a “decaying tomato” on the combined review site, Rotten Tomatoes. It is also common knowledge that during its lengthy production process, extensive reshoots were carried out, which may have resulted in a film that deviates from the original vision.

Regardless of anything else, I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed my time watching “Brave New World“, and I believe it’s an excellent expansion for the series, much like how I view “Toy Story 4” as a fantastic addition to its franchise.

To put it simply, was the making of this movie really necessary? It’s debatable. Perhaps the story could have concluded more satisfactorily with just three movies. However, considering the quality of the previous films in the series, it’s safe to say that Brave New World is mostly a positive addition. And let me tell you, that’s not a bad thing at all.

In this fourth installment, picking up from where “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” left off, we find Sam Wilson assuming the role of Captain America. As the new Cap, he encounters various adversaries, including a fresh antagonist named Sidewinder, portrayed by Giancarlo Esposito, Red Hulk, played by Harrison Ford, and a villain I’ll save for those who haven’t watched the movie yet.

The movie might benefit from a tighter narrative, focusing more on the concept that Sam declines the Super Soldier Serum, with its accompanying dangers, being a significant aspect.

Regarding the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films released after “Endgame”, I find them incredibly entertaining and enjoyable. They deliver thrilling action sequences and an engaging storyline that falls somewhere in the middle. Perhaps my preference is influenced by Captain America’s choice between Sam and Bucky, but overall, this ranks as my third favorite Captain America film, which speaks volumes given how much I admire the first one.

2. Captain America: Civil War (2016)

As a movie enthusiast, I must say that “Captain America: Civil War” is nothing short of an epic spectacle that rivals the grandeur often associated with “Avengers 2.5”. This film delivers on all fronts, offering a thrilling and explosive cinematic experience.

In this movie, Captain America stands up for his companion Bucky, who is viewed as a dangerous figure globally, and joins forces with other superheroes to maintain their freelance status. Conversely, Tony Stark recognizes the potential hazards associated with their abilities and chooses to collaborate with the government. This difference of opinion leads to a division between them, sparking what is known as “The Civil War.

Although it may appear relatively insignificant in retrospect (year 2025), this movie was indeed the pivotal point where Black Panther and Spider-Man were initially brought into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Remarkably, even with the passage of time, Civil War maintains a sense of novelty in the way it introduced those characters.

Additionally, the topic remains just as pertinent today as it was in the past. Are you inclined to align yourself with Captain, who advocates that those wielding power can utilize it freely, provided they’re working towards the greater good?

Are you more likely to support Iron Man’s view that power needs to be restrained, considering the potential harm that may arise when these super-powered individuals engage in conflict? Regardless of your stance, it seems this perspective might mirror your political leanings, making for an intriguing indicator indeed. In any case, “Civil War” is a thoughtful, lively, and emotional film, but it falls just short of being the best Captain America movie due to one other production.

1. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

Come on now. You knew this had to be number one.

Generally regarded as among the top (and arguably the top) Marvel Cinematic Universe movies, “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” significantly altered the typical narrative structure of superhero films, similar to how “The Dark Knight” did.

This movie seems to have a blend that leans towards a spy thriller with superheroes, as opposed to your typical superhero film sprinkled with espionage elements.

In the movie, Captain America finds himself pursued by a fresh adversary, who turns out to be his old friend, Bucky, resurrected and under Hydra’s control due to mind manipulation. Throughout the film, Captain America endeavors to uncover the reasons behind this transformation, eventually discovering that the sinister organization Hydra exerts its influence far and wide.

For myself, this movie ignited my passion for the Marvel Cinematic Universe and its endless potential. Notably, it served as an impressive one-two combo since the groundbreaking film “Guardians of the Galaxy” followed shortly after, further enlarging the horizons of the MCU.

As a die-hard cinephile, let me tell you that “The Winter Soldier” simply resonates as the quintessential Captain America tale for me. Unlike other films in the genre, it doesn’t rely on its period setting or act as a platform for the Avengers ensemble. Instead, it delves deeply into the heart of our hero, Cap, with his long-lost friend Bucky Barnes at the core. The action sequences are relentlessly intense, leaving me with chills down my spine. Moreover, the political intrigue is handled masterfully, and every element harmoniously contributes to a flawless whole. In my humble opinion, “The Winter Soldier” stands tall as the best Captain America movie, a title I believe it will hold for a long time.

But, those are just my picks for the best Captain America movies. What are yours?

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2025-02-23 00:08