With “Captain America: Brave New World” hitting theaters in early 2025, the Marvel Cinematic Universe once again places politics at the heart of its traditional “superhero” narrative. This latest installment is more than just an action-packed blockbuster — it serves as a reflection of contemporary anxieties about leadership, nationalism, media influence and the struggle for power in modern America.

At a time when the real-world political climate is as turbulent as ever, the film’s themes resonate deeply with ongoing debates regarding the role of government, the perception of national identity and the responsibilities of those in power. While Marvel films have always been laced with political undertones, “Brave New World” leans into them more explicitly, making it a particularly timely entry into the franchise.

The title of “Captain America” has always carried weight beyond the MCU. The character, introduced in the 1940s as a propaganda tool against Nazi Germany, has evolved into a complex symbol of American identity. Steve Rogers, the original Captain America, represented an idealized version of American heroism — noble, self-sacrificing and unwavering in his morals. However, Sam Wilson’s transition into the role brings new challenges, particularly in an era where the idea and global identity of America itself is increasingly contested.

Wilson, a Black man taking on the mantle, confronts questions of legitimacy and representation. His storyline echoes real-world debates regarding who gets to define American identity and whether traditional symbols of patriotism can evolve to be more inclusive. This tension was previously explored in the television spin-off “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” where Wilson faced skepticism from both the government and segments of the public. In “Brave New World,” these themes continue, forcing audiences to consider what it truly means to be  “Captain America” in 2025.

One of the film’s most striking political parallels is demonstrated in the character of President Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, played by Harrison Ford. Ross, a former military figure with authoritarian tendencies, has now ascended to the presidency — a development that immediately invites comparisons to real-world leaders who have used national security as justification for consolidating power.

Ross’s actions in “Brave New World” — including the push for control over Adamantium, a powerful new resource discovered in the Indian Ocean — mirror the ways in which global leaders maneuver for dominance over scarce resources. Ultimately, Ross had no issue displaying the “dominance” of the military power of the United States, easily turning on what were once considered his allies in order to ensure the U.S. remained economically ahead. His transformation into the Red Hulk can be seen as a metaphor for the consequences of unchecked ambition, symbolizing the dangers of prioritizing personal strength and power over democratic principles.

The film’s depiction of Ross as a controversial, polarizing figure draws clear connections to the broader political landscape, where debates over executive power, military influence in government and the role of nationalism continue to shape current public discourse.

The central conflict in “Brave New World” revolves around the discovery of Adamantium, a rare and powerful metal that multiple factions seek to control. This plotline reflects real-world geopolitical tensions over natural resources such as oil, rare earth minerals and even water — commodities that fuel economic and military competition on a global scale.

Just as Adamantium becomes a battleground for power in the film, real-world nations grapple with resource control in ways that influence international relations, trade policies and military conflicts. The film demonstrates that those in power — whether governments, corporations or individual leaders — often prioritize resource acquisition over ethical considerations, a theme that extends beyond fiction into current-day global politics.

Another striking aspect of “Brave New World” is how it portrays the role of the media in shaping public opinion. In the age of social media and hyper-partisan news cycles, the battle for public perception is as crucial as any physical conflict. The MCU has explored this theme before — particularly in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” and “Spider-Man: No Way Home” — but “Brave New World” takes it further by examining how leaders manipulate narratives to maintain control.

President Ross faces an assassination attempt early in the film, an event that becomes a rallying point for his supporters while deepening distrust among his critics. The way this incident is framed in the media highlights the power of political storytelling, where truth can be shaped by those with the loudest voices.

The film also raises questions about how leaders manufacture crises to justify greater authority — a tactic that has been observed in real-world politics, where leaders often use national security threats as a means of expanding executive power.

While “Brave New World” presents fresh political parallels, it also builds on themes established in previous MCU films. For example, “Black Panther” explored the idea of isolationism versus global cooperation. The fight for Adamantium in “Brave New World” echoes similar debates regarding whether powerful resources should be controlled by a single nation or shared for the greater good.

“Captain America: Brave New World” is not just another superhero film — it’s a reflection of modern political struggles. Its exploration of leadership, nationalism, media influence and resource wars speaks directly to the challenges facing the real world in 2025.

The phrase “Captain America” itself carries immense weight. In an increasingly polarized era where patriotism is often politicized, the film asks whether one person can truly represent an entire nation’s values. With Sam Wilson at the helm, the MCU presents a Captain America who must navigate a world where unity feels increasingly elusive — a challenge that mirrors the real-world struggle to reconcile different visions of what America stands for.

Ultimately, “Brave New World” challenges audiences to think critically about the power structures shaping their own reality. In doing so, it continues Marvel’s tradition of blending entertainment with political commentary, proving that even superhero films can have something profound to say about the world we live in.