It might be time for Anthony Mackie and Harrison Ford to brace themselves.
Marvel has debuted the fourth chapter in a previously-adored franchise, but early reviews suggest that critics are far from impressed with Captain America: Brave New World.
This film marks Mackie’s debut as the lead character, with Ford stepping into the dual roles of the President and the Red Hulk.
What’s fueling the dismal reviews? Why aren’t critics rushing to shield this new entry? Continue reading to explore the findings…

Similar to previous Captain America films, this installment aims for a tense political thriller vibe, achieving it to some extent, but suffers from awkward dialogue and an aversion to being overtly political. — Fat Guys at the Movies
It feels like the MCU is on autopilot; while it means everything runs smoothly, it doesn’t venture into particularly exciting territory. — Tom’s Guide
I never thought I would find a Marvel movie to be lacking in superheroes, yet Brave New World feels sparse with just one, especially a character who seems easily capable of perishing in battle. — MullingMovies.com
Mackie gives his all with his vibranium wings, but the expected Marvel charm seems to falter in this film. Marvel and Disney continue to chase that elusive ‘Brave New World’ vibe; hopefully, it will manifest in the next installment. — Movies and Shakers

Mackie has undeniable charisma and star quality, yet his portrayal seems somewhat reserved, lacking memorable character moments that would allow him to truly shine. — Detroit News
For the MCU to regain its past glory within the blockbuster realm, it needs to present more compelling characters and narratives than those found in Captain America: Brave New World. — Culture Map
Compared to other recent missteps, this new addition at least stands as moderately acceptable. — Newsday
This film, much like the MCU itself in recent times, operates mainly on autopilot; Captain America may still embody something meaningful, but Brave New World certainly does not. — Cinemaholics

Visually, Brave New World lacks the vibrancy of its predecessors, suffering from unnecessary editing, weak digital backgrounds, and awkward composition; thematically, it lacks confident and coherent messaging. — Paste Magazine
It’s been a while since a Marvel film felt structurally sound and vital. Even with its shortcomings, Captain America: Brave New World offers a glimmer of promise that perhaps the series is rediscovering its essence. — Austin Chronicle
What sets apart “Captain America: Brave New World,” a brief film under two hours, is its minimal action, allowing actors to explore and develop their otherwise flat characters, including Danny Ramirez as Falcon. — San Francisco Chronicle
Brave New World feels like a collection of characters searching for purpose, as the Marvel machinery creaks in its effort to create a grand narrative around these less prominent figures. — Vanity Fair