‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ Review - Who Will Pick Up the Shield?
Falcon and the Winter Soldier | Disney+
Avengers End Game might be one of the toughest movies to follow up. Most studios would be happy with its resounding success. They would never dare to piggyback off of the characters in order to generate shows. However, Marvel fans have always yearned for more of their favorite characters. This is part of the reason that Marvel has invested so much money and time in shows such as ‘ The Falcon and the Winter Solider’. It’s led by some recognizable characters in the Marvel Universe. Including Sam Wilson (the Falcon), Bucky Barnes (the Winter Soldier), and Sharon Carter. However repetitive the source material may appear, this show is existentially different. Instead of just being a run-of-the-mill good guy vs. bad guy. ‘The Falcon and the Winter Solider’ aims to dive a little deeper…
As opposed to being an attempt to take the reins for Captain America/Steve Rogers, it intends to chart a new course for the characters. One that seeks to justify the past actions of their Avenger teammates as well as find a future that they can fight for. All of this stands in the shadow of the “blip”, which made for a gratifying movie premise. But was not without its consequences on the Marvel Universe.
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The trickle-down consequences of the “blip” are conveyed through the group known as the “Flag Smashers”. They were negatively affected by the undoing of the “blip”. At the beginning of the show, they’re made out to be lunatics who “liked things better during the blip.” However, the story reaches deeper as their concerns are more accurately portrayed. Surprisingly, some people actually prospered during the “blip.” There was an abundance of resources, which allowed people to take care of themselves as well as their families. In order to rectify their perceived injustices, they set out on a path of no return. It’s an interesting premise for a show, especially considering Sam is the type of character who has an abundance of empathy.
Another addition to the mix is a new Captain America, played by Wyatt Russell. He almost immediately comes off as an annoying and pretentious replacement for someone who could never be replaced, Steve Rogers. He only makes matters worse as he tries to justify his position by making ever increasingly dangerous decisions. During Avengers Endgame, all signs alluded towards Sam picking up the shield. However, Sam’s reluctance to pick up the shield after Steve Rogers adds a taste of bitterness to the audience.
John Walker (Wyatt Russell) in a scene from Falcon and the Winter Soldier. PHOTO BY MARVEL STUDIOS
If you’ve always been a fan of Sam and Bucky’s dynamic, then this show will be the icing on the cake. Excellently played by Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan, whose on-screen bromance is undeniable. Their bromance continues to blossom throughout the show, which also acts as a very effective comedic relief element. Action with a hint of comedy has always been a strength of the Marvel Universe.
All of these elements culminate in a compelling show, which strives to carry Captain America as well as the Winter Soldier into the future. A goal that is attained by taking a different approach towards saving lives in the Marvel Universe, while minimizing unintended consequences. Sam’s impact on this show and the future of the Marvel Universe is undeniable. His call to action is hands down one of the best speeches ever given in a Marvel movie or show.
