Anthony Mackie, set to debut as Captain America in Captain America: Brave New World next year, recently shared fascinating insights about his journey and inspirations. Speaking at the Disney APAC Content Showcase in Singapore, Mackie recounted how he discovered he would inherit the shield. Chris Evans, the former Captain America, surprised him during a football game by handing over the script pages revealing Steve Rogers' iconic torch-passing scene in Avengers: Endgame. “We hugged each other and jumped around in a circle,” Mackie fondly recalled.
Interestingly, Mackie admitted he wasn't a comic book fan before joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe. “A lot of people might not like this, but I've never read comics,” he revealed. Instead, his love for animated shows like Teen Titans shaped his childhood. His favorite superhero, however, has always been the Hulk. Mackie admired the Hulk's raw power and complexity but confessed a common fan gripe: “How come everything came off except the pants?”
As the first Captain America without super-soldier serum, Mackie emphasized the unique approach his character, Sam Wilson, brings to the role. “With the serum, you can fight anybody. Without it, you have to be smart,” he explained. Sam's counselor background and community leadership define his approach, relying more on wit and strategy than brute force.
This evolution reflects Mackie's vision for a more relatable and modern Captain America, one who connects with people on a deeper level. His portrayal promises to showcase a grounded, empathetic hero navigating the complexities of leadership in today's world.
Anthony Mackie's perspective on Captain America is both refreshing and inspiring. His candid storytelling and unexpected love for the Hulk show his authenticity, making him a relatable figure for fans. The decision to highlight Sam Wilson's counseling background and strategic approach enriches the character, moving away from the traditional image of a super-powered leader.
I appreciate how Mackie embraces Sam's humanity, creating a Captain America grounded in empathy and intellect. This shift challenges traditional superhero tropes and aligns with contemporary values. It will be exciting to see how Captain America: Brave New World explores these themes and resonates with audiences.
What do you think about Anthony Mackie's approach to portraying Captain America? Does a non-superpowered hero make the role more compelling?
