Captain America: Brave New World Fans Should Watch The Classic That Inspired It

Captain America: Brave New World Fans Should Watch The Classic That Inspired It

As a long-time fan of Marvel movies and a devoted student of film history, I’ve grown to appreciate the unique ways in which Marvel Studios infuses other genres into their superhero tales. The MCU thrives when it strays from the beaten path and tackles new ground, like the sci-fi action comedy of “Guardians of the Galaxy,” the martial arts fantasy of “Shang-Chi,” or the metal-inspired epic of “Thor: Ragnarok.” Among these genre-bending films, “Captain America: Brave New World” stands out as a political thriller that seems to pay homage to a classic in the genre – John Frankenheimer’s 1962 masterpiece, “The Manchurian Candidate.”


Marvel films such as “Captain America: Brave New World” shine when they blend elements from different genres. For instance, “Guardians of the Galaxy” is a hilarious combination of sci-fi and action. “Shang-Chi” brings martial arts and fantasy to life. “Thor: Ragnarok” is an epic inspired by heavy metal music. The political thriller “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” serves as a model for “Brave New World,” which also draws influence from the classic film “The Manchurian Candidate” by John Frankenheimer (1962).

It’s surprising how simple it is for Marvel to address the recurring criticisms of their monotony. Each film seems identical due to the studio’s frequent interference with creators’ visions. Filmmakers only need to stay true to their muse. If Marvel granted them the freedom to introduce fresh and captivating elements to the series, similar to how comic book writers developed beloved characters, the movies would consistently keep audiences hooked. Marvel inadvertently disappoints fans with every uninspired superhero production.

How does Captain America: Brave New World connect to The Manchurian Candidate?

As an assistant gamer, I’ve been eagerly anticipating the latest Captain America installment, “Brave New World.” The trailer gave us a sneak peek into the intricate storyline that has been kept under wraps. Although many aspects are still veiled in secrecy, the general flow of events is beginning to take shape. According to Marvel’s official description, I, Sam Wilson, find myself at the heart of an international crisis and must use my skills to put a stop to it. Dedicated fans might already have an idea or two about who’s behind this predicament. The trailer offered us a glimpse into the potential crisis itself. Intriguingly, Carl Lumbly brings Isaiah Bradley to life on screen, a character we met in “Falcon and the Winter Soldier.”

I’m a gamer, and let me tell you, Bradley is one of the most intriguing characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, despite not getting enough screen time yet. I identify with him as an African American super soldier who endured unethical experiments by the US military during the Korean War. We were both held captive for years alongside other enhanced men, and our fates were far from glorious.

What is The Manchurian Candidate about?

Captain America: Brave New World Fans Should Watch The Classic That Inspired It
Director John Frankenheimer
Writer George Axelrod
Stars Frank Sinatra, Laurence Harvey, Janet Leigh, Angela Lansbury
Release Date October 24, 1962

I’m a big fan of John Frankenheimer’s “The Manchurian Candidate,” a gripping adaptation of Richard Condon’s 1959 novel. This political thriller has left an indelible mark on cinema, despite the fact that Condon’s book was less appreciated. The storyline is sharp, satirical, and filled with paranoia – a masterclass in political skullduggery.

Is The Manchurian Candidate remake worth watching?

Captain America: Brave New World Fans Should Watch The Classic That Inspired It

In 2004, renowned director Jonathan Demme brought his unique interpretation to “The Manchurian Candidate.” Due to the evolving political landscape of the early 21st century, significant adjustments were required. In this adaptation, Denzel Washington portrays the role originally held by Sinatra, while Liev Schreiber steps into Shaw’s shoes. A notable change is Meryl Streep’s addition to the cast, taking on the part for which Angela Lansbury earned an Oscar. As a standalone production, “The Manchurian Candidate” retains its gripping and potent essence. Although it shares intensity and engagement with the original, it lacks many of the shocking elements that made the first film so impactful. The climax is equally surprising, but for entirely different reasons. As audiences began to grow weary of remakes during this period, Demme’s take on the classic thriller received a lukewarm box office response. Despite being a strong film in its own right, it cannot quite match the original’s iconic status.

The Manchurian Candidate is a film that significantly expands a viewer’s perspective upon first watch. This thought-provoking classic has inspired countless references, allusions, and visual echoes in various comedies, scholarly analyses, and other thrillers. Many films have borrowed elements from its groundbreaking influence. Captain America: Brave New World appears to draw inspiration from it, and fans may gain a deeper appreciation for it after viewing The Manchurian Candidate. However, most thrillers will offer more enrichment to viewers who have seen this influential film.

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2024-07-26 02:04