After Marvel Studios finishes its run with the first new project of Phase 4, WandaVision , the Marvel Cinematic Universe will move into a more grounded and real-world-based show with The Falcon and the Winter Soldier . This six-episode adventure will pick up in a post- Avengers: Endgame world , dealing with the effects of the Infinity Saga, particularly in the case of Sam Wilson and Bucky Barnes.
Both Sam and Bucky were included in the half of the universe that was snapped out of existence in Avengers: Infinity War and were thrown straight into the battle of Avengers: Endgame that decided the fate of humanity. Even with multiple unique plotlines and characters to follow in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier , the series will serve as a lens into the two heroes' professional and personal lives as they rapidly adjust to a world in shambles.
Part of this will include Sam Wilson's ascent into the role of Captain America, which is being described as a defining moment for the MCU.
A CAPTAIN AMERICA FOR THE MODERN DAY
In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier head writer Malcolm Spellman addressed the fact that the MCU world will see a Black Captain America for the first time. He described that while the world may not be ready for it yet, Sam Wilson's transition into this role "just felt like a huge moment" in the course of the plot, saying:
"The idea of whether or not a Black man could become Captain America just felt like a huge moment and a huge opportunity."
Additionally, Spellman took a deep look at Sebastian Stans' Bucky Barnes, specifically how a man with his history will adapt even further into the 21st century. In this instance, the comedic tone of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier is coming through when imagining Bucky "deal(ing) with technology" from this day and age.:
"How does that guy function in 2021, in the times of today? And there's comedic parts: How does he deal with technology? Is this guy ordering Postmates at home?"
PHASE 4 MARKING A NEW ERA
Marvel Studios' second Disney+ project is set to tackle some issues that are very prevalent not only in the MCU but in the real world as well. One of these is seeing not only a new hero take on the mantle of Captain America but an African-American hero, as Steve Rogers lives his life potentially until the end of the line .
While the MCU has undoubtedly had its fair share of Black superheroes through the past dozen years, none of them have taken as much responsibility as Sam Wilson is about to take in this new show. With these six episodes tackling some potentially uncomfortable topics, it will be interesting to see the potential backlash and/or controversy that comes from Sam Wilson wielding Captain America's shield.
As for the comment on Bucky, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier will likely give the most depth to his story of any project yet. This will be especially entertaining as he experiences the same challenges that Captain America did in Captain America: The Winter Soldier where he adjusts to a modern world with his mind squared away. Along with other natural comedy that will come from the show's stars, this aspect to Bucky will bring its fair share of laughs .
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier will premiere on Disney+ on March 19, 2021.
