The Marvel Universe continues to surprise with its latest entry: ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’

Katherine Daly, Staff Writer

The latest series from Marvel, “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” premiered on Disney+ on March 19. After the dust settles from the events of Marvel’s “Avengers: Endgame, the series sees the resolved duo of the “Winter Soldier” Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) and “Falcon” Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) struggle with everyday life. As they fight over simple things such as bank loans to complex issues from their experiences such as PTSD, they try to find their place in the world without good old Captain America and simply work out what it means to move forward. 

 

Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan play their parts well which slowly draws the viewer into the show. The intro action sequence was spectacular and showcases what the Falcon can really do. Bucky, on the other hand, becomes more human, which is intriguing. He’s now a free man weighted with guilt as he tries to right the wrongs he once committed and feels left behind. Bucky is seen taking the help of a counselor with the hope of bettering himself after his long period of being a pawn to Hydra. 

 

The first episode was well-packed with action, a bit of humor and loads of emotion. It opens new horizons and shines a light on how Sam and Bucky are continuing their lives after the events of Endgame. It’s neat to watch Sam fight crime while supporting his family on the side. 

 

A small flaw was the weak pseudo–Captain America created by the government. It’s meant to be a plot device to move our characters forward a bit quicker. It’s used as a clock because now time is ticking for our heroes to do something. 

 

Overall, this show provides intriguing themes of legacy and how people waver under the pressure of filling someone else’s shoes. The show delivers on a simple premise, but it leaves plenty of room for questioning. It’s a well-meaning show with great action, a dark tonal shift and an organic, memorable feeling.