[Review] ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ introduces important characters from Marvel Comics

Mackenzie Quinn, Editor-in-Chief|April 22, 2021

“The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” originally premiered on Disney Plus on Friday, March 19. The finale will be released on Friday, April 23.

Marvel’s “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” premiered on Disney Plus on Friday, March 19. They released weekly episodes ranging from 50 to 60 minutes. Five episodes have premiered so far, with the finale being released on Friday, April 23.

The show follows Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan) and Sam Wilson/Falcon (Anthony Mackie), as they deal with the aftermath of “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Avengers: Endgame.” It brings in characters from throughout the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe, like Sharon Carter (Emily VanCamp) and Baron Zemo (Daniel Brühl).

However, since the show is dealing with after-effects, there are several new and interesting characters. Like the overly patriotic, government-issued new Captain America, John Walker, played by Wyatt Russel. Or there’s the young and ambitious revolutionary Karli Morgenthau, played by Erin Kellyman.

With all these new characters and circumstances, there is the dual conflict of the new world and the new Captain America, all while Bucky and Sam deal with their own personal issues.

The representation of Bucky’s mental health and PTSD is both good and bad. His therapist’s methods are controversial, but his reactions to certain situations are perfect.

Sam, on the other hand, is dealing with a struggling family business, as well as the overlying racial issues that still exist in the new world that carried over from the past. That includes the mistreatment of black soldiers and veterans or being racially stereotyped and profiled.

The relationship between Bucky and Sam builds even more from their past movies together, which is key. They are not exactly working together, but working in the same vicinity. They are still growing as heroes and people.

While some of the writing and scenes feel forced, the character dynamics and chemistry are strong. The conflict is important to the show, but it is not everything. “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” is about the journey, it is about what happens next. In the end, the show will be remembered for making characters stronger and introducing important characters for the future.