The original hero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe wasn’t Iron Man, but rather the iconic World War II figure, Steve Rogers, also known as Captain America. With Rogers’ adventures coming to an end in Avengers: Endgame, the mantle of Captain America was passed on to Sam Wilson, formerly known as Falcon. However, some fans argue that Steve Rogers’ best friend, Bucky Barnes, might have been a more fitting successor in the current state of the MCU.
Bucky Barnes: A Deeper Connection to Captain America Lore
Narrative Potential: Bucky’s Redemption Story
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier focused on Sam Wilson’s journey as the new Captain America. While this brought strong themes, Bucky Barnes, with his history as the brainwashed Winter Soldier, presents a compelling narrative. Taking up the mantle could have been a redemption story, proving that he had overcome his dark past, providing a deeper and more emotional character arc.
Source Material: The Ed Brubaker Run
Bucky Barnes’ adventures as Captain America in the acclaimed Ed Brubaker run of comics offer well-liked source material. This source material could have provided more longevity to Bucky’s role as the new Captain America in the MCU, resonating with fans of the original comics.
Sam Wilson’s Tenure: A Questionable Heroic Journey
Erskine’s Dichotomy and Sam Wilson’s Morality
A quote from Professor Erskine about the difference between a good soldier and a good man raises questions about Sam Wilson’s suitability. Bucky Barnes, not originally focused on being a good soldier, had a complex past that could have added layers to his character as the new Captain America.
Questionable Morality: Sam Wilson’s Inconsistencies
Sam Wilson’s inconsistent moral stance, particularly defending the Flag-Smashers, raised eyebrows among fans. This perceived naivety and self-righteousness deviated from the moral integrity displayed by Steve Rogers and Bucky Barnes, creating uncertainty about Sam Wilson’s worthiness for the mantle.
Missed Opportunities for Bucky Barnes
Introducing the 1950s Captain America
Bucky Barnes’ extensive history and connections could have allowed the MCU to explore hidden events, such as the introduction of the 1950s Captain America, William Burnside. This narrative, impossible with Sam Wilson, would delve into Bucky’s past, providing a unique and engaging storyline.
Development and Leadership Role: Bucky as the Leader
The absence of a new Avengers movie has left a void in the MCU, and fan interest has waned. Bucky Barnes, with his popularity and longer history in the MCU, could have served as a charismatic leader, drawing in both old and new fans. His potential as the leader of an Avengers team is a missed opportunity for the current cinematic universe.
Conclusion: MCU’s Need for Bucky Barnes
As the MCU lacks a defined Avengers team and struggles with the absence of a new Captain America, the potential for Bucky Barnes to fill these gaps remains untapped. The missed opportunities in storytelling, character development, and fan engagement highlight the need for Bucky Barnes to have succeeded Steve Rogers in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
FAQs:
- Why did some fans feel that Bucky Barnes would be a better Captain America than Sam Wilson?
- Fans believed that Bucky Barnes had a deeper connection to Captain America lore, offering more narrative potential and a compelling redemption story.
- What source material could have added longevity to Bucky Barnes’ role as Captain America?
- The acclaimed Ed Brubaker run on Captain America comics provided well-liked source material, enhancing Bucky Barnes’ character in the MCU.
- What inconsistencies in Sam Wilson’s character raised concerns among fans?
- Sam Wilson’s inconsistent moral stance, particularly defending the Flag-Smashers, deviated from the moral integrity displayed by Steve Rogers and Bucky Barnes.
- Why could Bucky Barnes have introduced the 1950s Captain America?
- Bucky Barnes’ extensive history and connections could have allowed the exploration of hidden events, such as the introduction of the 1950s Captain America, William Burnside.
- How could Bucky Barnes have contributed to the Avengers’ fan-favorite roster?
- Bucky Barnes’ popularity and longer history in the MCU could have made him a charismatic leader, drawing in both old and new fans, filling the void left by the absence of a new Avengers movie.