The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is set to introduce a compelling new character in Captain America: Brave New World, whose potential as a recurring antagonist is significant. As such, it is crucial that this character isn’t eliminated in this upcoming Phase 5 film. The cast of Brave New World boasts a blend of fresh talent and established MCU veterans, with Anthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson once again taking up the Captain America mantle. In this installment, Wilson is poised to confront greater challenges than his predecessor, Steve Rogers, ever faced.
The narrative of Captain America: Brave New World revolves around a sprawling global conspiracy entailing rogue governments, a malevolent scientist, and at least two Gamma mutates. Notably, Captain America will face off against three prominent MCU adversaries: the transformative threat of President Ross becoming Red Hulk, the ominous presence of Samuel Sterns, also known as The Leader, who is likely the primary villain, and lastly, Giancarlo Esposito’s Sidewinder, who will have distinct motives against Captain America’s efforts. Esposito has shared his enthusiasm for his role, expressing hopes to embody more of Sidewinder’s “serpent persona”in future appearances:
“Part of the incorporation of Sidewinder’s colors I brought into the costume that I’m wearing. I’m hoping that it gives them inspiration in movies to come that will allow me to take on more of that serpent persona. You’ve never seen me play a character like this. This guy knows how to use a rifle, a pistol, knives, [he is] very, very physical, active with his physicality, punches, kicks, all that.”
Giancarlo Esposito’s Sidewinder: A Character Rich with Possibilities
A Captain America Foe Who Deserves More Screen Time
Giancarlo Esposito has made a name for himself with memorable villainous roles, including Gustavo Fring in Breaking Bad and Moff Gideon in The Mandalorian. He is poised to bring this expertise to the role of Seth Voelker, a.k.a. Sidewinder, who leads the terrorist organization known as the “Serpent Society.”However, it seems that Sidewinder may not have as extensive a role as President Ross or the Leader, raising concerns about his future in the MCU.
In the comics, Sidewinder is portrayed as one of the most formidable members of the Serpent Society. His character has manipulative prowess, having both founded and enhanced the original Serpent Squad, which evolved into the larger Serpent Society, collaborating with other villains and battling heroes like Captain America and Iron Man.
Hints of a Full-Fledged Serpent Society in the MCU
The Serpent Society’s Long-Awaited Role as Antagonists
Marvel Studios initially teased the Serpent Society’s presence in the MCU during the 2014 San Diego Comic-Con when they announced a false title, “Captain America: Serpent Society, ”leading to heightened anticipation for the actual reveal. Despite Captain America’s subsequent films, Steve Rogers didn’t confront this classic set of villains. In fact, his encounters with iconic foes such as Batroc or Crossbones were minimal.
As Sam Wilson steps into the role of Captain America, it appears the Serpent Society will only have a fleeting role in Brave New World. The film tends to focus on more recognizable threats like Red Hulk and The Leader. If significant characters like Sidewinder meet their end or if the Serpent Society disbands, it could mean yet another missed opportunity to explore classic adversaries within Captain America’s narrative.
Opportunities for Sidewinder and the Serpent Society in Future Films
The Serpent Society as a Unique Antagonistic Force
Following the events of Captain America: Brave New World, in which Wilson faces Red Hulk and The Leader, the potential for a standalone film featuring the Serpent Society as the main villains rises. This would not only showcase a more cohesive narrative but also present Captain America with a unique and organized group of antagonists. A future installment, potentially titled Captain America 5, could realize the Serpent Society’s full potential, revamping them as a modern equivalent to Hydra.
|
Captain America MCU Appearance |
Main Antagonist |
Secondary Antagonist |
|---|---|---|
|
Captain America: The First Avenger |
Red Skull |
Arnim Zola |
|
The Avengers |
Loki |
The Chitauri |
|
Captain America: The Winter Soldier |
Alexander Pierce |
The Winter Soldier |
|
Avengers: Age of Ultron |
Ultron |
Baron von Strucker |
|
Captain America: Civil War |
Helmut Zemo |
Iron Man |
|
Avengers: Infinity War |
Thanos |
The Black Order |
|
Avengers: Endgame |
Thanos |
The Black Order |
| Captain America: Brave New World | The Leader | Red Hulk, The Serpent Society |
In summary, Sidewinder’s inclusion in Captain America: Brave New World could set the stage for a potential sequel that explores the Serpent Society further. This not only promises a fresh narrative direction but also allows Sam Wilson to fully establish his own identity without overshadowing influences from established villains.
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