Premiered: March 19, 2021

On: Disney+

Starring: Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie, Wyatt Russell, Erin Kellyman, Danny Ramirez, Georges St-Pierre, Adepero Oduye, Don Cheadle, Daniel Brühl, Emily VanCamp, Clé Bennett, Carl Lumbly, Florence Kasumba & Julia Louis-Dreyfus

Though it benefits from Marvel’s large budget, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier is powerful because of its political and social commentary.

Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) decides not to become Captain America much to the dismay of friend Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), which leaves the government to choose their own in John Walker (Wyatt Russell). Sam and Bucky work against the Flag Smashers who believe life in the Blip was better.

While the series looks gorgeous, it falters with its story. There are so many characters and plotlines in a six-episode span from different Marvel projects and those being newly introduced.

However, Mackie is brilliant. Showing the struggles of being black in America and figuring out what being a black Captain America means gives Marvel a deeper aesthetic than normal.

Final say: The strong parts shine through the complications. ★★★☆☆