When Anthony Mackie suited up as the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) new Captain America in 2021’s The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, his costume was a blend of his Falcon outfit and the iconic uniform worn by the original Cap, Chris Evans. However, Mackie is getting a whole new look for the upcoming Captain America 4: Brave New World – and it’s proving divisive amongst fans.

As Marvel Studios moves forward with the next Captain America film, debate is raging over Anthony Mackie’s new suit. Images leaked from the set of Captain America 4: Brave New World provide the best look yet at Mackie’s costume overhaul, which ditches prominent aspects of his previous outfit. 

Is Anthony Mackie’s New Suit an Improvement?

Captain America
Anthony Mackie has taken onto the shield from Steve Rogers

According to Dexerto, recently leaked images provide the best look so far at Anthony Mackie‘s overhauled Captain America uniform. Gone are the previous cowl and prominent white chest and shoulder panels, bringing the appearance closer to Evans’ stealth suit. “I feel like they’re trying to push the OG Cap look on Sam a little too hard,” criticized one fan. “There’s nothing wrong with keeping the Falcon Cap look.” However, others argue the stripped-down suit allows for improved movement. “It seems more built for movement. I just can’t wait to see him on screen again,” a supporter stated. 

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Anthony Mackie and Chris Evans
Anthony Mackie and Chris Evans

The shift away from Falcon’s iconic look has sparked intense debate in the fan community. While some have been vocal about preferring Anthony Mackie retain aspects of his original Captain America costume from the Disney+ series, others welcome the changes for practical reasons like easier stunt work and reduced CGI costs. Still, the divided response highlights the challenges of reinventing such an iconic character.

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Why Change the Suit at All?

Anthony Mackie in Captain America: Brave New World
Captain America: Brave New World will see Anthony Mackie as the new Cap

Scooper CanWeGetSomeToast speculated that the major costume change may have been motivated by production limitations. Reportedly, the previous cowl required extensive CGI manipulation to fix issues. “I think part of the reason why Marvel gave Captain America a new suit is to give the VFX artists a break,” they theorized. Of course, refreshing character looks also boosts merchandise sales. Here are a few more fan reactions: 

 

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The new costume leans harder into the classic Captain America aesthetic, but that creative decision has left some loyal to Falcon’s original appearance dissatisfied. Still, others welcome the changes as long as Mackie gets more screen time as the hero. With Captain America 4 not expected until 2025 at the earliest, debate over the suit is sure to continue raging amongst the fan community. 

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