CHICAGO (WLS) — Anthony Mackie stars as the lead in “Captain America: Brave New World,” debuting in theaters just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Mackie sat down with ABC7 to discuss staking his claim in the Marvel Universe and gearing up for Mardi Gras in his hometown of New Orleans.
Sam is bringing a whole different vibe to Captain America.
“I rely on persuasion instead of resorting to physical violence to get out of tough spots,” explained Mackie. “This character embodies qualities like humanity, compassion, and understanding, making him stand out and easy for the audience to connect with. He represents the best in all of us, the epitome of an ordinary man. This is what Captain America truly embodies.”
And audiences get to see some mighty fine flying, too, that they’ve never seen done quite like this.
“Our director, Julius Onah, aimed to elevate the action sequences, flying scenes, and superhero costume to new heights,” Mackie added. “There were no boundaries set for us. We had the wings, shield, and suit at our disposal; the goal was to make everything top-notch.”
And it’s important to him to bring representation to the Marvel Universe?
“It’s not just important for Black kids to see a Black Captain America; it’s important for Latino Kids to see a Black Captain America, it’s important for white kids to see a Black Captain America,” he said. “We live in a different world now. I look in the backyard now and it looks like a little crayon box with all the kids running around out there. There’s an opportunity for the beauty of the world to infect the next generation.”
Mackie is a New Orleans native and promises this Mardis Gras season will be extra special.
“A celebration’s coming, it is going down!” he said. “If you all come down Bacchus Sunday, Shaq is our king this year. It’s gonna be a good time at Bacchus, so get your drink and enjoy Shaq rolling down St. Charles.”
And Mackie himself will be right behind him on the next float.
The first showings of “Captain America: Brave New World” begin the afternoon of Feb. 13.
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