On Friday, April 23, people all over the U.S. set their alarms and woke up early to watch the long-awaited finale of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. For many, this show has given them something to look forward to every Friday. However, for all, the series’ relevant themes resonate deeply with the pertinent issues Americans from all walks of life are facing. 

The show follows the Falcon, Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie), and the Winter Soldier, Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), trying to navigate life without Steve Rogers as Captain America. Overall, the show focuses on upholding the legacy of Cap, as the new Captain America, John Walker (Wyatt Russell), tries to live up to his predecessor. The show contains appearances from many well-known Marvel characters including Baron Zemo, Agent Sharon Carter, and the Dora Milaje from Wakanda. With many plot twists and intense action sequences, the series leaves all levels of Marvel fans satisfied. Freshman Sam Cohen, a Marvel superfan, stated “I really enjoyed The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, I thought it had great action and a good plot. I also thought it had a strong ending with the Falcon becoming Captain America.” Cohen also sees a bright future for the MCU: “I’m excited to see what they do with the U.S. Agent [John Walker] and the Power Broker [Sharon Carter]. I think it set up the future of their storylines very well, especially the Falcon.”   

While the show pleases Marvel fans, it also appeals to a wide audience of Americans with its focus on issues entrenched in American society. The show often confronts tough topics such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), financial struggles, racial profiling, and systemic racism. As a whole, the series’ primary focus is whether or not America is ready for a Black Captain America. Throughout the series, Sam Wilson struggles with this question, especially after talking to Isaiah Bradley, a Black super soldier who was experimented on and imprisoned while Steve Rogers was America’s hero. Warned by Bradley about the unjust nature of the American system, Wilson becomes discouraged and believes that America does not have the tolerance for a Black national icon. Another incident that furthers his apprehension is when he is racially profiled by the police while he walks down the street arguing with Bucky. This scene particularly resonates with Americans after the recent “social awakening” and the nationwide acknowledgment of systemic racism, especially in the policing system.    

Overall, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier left fans satisfied. In particular, it truly made its mark with how relatable it was for many Americans. Its ending of a Black man officially becoming the next Captain America serves as an important symbol for racial justice and equality. While this may only be the second Marvel movie with a Black main character, it is a big step forward to have an iconic American hero played by a person of color.