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Harrison Ford, a name synonymous with iconic roles like Han Solo and Indiana Jones, is set to make a significant impact in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
At 82, Ford is stepping into the role of Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross in the upcoming filmCaptain America: Brave New World, scheduled for release on February 14, 2025.
This casting choice has generated considerable excitement among fans, especially with the revelation that Ford’s character will transform into the formidable Red Hulk.
Fans have been eagerly anticipating Ford’s addition to the MCU, especially as he takes over a role previously portrayed by the late William Hurt. The transition to Ford brings not only star power but also a new dynamic to Thaddeus Ross.
Marvel’s decision to involve Ford, a celebrated actor with decades of cinematic achievements, is a testament to their ambition to deliver stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s see what Ford has to say about it.
Thaddeus Rosshas been a recurring figure in Marvel comics and films, known for his stern demeanor and complex relationship with superheroes.
In the earlier Marvel Cinematic Universe films, Ross was portrayed as a military general who pursued the Hulk relentlessly, viewing Bruce Banner as a dangerous threat to society.
Over time, his role evolved into a political figure, reflecting his ambition and determination. InCaptain America: Brave New World, Ross reaches new heights, ascending to the presidency of the United States.
Ford’s portrayal of Ross introduces a new depth to the character, especially with his transformation into Red Hulk. As Ford revealed in interviews, this transformation is far from simple and involves external influences.
He hinted that the change into Red Hulk is not entirely voluntary, which suggests the involvement of other forces manipulating Ross. This detail adds an intriguing layer to Ross’s character, as he is forced to confront his physical transformation and the potential loss of control over his actions.
What’s the deal with Red Hulk?
For those unfamiliar, the Red Hulk is a prominent character in Marvel comics. Unlike the traditionalGreen Hulk, which results fromBruce Banner’s experiments with gamma radiation, the Red Hulk is created through a mix of science and external intervention.
Thaddeus Ross becomes the Red Hulk after undergoing a transformation that amplifies his strength, speed, and endurance to superhuman levels. However, the Red Hulk’s strength comes at a cost—his temper becomes uncontrollable, and his judgment often falters due to his immense rage.
In theMCU, Red Hulk’s introduction is highly anticipated because it represents a new kind of challenge for the heroes, particularly Sam Wilson’s Captain America. Unlike Steve Rogers, Sam Wilson doesn’t possess superhuman abilities, which makes facing a powerhouse like Red Hulk even more daunting.
This sets the stage for high-stakes action and dramatic tension between Ross and Wilson.
Captain America vs. Red Hulk
Sam Wilson’s Biggest Challenge
Anthony Mackie’s portrayal of Sam Wilson, who takes up the mantle of Captain America, has been a central focus of the MCU’s recentphase.
As a former Falcon, Wilson brings his unique abilities and advanced technology into the role. However, facingRed Hulkpresents a completely new challenge.
To level the playing field against Red Hulk’s immense strength, Wilson utilizes a vibranium wingsuit crafted in Wakanda. This wingsuit is more than just a tool for flight—it’s a powerful piece of technology designed to enhance Wilson’s agility and defense.
Producer Nate Moore explained that the wingsuit is essential for Sam to survive against an adversary as powerful as Red Hulk. Yet, even with this advanced technology, victory is far from guaranteed.
Visual effects supervisor Dan Cox shared that designing the fight scenes between Wilson and Red Hulk required careful choreography. The action sequences are crafted to highlight Wilson’s resourcefulness.
Unlike other heroes who rely on brute strength, Sam uses his tactical mind and tools like his shield and wings to evade and counter Red Hulk’s devastating attacks. This dynamic not only creates visually stunning battles but also emphasizes Wilson’s adaptability and resilience as the new Captain America.
The Relationship Between Ross and Wilson
One of the most intriguing aspects ofCaptain America: Brave New Worldis the dynamic between President Ross andSam Wilson.
Initially, the relationship appears collaborative, with Ross entrusting Wilson with the critical task of reassembling the Avengers. However, as the story progresses, tensions rise, revealing the political and moral conflicts between the two characters.
Ross’s transformation into Red Hulk serves as a physical manifestation of these conflicts. The ideological differences between Ross and Wilson dramatically come to a head, with their opposing views on leadership, power, and responsibility driving the narrative forward.
This clash promises to be a central theme in the film, providing both emotional depth and explosive action.
Bringing Red Hulk to Life
Behind the Scenes
Creating a character as visually complex as Red Hulk requires a combination of advanced visual effects and compelling performance.
Marvel’s visual development team, led by Ryan Meinerding, took great care in retaining human traits in Red Hulk’s design. They wanted to ensure that Thaddeus Ross’s personality remained visible even in his monstrous form.
Director Julius Onah emphasized that Red Hulk’s design would reflect his military background, incorporating a posture and movement style that conveyed his tactical mindset.
Ford played an active role in bringing Red Hulk to life, participating in motion-capture sessions to lend authenticity to the character’s movements. Despite his age, Ford embraced the physical demands of the role, performing some of his own stunts and working closely with the effects team.
His dedication to the character ensures that Red Hulk feels grounded and believable while retaining the larger-than-life qualities expected in a Marvelvillain.
Harrison Fordis dropping some juicy hints about what’s in store for his character, President Thaddeus Ross, inCaptain America: Brave New World.
In a recent chat withEmpire, Ford teased that Red Hulk, the monstrous, rage-fueled powerhouse fans are eager to see, might not have full control over his transformation.
Instead, it sounds like something—or someone—is pulling the strings behind Ross’s Gamma-powered chaos, making his destructive turn more about outside manipulation than a choice he willingly made.
Ford kept things mysterious, saying, “I don’t think I want to go very much into what the mechanism is and how he is being controlled. I don’t think that there’s a choice. Didn’t feel like it at the time.”
Looks like we’ll have to wait until the movie hits theaters to uncover what’s really going on with Red Hulk. But one thing’s for sure—this twist adds a whole new layer of intrigue to Ross’s story.
Captain America: Brave New WorldCast
Here’s the table with the “Notes” column removed:
Actor/Actress
Character
Harrison Ford
Thaddeus ‘Thunderbolt’ Ross / Red Hulk
Rosa Salazar
Rachel Leighton / Diamondback
Liv Tyler
Betty Ross
Giancarlo Esposito
Sidewinder
Anthony Mackie
Sam Wilson / Captain America
Tim Blake Nelson
Samuel Sterns / The Leader
Danny Ramirez
Joaquin Torres / Falcon
Xosha Roquemore
(Character Not Listed)
Shira Haas
Ruth Bat-Seraph / Sabra
Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson
Copperhead
Takehiro Hira
Prime Minister Ozaki
Colby Lopez
(Character Not Listed)
Carl Lumbly
Isaiah Bradley
Phuong Kubacki
(Character Not Listed)
Rachael Markarian
Presidential Aide
Marissa Chanel Hampton
Reporter Orah Fox
Jacqueline Loucks
Secret Service Agent #2
Tony Mareno
Navy Seal (Uncredited)
Zo’Anne Mckinstry
White House Press (Uncredited)
The table highlights the cast ofCaptain America: Brave New World
Conclusion
Ford takes on the role of Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, marking his first appearance in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Ross’s transformation into Red Hulk introduces a powerful new villain, with hints that this change may be influenced by external forces.
As the new Captain America, Sam Wilson faces his most formidable opponent yet, relying on a vibranium wingsuit to survive the encounter.
The film explores the evolving dynamic between Ross and Wilson, delving into themes of trust, leadership, and betrayal.
With its blend of action, drama, and character-driven storytelling,Captain America: Brave New Worldis poised to be a standout entry in the MCU.
Last Updated: December 24, 2024
