Marvel’s ‘The Falcon and The Winter Soldier’ (2021) dives deep into the lives of Sam Wilson and Bucky Barnes as they navigate a world after the Blip, grappling with the legacy of Captain America. The show blends high-octane action with heavy themes like race, identity, and power, making it a bold addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

While I enjoyed the chemistry between Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan, not everything landed smoothly. Some moments left me scratching my head, while others felt spot-on. Below, I break down five things that didn’t quite add up and five that worked perfectly.

Things That Made No Sense

Sharon Carter’s Power Broker Twist

Sharon Carter’s reveal as the Power Broker felt like a stretch. After helping Steve Rogers in ‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016), she’s suddenly a criminal mastermind running Madripoor? The shift from loyal agent to shady villain seemed forced, with little buildup to explain her drastic change.

It also didn’t help that her role felt underdeveloped. She pops up to save Sam and Bucky, but the show barely explores why she turned to a life of crime. The reveal landed flat, leaving me more confused than shocked.

Sam’s Smartphone Blunder

Sam Wilson, a seasoned Avenger, keeps his smartphone on during a covert mission in Madripoor. His sister’s call blows his cover, triggering chaos. For someone with military training, this rookie mistake felt out of character and like a lazy way to spark action.

The scene screamed plot convenience. A quick switch to silent mode could’ve avoided the mess, making Sam look careless instead of competent. It’s a small moment, but it bugged me.

The Flag Smashers’ Fuzzy Motives

The Flag Smashers, led by Karli Morgenthau, want a borderless world because life was better during the Blip. But their goals felt vague, jumping from noble ideals to random violence without clear reasoning. Why did they think blowing things up would fix global displacement?

Their inconsistent actions made it hard to root for or against them. The show tried to paint them as complex, but their murky motives left me disconnected from their cause.

Bucky’s Weak Showing

Bucky Barnes, a super-soldier who’s fought toe-to-toe with Captain America, gets outmatched too easily. He’s overpowered by John Walker and even the Dora Milaje, despite his enhanced strength and combat experience. It felt like the show nerfed him to prop up others.

This undercut Bucky’s established skills. I wanted to see the Winter Soldier shine, not struggle against foes he should’ve handled with ease. It made his arc less satisfying.

The Global Repatriation Council’s Role

The Global Repatriation Council pops up late in the show as a key player in the Flag Smashers’ conflict, but we get little context about who they are or what they do. Are they a government body? Why do they matter so much? Their sudden importance felt tacked on.

This lack of clarity made the stakes feel hollow. A bit more explanation early on could’ve tied the story together better, but instead, I was left puzzled.

Things That Made Perfect Sense

Sam’s Journey to Captain America

Sam Wilson’s arc from doubting himself to embracing the Captain America mantle was the heart of the show. His struggle with what the shield represents, especially as a Black man, felt real and grounded. His final speech to the world hit hard, showing why he’s the right choice.

The show took its time with Sam’s growth, letting him earn the title through action and conviction. I was cheering when he stepped up in that bold new suit.

John Walker’s Flawed Captain

John Walker as the new Captain America was a brilliant move. He’s not evil, just a soldier thrust into a role he couldn’t handle. His descent after losing Lemar Hoskins showed the pressure of the shield and how it doesn’t fit everyone.

Wyatt Russell nailed Walker’s mix of ambition and insecurity. It made perfect sense that a “perfect soldier” couldn’t match Steve Rogers’ heart, and I found his arc gripping.

Isaiah Bradley’s Tragic Story

Isaiah Bradley’s backstory as a Black super-soldier experimented on and forgotten was a gut punch. It mirrored real-world injustices, like the Tuskegee experiments, and added depth to the Captain America legacy. His scenes with Sam were some of the show’s strongest.

This storyline felt necessary, grounding the MCU in harsh realities. I was moved by Sam honoring Isaiah with a museum statue, giving him the recognition he deserved.

Sam and Bucky’s Chemistry

The banter between Sam and Bucky carried the show. Their bickering, like the therapy session or shield-throwing montage, felt like two friends who clash but care deeply. It made their partnership fun and believable.

Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan’s real-life friendship shone through, making every scene crackle. Their dynamic was a highlight I couldn’t get enough of.

Zemo’s Return

Bringing back Helmut Zemo was a smart choice. Daniel Brühl’s suave, scheming villain added spice, from his jailbreak to his dance moves in Madripoor. His hatred of super-soldiers tied neatly into the show’s themes.

Zemo felt like the perfect wildcard, stirring trouble while staying true to his beliefs. I loved how he stole scenes without overstaying his welcome.

What’s your take on ‘The Falcon and The Winter Soldier’? Which moments worked or flopped for you? Drop your thoughts in the comments!