Anthony Mackie Embraces Captain America Role, Inspires Students in New Orleans
By Corbin Johnson
Anthony Mackie is stepping into the spotlight as the new Captain America in Captain America: Brave New World, his first solo film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). As the first Black actor to take on the mantle in a leading role, Mackie’s portrayal carries cultural significance, redefining what it means to be a hero. Amid anticipation for the film, Mackie took time to visit New Orleans, where he engaged with students from Xavier University of Louisiana and Dillard University in a special talkback session.
During the event, Mackie was interviewed by New Orleans artist BMike, delving into the film’s
personal significance and the influence of his upbringing on his career.
“Growing up in New Orleans, NOCCA was a very transformative school,” Mackie said, referring to the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. “It was different over there—my teacher taught me Shakespeare and how to break down movies. The experience I had from ninth to eleventh grade was so informative that I wanted to travel the world and see what else the acting industry had to offer.”
Mackie emphasized the importance of community and how it helped him build long-lasting connections in his career. As a New Orleans native, he learned the value of giving back. He started by helping elderly couples repair their roofs and spent his summers volunteering in the community.
“It was great having him here and talking to the students,” said Anandi Rousseau, a senior biology pre-med major at Xavier University of Louisiana and local event volunteer. “It’s important to have more films focused on Black superheroes—whether they have powers or not—and show how they can inspire kids to be heroes themselves.”
Captain America: Brave New World follows Sam Wilson (Mackie) as he confronts a global threat, marking his transition from a supporting role to the forefront. The film has received mixed reviews and holds a 49% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. A consensus of critics from Rotten Tomatoes notes that while Mackie adeptly takes on the mantle of Captain America, the film feels “too routine and overstuffed with uninteresting Easter eggs to feel like a worthy standalone adventure.”
Despite the critical reception, the movie has performed well at the box office, grossing $88.5 million domestically over its opening weekend and reaching a projected $100 million over the Presidents’ Day holiday. Globally, it has amassed approximately $192.4 million in its initial weekend.
The casting of a Black actor as Captain America carries cultural significance. Mackie addressed the impact in an interview with Ebony, saying, “Captain America represents the best of all of us, not just one group of people—all people.” His portrayal challenges traditional norms and expands representation of heroism, inspiring diverse audiences.
Mackie hopes his new Captain America film will show audiences that being a hero isn’t about having superpowers or surviving a life-altering accident. Instead, heroism is defined by actions—fighting for justice and advocating for the underrepresented.
Captain America: Brave New World promises to be an action-packed, emotional adventure with Sam Wilson at the center. Mackie hopes the film will inspire younger generations to serve their communities and embrace their roles as future leaders, proving that anyone can be a hero.
Jasmyn Thweatt, a sophomore premedical psychology major at Xavier University of Louisiana, attended the session and shared her excitement.
“As someone who grew up watching Marvel movies, it was a great opportunity to hear his thoughts and experience making the film,” she said. “I found it inspiring when he discussed his journey in the industry. Even though I’m not from New Orleans, it was amazing to see someone from here come back, show pride in his home, and share his story with us.”
