Note: This review is entirely spoiler-free

The Falcon and the Winter Soldier premiered on Friday, March 19, on Disney+. This show looked to premiere in 2021 in part of Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Phase 4 of the MCU is the first period post-Avengers and began with the series Wandavision, also on Disney+. TFATWS stars Anthony Mackie as Falcon/Sam Wilson and Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes/The Winter Soldier.

This show is a masterpiece that deals with so much more than high-flying kicks and metal arm punches. The protagonist duo of Sam and Bucky both have to deal with the aftermath of the departure of their close friend Steve Rogers, the old Captain America. Sam battles racial implications with the identity of Captain America, and Bucky attempts to correct his wrongdoings that occurred when he was the Winter Soldier. 

The chemistry between Stan and Mackie is a centerpiece of the show. While they are both reputable actors in their own right, their skills and real-life personalities flourish when put together. Throughout the series, some scenes were improvised, and the duo went off script, making for a funnier and more engaging interaction. This duo is notorious for being best friends outside of work, and their interviews together are never short of entertaining (I recommend watching some on YouTube). 

TFATWS is an action-genre series at its core and naturally includes fantastic fight scenes. Every episode includes great sequences that feel powerful and quick, which builds up suspense and tension over the fight’s result. The music, sound effects, and cinematography during the disputes create a euphoric atmosphere in which the audience can enter.

This Disney+ series is a can’t-miss, especially for fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier combines humor, action, and social issues to create a thought-provoking and entertaining story that all kinds of audiences should enjoy.