In an interview with THR, Spellman talked about Isaiah, an aging Korean War veteran and test subject of the super soldier serum back in the 1950s. “Isaiah is the living embodiment of Sam’s doubt,” Spellman explained. “Isaiah tells the truth. And at no point do we absolve this country for the sins that it committed against Isaiah and the sins that it will continue to commit against Black and Brown people.”
Unlike the other survivors of the serum, Bradley was treated as a test subject, being imprisoned and experimented upon, until eventually being freed by a nurse declaring Bradley dead through fake reports.
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When Bucky Barnes, the former enemy of Bradley during his time as the Winter Soldier, introduces Sam Wilson to the retired super soldier, Sam takes to the man. “[Isaiah Bradley] so purely embodies other discussions,” stated Spellman. “[Bradley, among others] embody what it’s like to be discarded after dedicating yourself to something that is for the people.”
Spellman continued, “Sam has to confront [the fear of his doubt], and what was interesting about it is that the hero normally slays that dragon in a ‘hero story.’ Walking into Isaiah’s house with that shield is Sam with the talisman. It’s Sam confronting the dragon, and he doesn’t slay the dragon. He confronts it, and the dragon is as righteous and true as it ever was. So in the face of that, he still had to decide whether or not to become Cap.”
Ultimately, Sam Wilson leaves with the shield in hand, and goes on to train for the role of Captain America, finally making his debut under the moniker in the finale of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, “One World, One People.” Sam goes on to memorialize Isaiah Bradley in the episode’s final moments, unveiling a tribute monument and memorial in Bradley’s honor to the veteran and his son.
When Spellman was asked whether or not he would be willing to discuss and seriously consider a prequel project dedicated to Isaiah Bradley, he was quick to answer, “For sure.”
Directed by Kari Skogland, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier stars Anthony Mackie, Sebastian Stan, Emily VanCamp, Wyatt Russell, Noah Mills, Carl Lumbly and Daniel Brühl. The entire first season is available to stream on Disney+.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
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