New ‘Captain America: Civil War’ Synopsis Splits the Avengers

Thanks to the source material, trailers and cast and director interviews, we already know what causes the divide between the Avengers in Captain America: Civil War. Marvel has released a new official synopsis that’s a bit more informative than the previous description, teasing Tony Stark’s “surprising decision,” though it seems like Steve Rogers is the one who’s subverting our expectations.

His name is Captain America — it’s right there in his superhero title, which is what makes the Civil War story so interesting. The guy with the patriotic name is the one fighting against our (fictional) government! Meanwhile, the billionaire weapons expert is doing about what you’d expect from the one percent by siding with General Ross. Whatever keeps those pockets fat, right?

Anyway, here’s Marvel’s second, more explanatory synopsis for Civil War:

Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War” finds Steve Rogers leading the newly formed team of Avengers in their continued efforts to safeguard humanity. But after another incident involving the Avengers results in collateral damage, political pressure mounts to install a system of accountability, headed by a governing body to oversee and direct the team. The new status quo fractures the Avengers, resulting in two camps—one led by Steve Rogers and his desire for the Avengers to remain free to defend humanity without government interference, and the other following Tony Stark’s surprising decision to support government oversight and accountability.

Robert Downey Jr. and Chris Evans reprise their roles as Iron Man and Captain America, leading the divided Avengers in a war against one another, with Scarlett Johansson, Elizabeth Olsen, Anthony Mackie, Jeremy Renner, Sebastian Stan and Don Cheadle also returning. Chadwick Boseman and Tom Holland will make their MCU debuts as Black Panther and Spider-Man, respectively, with Daniel Bruhl starring as the villainous Baron Zemo and Martin Freeman in a mystery role.