7 Tiny Details From Comic Book Movies Only True Fans Noticed

5. The First Avenger, Foreshadowing, And The Original Human Torch

Captain America The First Avenger Human Torch
Marvel Studios

The MCU is no stranger to a bit of sneaky foreshadowing, and when you throw in a trove of easter eggs and references, every film is guaranteed to cater to Marvel's biggest fans in some way or another.

When it comes to Joe Johnston's first Captain America however, the references go into overdrive. First off is a blink and you'll miss it cameo featuring the original android Human Torch - a character who, in the comics, fought alongside Cap, Bucky and Namor during WW2 as a part of the Invaders - but more important is the sheer amount of foreshadowing involving Bucky Barnes.

Bucky Captain America Shield
Marvel Studios

In the comics, Bucky wielded Cap's shield and even took on the character's identity altogether when Steve died at the end of Civil War, and though such a thing is yet to happen in the films, the nods, winks and subtle nudges included in The First Avenger, Winter Soldier and Civil War all seem to be building toward a passing of the torch.

At the very least, they're all obvious nods to a specific arc from the comics - an arc that could be set to take on a whole new level of prominence if Chris Evans really is set to depart the franchise after Avengers 4.

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Content Producer/Presenter
Content Producer/Presenter

Resident movie guy at WhatCulture who used to be Comics Editor. Thinks John Carpenter is the best. Likes Hellboy a lot. Can usually be found talking about Dad Movies on his Twitter at @EwanRuinsThings.