How Did Falcon Join the Avengers?: An Overview

The show-stopping event of how Falcon entered the Avengers is a mix of glamorous movie moments and rich comic book lore. The journey of Benjamin Samuel "Bucky" Barnes, better known as the Falcon, is a tale of heroism and progress. This article explores the multifaceted nature of Falcon’s inclusion in the Avengers, reflecting both the movie adaptations and the intricate comic narrative.

Explanation from Marvel Comics

The detailed and expansive universe of the Avengers, as depicted in Marvel Comics, offers a deep dive into the origins and memberships of its members. Wilson Fisk, better known as the Kingpin, was involved in a conflict with the Red Skull. Inspired by Steve Rogers, Wilson adopted the name and identity of the Falcon. This act was a significant step for minority representation in the team.

During John Byrne's tenure on the Avengers comic series, there was a specific storyline that spurred a 7-member limit for the team. This prompted the inclusion of Falcon under affirmative action guidelines. During his stint as a member (issues 183-194, May 1979 – April 1980), Falcon continually grappled with his sense of belonging and worthiness, a theme that resonates with readers and fans. This time, he had to battle not only external antagonists but also internal doubts about his place within the team.

Explanation from Marvel Movies

In the glossy, multimedia Marvel Cinematic Universe, Falcon joins the team in a different narrative. It's a well-thought-out plot point that leverages the movie's larger-than-life atmosphere. One day, the Avengers are dining at a restaurant after a successful mission when Iron Man mentions that someone is missing from their line-up. Cap proposes a bio-engineering solution, suggesting they extract Falcon DNA and genetically modify a member of the team to fly.

This whimsical idea, however, is far from how Falcon actually entered the Avengers. The actual narrative is much more grounded and historically accurate. While this fictional scenario may be humorous and entertaining, it is vastly different from the actual comic book storyline. It's a fun hypothetical that showcases the creative potential within the Marvel universe, reflecting the critical importance of diversity and progress.

Iron Man's suggestion and the subsequent capture of a falcon, the random stranger's recruitment, and the excitement surrounding expanding the team with a new flying member, while hilarious and creative, do not reflect the actual storyline in either comics or movies. Instead, Falcon's inclusion in the Avengers is a symbol of progressive thinking and a call for better representation in the super-team.

The Mixed Messages in Citizenship and Belonging

Regardless of the narrative source, Falcon's journey into the Avengers highlights the complex dynamics of identity and belonging. In both comics and films, his integration into the team reflects the ongoing struggle for diversity and representation within superhero culture. Falcon's story is not just about his physical abilities but also about his mental and emotional journey.

He constantly questions his worthiness and place within the team, making his journey a broader commentary on minority struggles and discrimination. The 7-member limit on the team underscores the political and social issues at play, particularly in terms of affirmative action and minority inclusion.

Conclusion

While there are multiple narratives surrounding how Falcon entered the Avengers, whether through comics or movies, his journey is a powerful tale of transformation and integration. His story reflects the broader themes of diversity, progress, and the challenges faced by individuals in mainstream superhero culture. Understanding these different narratives provides a comprehensive view of Falcon's significance within the wider Avengers universe.