Produced by Marvel Studios and directed by Jake Schreier, Thunderbolts* introduces a new kind of superhero team within the MCU. Featuring a star-studded cast including Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, David Harbour, Wyatt Russell, and Olga Kurylenko, the film explores a darker, more emotionally complex take on the superhero genre.
The story begins with Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), trained in the Red Room and now working for CIA-affiliated director Valentina. She requests a mission that would earn her recognition as a true superhero. Valentina sends her to a covert location called "The Vault." But things get complicated when Yelena discovers she’s not alone—Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), John Walker (Wyatt Russell), Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko), and Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen) have also been sent there with secret agendas to eliminate each other.
In the midst of this tension, a mysterious box in the Vault opens to reveal Bob (played by Lewis Pullman), a powerful creation of Valentina, forged from his own guilt and past misdeeds. Eventually, these fractured individuals—each dealing with their own emotional turmoil, loneliness, confusion, and trauma—join forces to escape. Unlike traditional Marvel heroes, they’re not defined by power, glory, or victory, but by inner struggles and psychological depth, making teamwork a real challenge.
The film then unravels the story behind the formation of the Thunderbolts*, the reason for Bob’s existence, and the nature of his mysterious powers.Far from the usual Marvel formula of flashy powers, epic wins, and smartly executed takedowns, Thunderbolts* is driven by raw emotions. Action takes a back seat, giving the characters space to breathe, break down, and come together.
Florence Pugh delivers a standout performance as Yelena, who carries the pain of losing her sister, her feelings of isolation, and her desire for redemption. It’s through her vulnerability—visible in her eyes—that the team begins to connect. Sebastian Stan’s portrayal of a man still haunted by his past adds further weight. However, it's Lewis Pullman’s character—Bob, also known as Sentry—who forms the film’s emotional and narrative core. His role is expected to be crucial in the much-anticipated upcoming Avengers: Doomsday.
Director Jake Schreier takes a bold step by steering the film into emotionally resonant territory rather than the usual high-octane action. He emphasizes that to truly protect others, superheroes must first confront their own internal conflicts. The film also highlights the importance of unity and shared healing.
Though the action may feel more restrained to a typical Marvel fan, Thunderbolts* brings something fresh to the table. Andrew Droz Palermo’s cinematography, especially the scenes where darkness engulfs the city, is visually stunning. The background score by Son Lux adds an intense edge to the emotional and action scenes alike.
Without grasping the full context, David Harbour’s comedic antics—and the public’s and media’s reluctance to accept the new Avengers—lead to mockery, trolls, and memes. Yet, these very elements add sporadic humor, making the film occasionally funny as well.
Maybe not a typical Marvel movie, which might disappoint some fans, Thunderbolts* stands out as a thought-provoking and emotionally layered superhero film. It dares to show that even superheroes wrestle with trauma, guilt, and broken relationships—and that true heroism begins with healing from within.
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