Rated: M
My Rating: 8.5/10
Marvel is soooo back, and Thunderbolts* proves it. This film delivers a compelling mix of action, humour, heart, and darkness, marking a refreshing shift in the MCU's trajectory.
The story centres on a group of six anti-heroes: Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Red Guardian (David Harbour), Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), Bob/Sentry (Lewis Pullman), and U.S. Agent/John Walker (Wyatt Russell). They're brought together to confront Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), whose manipulative schemes have far-reaching consequences. Without delving into spoilers, the plot unfolds with unexpected twists that keep you engaged throughout.
What sets Thunderbolts* apart is its focus on character development and emotional depth. Each member of the team grapples with personal demons, and the film doesn't shy away from exploring themes of mental health and isolation. Red Guardian provides much-needed comic relief, balancing the darker moments with well-timed humour.
The performances are top-notch. Florence Pugh shines as Yelena, bringing complexity and vulnerability to the role. David Harbour's Red Guardian is both hilarious and heartfelt, while Sebastian Stan's portrayal of Bucky adds a layer of gravitas. Wyatt Russell, Hannah John-Kamen, and Lewis Pullman round out the cast with compelling performances that add depth to their characters.
Visually, the film is grounded, eschewing over-the-top CGI for practical effects that enhance the storytelling. The action sequences are well-choreographed, and the cinematography captures the gritty tone of the narrative.
One of the film’s most surprising strengths is how honestly it deals with mental health and depression. These characters aren't your squeaky-clean Avengers, they’re damaged, raw, and carrying a hell of a lot of emotional baggage. These topics are heavily touched upon making these characters extremely relatable. Thunderbolts* sits with their pain instead of just brushing it aside. It’s heavy at times, but in the best way, it shows that even in a world of super soldiers and gamma rays, mental health matters. That’s something we don’t get nearly enough of in the genre, and it was handled with real care.
Thunderbolts* also sets the stage for future MCU developments. The two end-credit scenes are significant, hinting at what's to come and leaving audiences eager for the next instalment
Thunderbolts* is a bold and emotionally resonant addition to the MCU. It successfully blends action, humour, and character-driven storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on the superhero genre. This film not only reinvigorates the franchise but also paves the way for more nuanced narratives in the future and that’s why I give this movie an 8.5/10
All images and Videos are owned by Marvel Studios