Thunderbolts* has unexpectedly emerged as one of the most interconnected and enjoyable films within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) of the Multiverse Saga. Initially perceived as a potentially irrelevant filler narrative, the film has proven to be far more significant upon its release.
Rather than simply fitting into the mold of a typical superhero film, Thunderbolts* offers a fresh take, reminiscent of the Guardians of the Galaxy. It introduces a thrilling ensemble of unconventional heroes, infused with humor and adventurous spirit. Moreover, the film manages to incorporate elements that have felt conspicuously absent throughout the Multiverse Saga. After multiple viewings of Thunderbolts*, my anticipation for future MCU projects has only intensified.
The MCU Frequently Delays Addressing Movie Events
MCU’s Easter Eggs: Delayed Revelations
From its earliest installations, the MCU has been characterized by the inclusion of minor details that often go unnoticed until much later. For instance, the Ten Rings references in Iron Man were not addressed until Iron Man 3, and the full storyline has only been explored in-depth in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Similarly, characters introduced in earlier films, like The Leader in The Incredible Hulk, didn’t resurface until years later in Captain America: Brave New World.
This trend of planting seeds for narratives that may not blossom for a decade or more has become a hallmark of the MCU. Particularly within the Multiverse Saga, where entries appear increasingly disconnected, audiences are often left with more questions than answers. However, Thunderbolts* shifts this dynamic, offering a much more engaging and interconnected storyline.
Thunderbolts* Directly Engages with Captain America: Brave New World (& Prepares for The Fantastic Four’s Arrival)
Meaningful Connectivity to Other MCU Projects
Thunderbolts* astutely references the events of Captain America: Brave New World, which was released earlier within the same year. For instance, Bucky is now a congressman as a direct follow-up to his election mentioned in Brave New World. The transformation of the President into the Red Hulk and his subsequent imprisonment are also significant plot points woven into the narrative of Thunderbolts*. Furthermore, Bucky’s intention to reconnect with Sam Wilson, who established his own Avengers team, hints at an emerging rivalry with The New Avengers.
This interconnected storytelling enhances the sense of continuity and progression within the MCU—something sorely needed in recent installments. In addition to linking back to Brave New World, the film offers a tantalizing glimpse of the impending arrival of The Fantastic Four on Earth-616, laying groundwork for The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Avengers: Doomsday, which will follow approximately 14 months later.
The Value of Interconnectivity in Thunderbolts*
Thunderbolts* Elevates Expectations in the Multiverse Saga
In the early phases of the MCU, films were rich with Easter Eggs and connected narratives, culminating in a cohesive universe. Scenes such as Nick Fury’s recruitment of Captain America or Stark’s unexpected appearance in The Incredible Hulk exemplified this interconnectedness and presaged future stories.
However, as the complexity of the MCU has expanded post-Avengers: Endgame, the Multiverse Saga has struggled to form a coherent storyline among its many branches. Thunderbolts*, by effectively linking with surrounding projects in the release schedule, serves as a crucial piece of the larger narrative puzzle. This quality makes Thunderbolts* a remarkably rewarding experience, setting it apart from much of what has come before in the Multiverse Saga.