Thunderbolts* has emerged as a remarkable achievement for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), finally delivering the thrilling content that fans have yearned for in recent years. Initially, when the film centered on a team of MCU anti-heroes was announced, expectations were modest. Despite Sebastian Stan’s enduring popularity as Bucky Barnes, the ensemble cast comprised characters previously confined to supporting roles. This lack of individual traction, especially compared to iconic heroes like Captain America and Spider-Man, accentuates the film’s impressive box office performance.
Both critics and audiences are lauding Thunderbolts* as one of the MCU’s most compelling offerings in recent memory. Currently, it has amassed a remarkable $286.7 million worldwide, achieving an 88% critic score and 94% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. The timing of Thunderbolts* is crucial for Marvel, rejuvenating interest in the franchise after a series of underwhelming films. Interestingly, many believe that if this project had been released two to three years earlier, it could have performed equally well, serving as a much-needed morale boost for fans during that period.
Thunderbolts* Resolves Several MCU Phase 4 Narratives
Key Characters Make Their Debut in Phase 4
Although the Thunderbolts represent a new superhero team within the MCU, all members have established backgrounds through earlier films. While Ava Starr (Ghost) debuted in Phase 3’s Ant-Man & The Wasp, the remaining Thunderbolts characters are deeply intertwined with Phase 4 narrative arcs. John Walker’s U.S. Agent was introduced in 2021’s The Falcon & The Winter Soldier alongside Bucky Barnes, while characters like Yelena Belova, Alexei Shostakov’s Red Guardian, and Taskmaster made their appearances in Black Widow later that year. It wasn’t until Thunderbolts* that their storylines truly developed.
One of the notable connections is Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, the film’s main antagonist. She previously appeared throughout Phase 4, including in both 2021’s projects and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Although fans speculated about her secret recruitment efforts, little information surfaced following her last appearance. The film provides satisfying resolutions for each character, showcasing how they all find renewed purpose post-Phase 4, especially Bucky, who finally steps out of the shadows after The Falcon & The Winter Soldier.
Thunderbolts*: A Captivating, Crowd-Pleasing Film
A Self-Contained Story That Engages Broader Audiences
Beyond delighting MCU die-hards, Thunderbolts* has successfully captured the imagination of general audiences as well. While the film includes familiar characters, their backstories are straightforward enough for those who may not have seen every previous installment in the franchise. The narrative is heavily influenced by their earlier exploits but remains accessible as a standalone feature.
Thunderbolts* presents a self-contained story that doesn’t alienate newcomers. At its heart, it tells the tale of a group of misfits striving to find their place amidst chaos. The film also subtly addresses themes of mental health, which resonates widely among viewers. It has received praise for its quality, with ScreenRant’s Molly Freeman remarking that the film “feels very much like a relief, like laughing when you need to cry,” perfectly encapsulating its relatable charm.
Establishment of a New Avengers Team in Thunderbolts*
The Absence of Avengers in the MCU for Five Years
The film’s dramatic twist reveals that the Thunderbolts will be rebranded as the New Avengers under Valentina’s guidance. While the sentiment is met with mixed feelings among the members, they realize that their knowledge about Valentina gives them leverage. Meanwhile, Sam Wilson is likely assembling another primary Avengers team for the upcoming Doomsday, making the establishment of this unconventional team exciting for the MCU.
Since the conclusion of the Infinity Saga with Avengers: Endgame, the MCU has not seen an Avengers team for five years. This gap is significant given the franchise’s history, as fans have grown accustomed to the Avengers being central to the narrative since Phase 1. Although Thunderbolts* sets up an unconventional team structure, it nevertheless marks the first solidified Avengers presence in the MCU. While fans may have wished for confirmation of the Avengers’ status much sooner, the wait has certainly been worthwhile.