Now Reading: Marvel’s ‘Thunderbolts*’: A Return to Character-Driven Storytelling in the MCU
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Marvel’s ‘Thunderbolts*’: A Return to Character-Driven Storytelling in the MCU
Release Date: May 2, 2025 | Director: Jake Schreier | Runtime: 126 minutes | Rating: PG-13
Executive Summary: A Spoiler-Free Assessment
In a cinematic universe that has increasingly emphasized multiverse adventures and cosmic threats, Marvel Studios’ “Thunderbolts*” offers a refreshing return to character-driven storytelling. Directed by Jake Schreier and featuring an ensemble cast led by Florence Pugh and Sebastian Stan, this film assembles a team of antiheroes and outcasts who are forced to work together on a dangerous mission. With its emphasis on emotional depth, practical effects, and grounded action, “Thunderbolts*” proves that Marvel can still deliver compelling narratives without relying solely on universe-ending stakes. The film’s exploration of trauma, redemption, and found family breathes new life into the MCU, potentially serving as a course correction for the franchise.
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5 stars) – An emotionally resonant and visually distinctive Marvel film that prioritizes character development over spectacle, offering one of the most satisfying MCU experiences in recent years.
Introduction: A New Direction for Marvel
The Marvel Cinematic Universe finds itself at a critical juncture in 2025. After the conclusion of the Infinity Saga with “Avengers: Endgame,” the franchise has been working to establish new narrative threads and emotional anchors. Recent entries have received varying levels of audience and critical reception, with the MCU’s 36th film arriving at a moment when superhero storytelling is evolving rapidly.
“Thunderbolts*” represents a calculated shift for Marvel: a film centered on characters who previously existed at the periphery of the MCU, many introduced as antagonists or morally ambiguous figures in earlier entries. The asterisk in the title, which gains significance during the film, signals that this isn’t your conventional superhero team-up. Director Jake Schreier, known for indies like “Robot & Frank” and the acclaimed Netflix series “Beef,” brings a fresh perspective to the franchise, emphasizing character psychology over CGI spectacle.
The result is a film that feels both familiar and refreshingly distinct – a Marvel movie that embraces a grittier, more emotionally raw approach. By focusing on characters who exist in the shadows of more famous heroes, “Thunderbolts*” offers commentary on heroism itself while potentially charting a new direction for the franchise.
Premise: Reluctant Heroes Assemble
Without delving into spoiler territory, “Thunderbolts*” brings together a group of morally complex characters from across the MCU. The ensemble includes Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova (from “Black Widow” and “Hawkeye”), Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier, David Harbour’s Red Guardian, Wyatt Russell’s U.S. Agent (from “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier”), Hannah John-Kamen’s Ghost (from “Ant-Man and the Wasp”), and Olga Kurylenko’s Taskmaster.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus returns as the manipulative Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, who has been recruiting various powered individuals throughout Phase Four. New to the MCU is Lewis Pullman as a mysterious character named “Bob,” whose role becomes increasingly important as the film progresses.
The premise is straightforward: these disparate characters, most with checkered pasts, find themselves unwillingly thrust together when what seemed like separate missions converge. As tensions and personalities clash, they must decide whether their individual goals are better served by working together or going their separate ways. When a formidable threat emerges, this ragtag group of misfits must confront not just external dangers but their own personal demons.
Cast & Performances: Breathing New Life into Established Characters
The true strength of “Thunderbolts*” lies in its ensemble cast, with each actor bringing depth and nuance to characters who previously existed primarily in relation to the MCU’s more prominent heroes.
Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova
Florence Pugh solidifies her status as one of the MCU’s most valuable players with a performance that balances deadpan humor with profound melancholy. Building on her appearances in “Black Widow” and “Hawkeye,” Pugh portrays Yelena with both fierce competence and underlying vulnerability. Critics have widely praised her performance, with The Hollywood Reporter noting that she functions as “the movie’s MVP” with her ability to handle both action sequences and emotional depth.
Pugh’s chemistry with the entire ensemble elevates every scene she’s in, and the film wisely positions her as a central figure whose journey anchors the narrative. Her Russian accent remains consistent, her comic timing impeccable, and her ability to convey complex emotions with subtle facial expressions demonstrates why she’s become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after talents.
Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes
After more than a decade playing Bucky Barnes, Sebastian Stan brings a newfound confidence to the character. Having appeared in multiple Captain America films and “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” Stan has a deep understanding of Bucky’s psychology, and it shows in his nuanced performance here.
Stan’s performance balances world-weariness with dry humor, and his interactions with other team members provide some of the film’s most engaging moments. In an interview with The AU Review, Stan noted that part of the appeal in reprising his role was that “Winter Soldier, like the other Thunderbolts, feels like a real person, despite the fantastical realms the film exists in.” This grounding in emotional reality makes his character particularly compelling.
Lewis Pullman as Bob
As the only major new character in the ensemble, Lewis Pullman (known for his work in “Top Gun: Maverick”) had the challenging task of creating a compelling figure who could stand alongside established MCU personalities. Without revealing his character’s importance to the plot, Pullman delivers a remarkably multi-layered performance that suggests depths beyond his initially unassuming appearance.
The Hollywood Reporter praised Pullman as “wonderful” in the role, noting that his portrayal effectively explores complex psychological themes. Pullman’s performance marks him as a significant addition to the MCU’s growing roster of talent.
Supporting Cast
The remainder of the ensemble delivers equally strong performances, with Wyatt Russell bringing new dimensions to John Walker following his introduction in “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” and David Harbour balancing comedy and pathos as Red Guardian. Hannah John-Kamen makes the most of her expanded role as Ghost, while Julia Louis-Dreyfus clearly relishes Val’s manipulative machinations without veering into caricature.
Each actor finds moments to shine within the ensemble framework, creating a team dynamic that feels authentic rather than forced – no small feat given the disparate origins of these characters across the MCU.
Direction & Visual Style: A Fresh Aesthetic for the MCU
Jake Schreier’s direction represents a notable departure from the typical Marvel house style, bringing a more grounded and visually distinctive approach to the proceedings. Working with cinematographer Andrew Droz Palermo (known for his stunning work on “The Green Knight” and Marvel’s “Moon Knight” series), Schreier creates a desaturated visual palette that reflects the characters’ emotional states while still delivering moments of visual splendor.
The film’s action sequences prioritize practical effects and coherent geography over CGI spectacle. According to production information, the filmmakers emphasized in-camera stunts and practical effects wherever possible. This approach gives the action a weight and impact often missing from more effects-heavy superhero films. When CGI does appear, it serves the narrative rather than overwhelming it.
Schreier’s background directing music videos for artists like Kendrick Lamar and Kanye West is evident in the film’s visual rhythm, particularly during several stylistically bold sequences that wouldn’t feel out of place in a more indie-oriented production. His experience with character-driven storytelling from projects like “Beef” helps ground the superhero elements in emotional reality.
According to Discussing Film, “Thunderbolts*” is “one of the best-looking MCU films in years,” with Palermo’s cinematography described as “necessarily dark, but never oppressive.” The film’s visual approach may not appeal to those seeking the bright, primary-colored aesthetic of earlier Marvel films, but it effectively establishes “Thunderbolts*” as something different within the franchise.
Themes & Subtext: Finding Purpose in the Shadows
Beyond its entertainment value, “Thunderbolts*” offers a surprisingly thoughtful meditation on trauma, identity, and the struggle to find purpose. Without revealing specific plot details, the film explores how individuals with checkered pasts might find redemption not through erasing their histories but by acknowledging them and moving forward.
Each team member grapples with living in the shadow of more conventionally heroic figures – whether that’s trying to live up to impossible standards or defining themselves in opposition to established heroes. The film thoughtfully examines what it means to be heroic when you don’t fit the traditional mold of a superhero.
Mental health emerges as a significant theme, with the film addressing issues of depression, PTSD, and alienation with unexpected nuance for a superhero blockbuster. The narrative suggests that even the most damaged individuals can find strength in vulnerability and connection – that sharing our broken pieces might actually help us become whole.
The asterisk in the title becomes a metaphor for the film’s approach to heroism. These characters may not fit the conventional definition of superheroes, but the asterisk suggests their story deserves to be told nonetheless – they are heroes, with qualification.
In its exploration of outcasts finding purpose together, “Thunderbolts*” recalls elements of James Gunn’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “The Suicide Squad,” but with a more grounded and psychologically complex approach. The film argues that heroism isn’t defined by power or public acclaim, but by the choice to help others despite one’s own damage – a theme that resonates particularly strongly in an era of superhero saturation.
Technical Elements: Craftsmanship Behind the Scenes
Score & Sound Design
One of the film’s most distinctive elements is its score by experimental trio Son Lux, who previously received Oscar nominations for their work on “Everything Everywhere All at Once.” Recording at London’s Abbey Road Studios with the London Contemporary Orchestra, Son Lux created a soundtrack that stands apart from typical superhero fare, blending orchestral elements with electronic manipulation.
In a statement released with the soundtrack album, Son Lux explained their approach: “This group of antiheroes provided the perfect inspiration for us to find our own way of making a Marvel score.” The result is music that enhances the emotional journey of the characters without resorting to predictable superhero themes.
The soundtrack album, released by Hollywood Records and Marvel Music, features both sweeping orchestral compositions and more intimate, character-driven pieces. According to early reactions compiled by Rotten Tomatoes, critics noted that “the score by Son Lux stood out more than other MCU films,” contributing significantly to the film’s emotional impact.
Visual Effects & Production Design
While “Thunderbolts*” employs visual effects where necessary, the film demonstrates a commitment to practical filmmaking that gives it a tactile quality often missing from superhero blockbusters. Production designer Grace Yun creates environments that feel lived-in and authentic, avoiding the sometimes sterile look of CGI-heavy productions.
The film was shot in various locations including Atlanta, Georgia; areas of Utah; and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, providing a visual diversity that reinforces the global scope of the narrative while maintaining a grounded aesthetic. According to production information, executive producer Brian Chapek described “Thunderbolts*” as a “grounded, globe-trotting film” that would use several practical filming locations.
This emphasis on practical effects extends to the stunt work and action sequences, many of which were performed with minimal digital enhancement. The approach aligns with what Julia Louis-Dreyfus noted during production – that Marvel Studios was “trying to ‘go back to their roots’ with a focus on the characters’ humanity, practical stunt sequences, and avoiding visual effects where possible.”
Cultural Context: Positioning in the MCU and Beyond
“Thunderbolts*” arrives at a pivotal moment for both Marvel Studios and the superhero genre as a whole. As the 36th film in the MCU and the concluding chapter of Phase Five, it serves as a bridge between the Multiverse Saga and the upcoming slate of films beginning with “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” in July 2025.
The superhero landscape has evolved significantly since the heights of “Avengers: Endgame,” with audiences becoming more selective about which comic book adaptations they support in theaters. In this context, “Thunderbolts*” represents a strategic approach – a character-focused film that recalls the grounded, more intimate storytelling of early MCU entries like “Captain America: The Winter Soldier.”
Industry analysts have projected an opening weekend of $70-75 million domestically and $160-175 million globally for “Thunderbolts*” – solid numbers for a film featuring characters who haven’t previously headlined their own movies. Critical reception has been largely positive, with Rotten Tomatoes reporting that 89% of critics have given the film a positive review, describing it as “a welcome return to form for the franchise.”
Early audience reactions have emphasized the film’s emotional depth and character work. As one reviewer noted on Slash Film, the movie “revels in being part of the MCU but carries none of the weight of its continuity” – making it accessible to casual viewers while still rewarding longtime fans.
Connections to the Wider MCU (Spoiler-Free)
“Thunderbolts*” functions effectively as a standalone story while also acknowledging its place within the larger Marvel universe. The film builds on established character histories from previous MCU entries without requiring encyclopedic knowledge of those films to follow the plot.
For viewers familiar with the broader MCU, the film contains subtle nods to events from “Black Widow,” “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” and “Hawkeye,” providing continuity for those characters while allowing new viewers to understand their motivations without having seen those earlier works.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus’s Valentina Allegra de Fontaine continues the mysterious recruitment efforts first glimpsed in her previous appearances, though her ultimate goals remain intriguingly ambiguous. The film raises questions about power and accountability in the post-Blip MCU while maintaining focus on its core character stories.
As is customary for Marvel films, “Thunderbolts*” includes post-credits scenes that hint at future developments without detracting from the film’s self-contained narrative. Empire Magazine described one scene in particular as “a biggie,” though specifics are best left for viewers to discover themselves.
Critical Assessment: Strengths and Weaknesses
What Works
- Character Development: The film’s greatest strength is its investment in psychologically complex characterizations. Each member of the ensemble feels fully realized, with motivations and conflicts that extend beyond superhero clichés.
- Performances: The cast delivers across the board, with Florence Pugh’s emotionally nuanced portrayal of Yelena and Lewis Pullman’s multifaceted performance as Bob standing out as particular highlights. Even characters who received limited development in previous appearances, like Wyatt Russell’s John Walker, benefit from the film’s character-first approach.
- Visual Distinction: Jake Schreier and cinematographer Andrew Droz Palermo create a visual identity for “Thunderbolts*” that sets it apart from other MCU entries. The thoughtful cinematography and emphasis on practical effects give the film a grounded feel that reinforces its emotional themes.
- Thematic Depth: The film’s exploration of identity, belonging, and finding meaning through connection elevates it beyond typical superhero fare. By focusing on complex individuals finding purpose together, “Thunderbolts*” offers a more mature and thoughtful take on heroism than many of its predecessors.
- Score: Son Lux’s innovative soundtrack blends orchestral elements with experimental techniques to create a score that enhances the film’s emotional impact without resorting to the bombastic clichés of many superhero films.
What Could Be Improved
- Pacing Issues: The film’s first act feels somewhat disjointed as it works to bring together its disparate characters. Once the team is assembled, the narrative finds its rhythm, but the early sequences may test the patience of viewers expecting more immediate action.
- Antagonist Development: While Julia Louis-Dreyfus clearly enjoys playing Val’s manipulative scheming, the film sometimes positions her as more of a catalyst than a fully realized antagonist, which may disappoint viewers looking for a more traditional hero-villain dynamic.
- Balanced Character Focus: Despite the ensemble nature of the film, certain characters receive significantly more attention than others. Some supporting characters could have benefited from additional screen time to further develop their stories.
- Familiar Structure: While “Thunderbolts*” distinguishes itself through tone and character work, its basic narrative structure – a team of misfits coming together to face a threat – follows a well-established template. Some viewers may find the overall arc predictable despite the film’s unique elements.
- Visual Aesthetic: Though the film’s muted color palette serves its thematic purposes, viewers who prefer the vibrant aesthetics of other MCU entries may find it visually subdued. The intentionally restrained visual approach won’t appeal to all tastes.
Conclusion: A Fresh Start for Marvel’s Future
“Thunderbolts*” represents one of Marvel Studios’ most successful creative endeavors in recent memory. By focusing on character development over spectacle, emotional resonance over fan service, and practical filmmaking over CGI excess, the film recaptures much of what made the MCU compelling in its earlier phases while pointing toward new possibilities for the franchise.
Director Jake Schreier deserves significant credit for bringing a distinctive vision to a franchise sometimes criticized for visual homogeneity. His collaboration with cinematographer Andrew Droz Palermo and the experimental music group Son Lux results in a superhero film that feels genuinely different from its predecessors, both visually and sonically.
The exceptional ensemble cast breathes new life into characters who previously existed primarily as supporting players, with Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova demonstrating her importance to the MCU’s future. By focusing on antiheroes and outcasts rather than traditional superheroes, “Thunderbolts*” finds fresh territory to explore within an increasingly crowded genre.
Most importantly, the film succeeds as a story about people finding purpose through connection – a theme that resonates beyond the confines of superhero cinema. In an era of franchise filmmaking, “Thunderbolts*” reminds us that character-driven storytelling remains the most effective foundation for audience engagement, regardless of genre.
For Marvel Studios, the film offers a potential blueprint for future success: focus on character over continuity, emotional stakes over universe-ending threats, and distinctive filmmaking over formulaic spectacle. Whether the studio will continue down this path remains to be seen, but “Thunderbolts*” stands as proof that there’s still life in the superhero genre when approached with genuine creative investment.
In the crowded landscape of comic book adaptations, “Thunderbolts*” distinguishes itself by remembering what has always made superhero stories compelling – not the powers, but the people behind them.
Where to Watch
“Thunderbolts*” releases exclusively in theaters on May 2, 2025, with international releases beginning on May 1 in select markets. Based on Marvel’s typical distribution pattern, the film will likely arrive on Disney+ approximately 90 days after its theatrical release, placing its streaming debut in early August 2025.
Final Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5)
Pros: Exceptional character development, strong performances (particularly from Pugh and Pullman), distinctive visual style, thematically rich narrative, innovative score.
Cons: Occasionally uneven pacing, some characters receive limited focus, conventional team-up structure.
“Thunderbolts*” stands as one of the most refreshing and emotionally resonant entries in the MCU, proving that Marvel can still deliver compelling storytelling when prioritizing character over spectacle. While not without flaws, the film represents a promising new direction for a franchise in need of reinvention.
