Thunderbolts* (2025) Review: A Superhero Team-Up That Misses the Mark

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Back in 1997, I found myself captivated by the introduction of Marvel Comics’ Thunderbolts, a team that was unlike any other – a group of antiheroes and supervillains on a quest for something akin to redemption. Over the years, this dynamic team has gone through multiple transformations. Among my favorite versions was the one penned by Warren Ellis and Mike Deadato Jr., which unfolded post-“Civil War”, with none other than Norman Osborn stepping into the limelight as their leader.

The Thunderbolts have made their debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a film that seems to align more closely with the style of current MCU productions compared to its comic book origins. Directed by Jake Schreier, “Thunderbolts” brings together a few characters from the MCU who no longer hold the star power necessary for leading roles in their own series or films. Apart from Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes, these characters are all secondary and tertiary figures appearing post-“Endgame.” They range from somewhat intriguing to largely forgettable.

In several aspects, “Thunderbolts*” appears to be another typical superhero team-up film with familiar tactics and motifs. However, Schreier, in collaboration with screenwriters Eric Pearson and Joanna Calo, strive to introduce freshness by steering the narrative towards more somber territories. Beyond the mandatory action sequences and a less polished MCU antagonist (to be discussed further), “Thunderbolts*” might be perceived as a two-hour exploration of superheroes dealing with psychological issues such as trauma, grief, melancholy, and isolation.

Regrettably, the film’s humor frequently conflicts with its more somber moments. There’s an abundance of trivial squabbling and unmemorable wisecracks intended to inject humor into the plot. Simultaneously, the creators aim to convey deeper messages, using rather transparent symbols and emotionally charged flashbacks to express the heavier aspects. Unluckily, neither approach is particularly impactful, primarily due to the lack of emotional depth in the characters and their connections.

Currently, amidst the shifting chronology of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, CIA Director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (played by Julia Louis-Dreyfus) stands accused and could be impeached due to her authorization of unapproved missions. To erase any damning proof, de Fontaine assigns her elite undercover agents, one by one, to a hidden mountain fortress. Each operative receives a unique assignment, unaware of the others’ tasks.

Yelena Belova, John Walker, Ghost, and Taskmaster unexpectedly encounter each other at a hidden shelter and engage in combat. Taskmaster is swiftly defeated with minimal struggle and attention, suggesting that Marvel Studios mishandled this notable character. However, they soon discover, thanks to Bob’s arrival, that they are the individuals de Fontaine intends to eliminate as evidence.

The group of five must collaborate to break free from the bunker, as de Fontaine and her troops approach. Over time, they bond and function effectively as a team, particularly when Bucky, now a freshman congressman, and Red Guardian (David Harbour), Yelena’s distant father who serves primarily for comedic purposes, join them. Meanwhile, de Fontaine targets the conflicted Bob, who turns out to be incredibly powerful, although he may not fully understand it yet.

In essence, the central plot revolves around an underdog group chasing de Fontaine, with Bob finding himself in an awkward position. The film endeavors to tackle more serious topics such as mental health, primarily concentrating on its favorite characters. However, it fails to delve deeply enough into these themes. As for the characters, Pugh appears to be the main focus but at times seems uninterested and finds it difficult to bring depth to Yelena. The other team members barely make an impact individually, even Stan’s gruff Bucky, who is the most well-known among them.

Thunderbolts” puts forth a great effort, but it struggles to break free from the slump that Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been in for quite some time. It attempts to be unique, but ends up feeling very much like something we’ve seen before. There are several issues that keep piling up. The team’s bond feels more artificial than genuine. Character development is lacking. Some plot points fall apart. The action is merely average. Even its grand finale is as unimpressive as the asterisk in the movie’s title. It left me yearning for the glory days of the MCU, when superheroes were truly super, actions were exhilarating, and phases could be recalled without needing to look up information online.

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2025-05-02 17:58