Thunderbolts: The Ugly Truth Behind Marvel’s Latest Movie

by

Caution: Major plot reveals for The New Avengers lie ahead. If you prefer to avoid specifics, consider yourself forewarned.

Many individuals appear to be thoroughly enjoying the film “Thunderbolts” following its debut in movie schedules for 2025. Frankly, I can understand their enthusiasm since, upon leaving the theater after watching it, I found it to be quite an entertaining adventure as well.

Initially, I was intrigued by the tale, but as I began to unravel more details and delve deeper, a series of observations emerged that led me to an encompassing conclusion: I find myself strongly disliking this story and its implications for future Marvel films. I understand this stance might not make many online acquaintances happy, but let me explain my reasoning.

Taskmaster Is Done Super Dirty In This Plot, And So Are Most Of The Thunderbolts

It’s immaterial if we anticipated her demise; the manner in which Thunderbolts executed Antonia Dreykov’s (Olga Kurylenko), also known as Taskmaster, lethal move was problematic. There was no introduction or context for this character who last appeared in 2021’s Black Widow, and ultimately her death lacked significance. It’s unfortunate because she could have formed a strong bond with the background character Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen).

Bob’s Depression Plotline Is Super Surface Level

As a movie enthusiast, I’ve always appreciated when popular media tackles sensitive topics like mental health issues, helping to make these conversations more commonplace. Unfortunately, the narrative surrounding Bob (Lewis Pullman) and his heart-wrenching past seems to present a somewhat oversimplified portrayal of this complex subject.

In other Marvel Cinatic Universe (MCU) stories, characters like Tony Stark from Iron Man 3 and Rocket Raccoon from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 have grappled with trauma, and their struggles were portrayed in a more detailed manner. However, I am hopeful that Bob’s resurrection will be integrated into a more seamless storyline, considering he is Bob.

I’m Tired Of Black Widow Program Vets Being The Most Broken MCU Characters

It’s clear by this point that many of us are aware that the Red Room was involved in cruel treatment towards the girls under its supervision. This theme is also explored in the movie “Black Widow,” which can be streamed with a Disney+ subscription. Interestingly, Yelena (played by Florence Pugh) echoed some of the same themes as the film when she embarked on her own Thunderbolts mission.

*Note: I have assumed that “Thunderbolts” is a term or title related to the character Yelena in the context provided, but it might not be directly linked to the movie Black Widow. Please correct if necessary.

Unite entertainment with Disney+ and Hulu Bundle for a monthly cost of just $10.99 (or $19.99 without ads). Immerse yourself in an extensive library filled with Marvel Cinematic Universe content, Star Wars, and much more from Disney. If you’re eager to learn more about the characters in Thunderbolts*, this bundle is perfect for you! Check out the offer now.

Could we kindly refrain from repeatedly employing the “broken bird” motif for almost every post-Widow character? I had hoped we were moving beyond this when Captain America: Brave New World presented Ruth Bat-Seraph (Shira Haas), who was supposed to be trauma-free; however, it appears her spin-off film will still delve into the trope. It seems that the “Marvel, but make it A24” joke may hold more accuracy than we initially thought.

Thunderbolts Is A HUGE Retread Of Earlier, Better Marvel Movies

I appreciate the title change of “The New Avengers” for providing an opportunity for this next comment. If “Thunderbolts” had been released with that name in theaters, it might have received negative reviews due to jokes about how the title seems fitting for what this film attempts to achieve.

In addition, it wasn’t just a rehash of “The Avengers” feeling bland and lukewarm, but it also appeared to borrow the eccentric team dynamic from “Guardians of the Galaxy,” along with the psychological labyrinth of powers and madness depicted in “Dark Phoenix.” Even if it includes humorous quips, music selections, or reinterpretations of iconic MCU moments, this won’t alter the fact that it still feels that way.

Thunderbolts* Post-Credits Tease Is A Slap In The Face To Sam Wilson

Among all the issues that truly left a mark on my perspective, it’s undeniably the post-credit scene of Thunderbolts that stands out. To begin with, numerous fans on social media who argued that Pepper Potts would have immediately filed for trademark paperwork once she and Tony Stark completed construction at Avengers Towers are spot on.

Setting that matter aside temporarily, let me clarify: You’re suggesting that there could be a conflict between Sam and Bucky regarding the formation of another Avengers team? This would occur after The Winter Soldier informed Sam he was capable of being the next Captain America without Super Serum? I find this notion hard to believe.

Marvel Has Entered Its Junk Drawer Era

Marvel Studios appears to be wrapping up various plot threads lately. Earlier, the Captain America series got a pseudo-sequel to The Incredible Hulk, and now Thunderbolts can arguably be categorized as a continuation of Black Widow’s storyline. I appreciate the actors and characters involved, but the narrative didn’t have enough depth to leave a lasting impact beyond the initial excitement of the 3D/4DX cinematic experience.

In Phase 5, we’ve primarily seen sequels or continuations of established characters rather than introducing many new main characters as marquee additions, which is different from the focus of the Infinity Saga. The team-up in _Thunderbolts_ feels like a collection of characters assembled somewhat randomly, with a lot of past storylines being referenced to tie up loose ends.

*Note: Thunderbolts is a fictional team in Marvel Comics and Movies.

It seems we’re expected to recall the relevant movies/shows of these significant characters without much prior knowledge, which can be challenging. In simpler terms, it appears Marvel is currently in the phase where they need to dig through the ‘junk drawer’, and that’s not an ideal position, especially considering the upcoming movies scheduled for release within the next two years.

I’m Less Excited About Marvel’s Future After Thunderbolts*

Perhaps viewing “The Fantastic Four: Next Steps” could offer a fresh perspective and help break the monotony, but I sense that even an excellent film won’t suffice in making a significant impact. To lay my cards on the table, I’m not holding my breath for “Avengers: Doomsday” or “Avengers: Secret Wars” to create miracles either, given the extensive Marvel Cinatic Universe roster that seems more focused on generating “event cinema” hype by delving deeper into the archives.

Come the summer, we’ll find out if I was incorrect when the main cast of Superheroes makes a comeback on the big screen, specifically on July 25th. If this new project fails to live up to expectations…you might just hear my displeased comments echoing across the globe.

Read More

2025-05-12 12:44