A Guide to the MCU’s Thunderbolts

Despite a modest beginning at the box office, Thunderbolts has made an impressive recovery, leaving many fans exhilarated and considering it one of Marvel Studios’ most intriguing projects in recent memory. Initially, viewers anticipated a film centered around a team of anti-heroes assigned by the U.S. government to neutralize Sentry; however, this was not the direction the movie ultimately took.

Thunderbolts differs significantly from Suicide Squad. Unlike the latter, where a central authority assembles its members, characters in Thunderbolts, ranging from Black Widow to Ant-Man, come together due to an unusual alignment of events and what seems like good intentions. The newly formed team, now known as the New Avengers, has proven to be one of the most intriguing sets of heroes in the series thus far, and their unique dynamics beg for further exploration.

Antonia Dreykov’s Fate Was Surprising

First appearance: Black Widow. Portrayed by Olga Kurylenko.

Antonia Dreykov’s story is deeply tainted by sorrow. When Natasha Romanoff fled the Red Room, she accidentally destroyed the building where Antonia was located. For years, Antonia believed she was an unintended casualty in Natasha’s attempt to harm Dreykov. However, against all odds, Antonia survived and faced a destiny that could be more dreadful than death itself. Her father transformed her into his own weapon, the Taskmaster, using a brain implant to control her abilities.

Fans speculated that Taskmaster wouldn’t appear in Thunderbolts* anymore due to his absence in promotional materials, predicting his early demise in the movie. Their assumption proved correct. While audiences anticipated Antonia to die in a selfless act of redemption for a teammate, it was Ghost who ended her life before the heroes could realize they were being deceived. The director, Jake Schreier, stated that Antonia’s death served as a warning about the perilous lives these characters lead, suggesting their sudden disappearance is always possible. However, Taskmaster’s ultimate end came as an unexpected and underwhelming twist.

*Thunderbolts refers to a fictional superhero team in Marvel Comics.

Valentina Allegra de Fontaine Brought The Team Together

First appearance: The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Portrayed by Julia Louis-Dreyfus.

Initially, it was thought that Valentina Allegra de Fontaine would serve as the manipulative leader of the Thunderbolts similar to Amanda Waller in DC’s Suicide Squad. However, this assumption is both accurate and misleading. While Valentina orchestrated their assembly by deceiving them into attempting to eliminate one another, thus eliminating evidence of her own corruption, she did not compel them to work together. Instead, her plan backfired when they united against her. Interestingly enough, she unknowingly bestowed the title of “New Avengers” upon them through a media stunt.

Ever since her first appearance, Valentina has established herself as one of the most formidable characters in today’s Marvel Cinematic Universe. She doesn’t hesitate to target anyone with her team, and she often exploits her teammates’ weaknesses for her advantage. Power is her sole focus, making her relentless. The New Avengers’ success in subduing her showcases their unwavering resolve.

Yelena Belova Is The Movie’s Heart

First appearance: Black Widow. Portrayed by Florence Pugh.

In the movie Black Widow, Yelena Belova initially appeared with a veil of aggression and anger towards her sister, whom she thought had deserted her at the Red Room. However, as the story unfolded, she gradually revealed more of her emotional turmoil until she embraced love for the family she rebuilt. Unfortunately, this bond was shattered when her sister sacrificed herself on Vormir, leaving Yelena in a state of fury similar to the angry young girl she once was.

In the midst of her emotional upheaval, Thunderbolt encounters her. Despite working as a mercenary for Valentina, she feels hollow within. This swift transition to providing emotional aid to the team and becoming Bob’s emotional pillar is effortless due to these circumstances. The film powerfully portrays the struggles of these ex-villains, but it’s Yelena’s sorrow that resonates most intensely – a pain that Florence Pugh delivers with striking authenticity.

Alexei Shostakov Is The Film’s Comic Relief

First appearance: Black Widow. Portrayed by David Harbour.

In the makeshift family assembled by Dreykov from his elite soldiers, Alexei Shostakov, or the Red Guardian, played a paternal role. While their bond was strictly professional, it became apparent that he valued the life they shared, particularly with Melina. He tirelessly worked to aid them in bringing down Dreykov. The ending of Black Widow left Alexei’s future uncertain as he set off with Yelena to dismantle other Red Room bases worldwide; their journey continued beyond the film’s end.

According to Thunderbolts’ revelations, Alexei was not included in Valentina’s squad. Instead, he was battling depression and making a living from his limo service, remnants of his past glory. It was during this period that Yelena reached out to him for a conversation. Eventually, he joined the team when he drove for Valentina, uncovering her sinister intentions towards Yelena and the other mercenaries. Upon discovering Valentina’s plan to eliminate them all, Red Guardian sprang into action promptly. Known for his quirky personality, Alexei serves as a source of humor in the movie. However, his emotional bond with Yelena, which includes her affectionately calling him “daddy,” will undoubtedly tug at the audience’s heartstrings.

Bucky’s Political Career Put Him On The Path To This New Team

First appearance: Captain America: The First Avenger. Portrayed by Sebastian Stan.

Among Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) characters, Bucky’s backstory is arguably one of the most intricate. Initially introduced as Steve Rogers’ loyal friend, he later faced a tragic twist when he mysteriously disappeared and was subsequently taken by HYDRA, transforming him into the Winter Soldier. After a considerable lapse of time, James Barnes, once upon a time, has advanced to become a congressman. However, it seems challenging for him to keep his distance from conflict-ridden scenarios.

It was believed that a significant event would need to occur for Bucky to collaborate closely with John Walker, who many felt dishonored Steve Rogers’ legacy through his aggressive and senseless actions. However, as the Thunderbolts revealed, this assumption proved true. Bucky has decided to join forces with the Thunderbolts in order to neutralize Valentina, whom he considers a greater danger than Walker. Given his extensive experience as a hero, Bucky serves as the voice of reason among the team members. The fact that the Thunderbolts are now functioning as the New Avengers and are embroiled in a legal dispute with Sam Wilson’s Avengers will undoubtedly alter the relationship between the Winter Soldier and Captain America, making for an intriguing dynamic shift.

John Walker Has Been Officially Redeemed By Thunderbolts*

First appearance: The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Portrayed by Wyatt Russell.

Following Steve Rogers’ passing, John Walker assumed the role of Captain America. His apprehension about making mistakes propelled him into riskier territory, even going against advice by ingesting the super soldier serum. This reckless action resulted in him losing his title as Captain America after he decapitated a surrendering Flag-Smasher using the emblematic shield, thereby solidifying his image as a villain. In turn, Valentina enlisted him to carry out her underhanded tasks.

He has been brought down by life’s harsh realities. His shield, career, and personal life – including his wife and child – were all sacrificed due to his relentless pursuit of heroism. The New Avengers presents an opportunity for him to make amends, and surprisingly, many fans find themselves rooting for him. However, his past mistakes persist, opening up possibilities for further character growth in the series. Essentially, he’s become a more pitiable figure, leaving viewers pleasantly surprised by their newfound affection for him.

Ghost Was a Victim of Circumstance

First appearance: Ant-Man and the Wasp. Portrayed by Hannah John-Kamen.

Following a tragic accident during her youth that left her with unstable molecular structure, Ava Starr’s parents perished in a quantum entanglement mishap. Over time, she developed the unique abilities of intangibility and invisibility. S.H.I.E.L.D., recognizing these powers, recruited her but later neglected her needs. Desperate for Quantum Energy to sustain herself, she took drastic steps that ultimately led her to become a villain in the Ant-Man series. It’s essential to note that Ava never harbored malicious intentions; she was merely trying to survive.

Prior to the release of Thunderbolts, viewers anticipated the film would shed light on how Ava became entangled with Valentina. However, this aspect wasn’t explored. Instead, the movie revealed that she had been employed as one of her mercenaries due to a lack of significant activities in her life apart from her career exploits. Now, the New Avengers offer Ghost an opportunity to demonstrate that her villainous past was merely a regrettable phase that can be left behind.

Melissa Was Central To Taking Valentina Down

First appearance: Thunderbolts.* Portrayed by Geraldine Viswanathan.

It’s been eagerly anticipated, but Geraldine Viswanathan’s entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe has finally materialized. While fans initially hoped she would portray Kamala Khan, that part went to Iman Vellani instead. Now, with Ayo Edebiri unable to proceed due to scheduling conflicts, Viswanathan steps into the role previously held by Edebiri in Thunderbolts.

It took some time for fans to find out who Geraldine Viswanathan was going to portray in the film, as Marvel Studios is skilled at keeping secrets. Her character, Melissa Gold, served as Valentina’s personal assistant and found herself in a difficult position, torn between doing what was right and complying with her corrupt boss’s demands. In the end, it was Mel who played a crucial role in bringing down Valentina since she acted as a whistleblower. Without Mel revealing all she knew to Bucky, Valentina might have escaped justice for her crimes.

Bob May Be The Most Powerful Character In The MCU So Far

First appearance: Thunderbolts.* Portrayed by Lewis Pullman.

Similar to Ayo Edebiri’s predicament, Steven Yeun, originally cast for Thunderbolts, was forced to withdraw due to conflicts in his schedule. Subsequently, it was disclosed that Lewis Pullman would take over Yeun’s role as Robert Reynolds. Pullman delivered an impressive performance, particularly since he portrayed both the least harmful character and the most dangerous in the film.

In a nutshell, Bob is a sweet, timid, and endearing individual who unbeknownst to him, has been impacted by Valentina’s research on super soldiers. This results in him possessing extraordinary powers, but at a great cost – if he loses self-control, he transforms into the Void, an entity capable of plunging others into their deepest fears. The movie delves deeply into Bob’s internal struggle with mental illness to keep the Void at bay, presenting a compelling and moving tale. In *Thunderbolts*, we see Bob reluctant to use his powers due to fear of losing control again, yet fans anticipate that he may embrace the Sentry identity in the future.

2025-05-19 03:54