Thunderbolts Packs Flawed Heroes, Dark Laughs, and MCU Redemption—But Does It Out-Avenger Avengers?

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Imagine a group of antiheroes teaming up to defeat a common foe.

We’ve already seen that with not one but two “Suicide Squad” films. Now, it’s the MCU’s turn.

Thunderbolts” adheres consistently to its unique formula, underscoring the vital role humor plays in its success. The outcome? A Marvel Cinematic Universe film that lives up to expectations and delivers standout performances from the film’s Russian cast members.

Awkward!

In a fresh take on things, Director Jake Schreier (“Robot & Frank”) brings back Yelena Belova, portrayed by Florence Pugh, who’s more comfortable with firearms than peace talks. The initial action scene, captured from an elevated perspective, hints that this won’t be just another run-of-the-mill franchise addition.

Schreier means business. So does Pugh, who anchors the ensemble in ways only the best actors.

Yelena is quickly dispatched to an enigmatic destination where she encounters other extraordinary individuals with supernatural abilities. This group includes John Walker, who’s often compared to Captain America, the Ghost from “Ant Man and the Wasp,” and a puzzled Bob, the son of Bill Pullman.

What about Bob, you say? He’s critical to the story, but we can’t say more than that.

They swiftly understand they’re pieces being maneuvered in a game orchestrated by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (portrayed by Julia Louis-Dreyfus). Her intentions, which make her a figure under scrutiny on Capitol Hill, involve establishing a new team reminiscent of the Avengers. She’s prepared to go to any lengths to achieve this goal.

An unanticipated group of heroes need to join forces to prevent de Fontaine’s schemes, thereby initiating the peculiar movement of this mismatched team.

Besides Yelena, there are other characters who aspire to be like Thunderbolt; these include Yelena’s father, the charismatic Red Guardian played by David Harbour, and Congressman Bucky Barnes, better known as The Winter Soldier, portrayed by Sebastian Stan.

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Thunderbolts” seems untouched by the same hand that crafted “Captain America: Brave New World” and distances itself from the odor associated with “The Marvels.” Instead, it offers a strong narrative populated by intriguing characters, crisp dialogues, and ample humor.

As a devoted cinephile, I must admit that Harbor’s unyielding enthusiasm to don the hero’s mantle again never fails to captivate me, and it seldom feels overly familiar or tired.

Other characters grapple with deep internal struggles. Yelena’s complex history casts a shadow on her and the task at hand. John Walker’s personal issues with his marriage are an ever-present burden for him. He embodies the flawed image of a patriotic hero, and he is more aware than anyone else of this imperfection.

Unfortunately, the opening scene of the movie, which unfolds within a vast, vault-like setting, drags on for quite some time. While the overall pace of the film is swift, this prolonged segment slows down the movie’s flow.

In this screenplay, primarily written by Eric Pearson and Joanna Calo, the focus heavily emphasizes the dynamic between the characters as teammates. They frequently discuss this aspect, deliberately avoiding any natural development of their bond.

Think the “family” blather in your average “Fast & Furious” movie, and you’ll get the gist.

The original dynamic among the team members remains effective, as the characters with significant flaws come to understand that going beyond mere aid for innocents is crucial in achieving their goal – ultimately saving the day.

It’s therapeutic.

That’s quite a potent theme for an action-packed superhero story, particularly one aimed at maintaining the freshness of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

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Schreier effectively delivers in terms of action sequences, although none since “The Avengers” have managed to surpass the level of action presented in the two-part finale.

Not even close.

The “Thunderbolts” sequence offers an unpredictable blend of intense action sequences, culminating in a final scene that showcases creativity and novelty. It’s both astonishing and surprising.

As a dedicated cinema enthusiast, I must confess that the film “Thunderbolts” overdoes it with the Avengers references. Frankly, these comparisons seldom do justice, and it’s highly unlikely that these underdog heroes will one day share the limelight with the mighty Thor or Hulk.

The movie’s impact is significant. It revitalizes the importance of the Marvel Cinematic Universe once more, although the post-credit scenes may not contribute much to the broader narrative as previous films have done seamlessly.

HiT or Miss: “Thunderbolts” serves up some less-than-super heroes who charm us all the same.

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2025-04-29 20:03