‘Thunderbolts*’ Will Ditch CGI for Practical Action & Stunts, Sebastian Stan Promises

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Ever since the debut of the first trailer for Marvel Studio’s “Thunderbolts,” it has developed a distinct vibe in terms of tone and style. The movie, featuring an ethically questionable team of anti-heroes, sets itself apart from other Marvel Studios projects due to its unique ensemble cast, which includes talented actors like Florence Pugh, Wyatt Russell, and others yet unnamed. As suggested by the Winter Soldier actor, “Thunderbolts” stands out as something exceptional within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, having received strong support from Marvel Studios’ leadership, and marking a departure from a controversial trend in the MCU.

During an interview with Deadline, Stan highlighted what sets Thunderbolts apart from other Marvel films – not just by its star-studded cast, but also through its unique approach to action scenes. Remarkably, the Golden Globe winner shared that practical effects were utilized more frequently than the CGI commonly associated with Marvel productions. In simpler terms, Stan pointed out that real-life stunts and props were used instead of computer-generated imagery in many instances.

This production carries an authentic atmosphere, it’s humorously engaging, and it’s truly genuine – we performed real-life stunts, so when you see a truck explode on screen, it’s not computer-generated imagery (CGI), it’s a real explosion. Marvel aimed to create something unique, and I believe the practical effects used in the movie significantly enhance its appeal, as people are intelligent and can discern authenticity.

Sebastian Stan Compares Thunderbolts* to a Brat Pack Classic

The actor who began playing the MCU’s Bucky Barnes since the initial release of “Captain America” back in 2011 recently likened “Thunderbolts” to a timeless ’80s movie by John Hughes, similar to his Brat Pack films.

*Note: Thunderbolts is not an actual film but a hypothetical one for the purpose of this example.

I find this Marvel film unique compared to its predecessors, mainly due to the ensemble cast featuring David Harbour, Florence Pugh, Wyatt Russell, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus. I must say, I had an unparalleled enjoyment working with these talented individuals. Each of them is witty, kind, and their camaraderie truly shines in the movie. I believe the audience will appreciate this chemistry when they watch it. The film has a touch of ‘The Breakfast Club’ vibe to it.

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I’ve noticed that Marvel Studios’ movies, while captivating, have been under scrutiny for their extensive use of CGI and late revisions, often resulting in less-than-stellar visual effects. On the other hand, series like Mission: Impossible and John Wick, when given the chance, opt for practical effects, a choice that has earned them praise from both critics and viewers. As action films progress, Marvel Studios now stands at the threshold of incorporating more practical-focused action sequences, a move that could potentially elevate their already impressive cinematic universe.

Stan’s remarks suggest a promising evolution in Marvel Studios’ upcoming projects, as seen in the trailers for the movie, Thunderbolts. It features captivating stunts, like Florence Pugh’s character Yelena Belova leaping from the world’s second-tallest building, and exhilarating motorcycle scenes starring Stan as Bucky Barnes. Additionally, given the team’s character dynamics, intense, raw action seems more fitting for characters such as John Walker and the Red Guardian, portrayed by David Harbour.

In 2025, “Thunderbolts” will be the middle film among three Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) releases. It is scheduled to appear after “Captain America: Brave New World,” which comes out in February, and before “Fantastic Four: First Steps,” set for July release. Marvel Studios has an exciting lineup of films for the upcoming year, and we eagerly anticipate that “Thunderbolts” will meet Sebastian Stan’s expectations as one of the most distinctive and realistic additions to the MCU so far.

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2025-01-08 19:06