Marvel's Thunderbolts film is a standout, delivering exceptional quality in the Marvel Cinematic Universe after a significant period.
A Fresh Spin on Marvel Mayhem: Thunderbolts
Feeling a bit weary after the glittery action fests of the Marvel Cinematic Universe? Fear not! The new movie, Thunderbolts, might just be the breath of fresh air you've been craving. In a world reeling from the departure of the Avengers, it's time to root for a new squad of heroes, or anti-heroes, if you will.
In this thrilling tale, CIA director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfuss) summons a group of questionable characters to carry out her dubious missions. These motley crew members include assassin Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), ex-Captain America John Walker (Wyatt Russell), and former Ant-Man adversary Ghost (Hannah-John Kamen).
When Valentina herself falls under investigation, she seals the evidence of her illegal biological experiments, along with her recruits, in a fiery oblivion.managed to escape at the last moment, these reluctant allies take to the winds, seeking safety. But when one of Valentina's experiments, Bob (Lewis Pullman), becomes a lethal threat, they find themselves joined by former Avenger Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) in their quest for survival.
So, how well do you have to know the Marvel universe to enjoy Thunderbolts? Well, fans of the Black Widow and Falcon and the Winter Soldier mini-series will likely recognize the new gang, but they're far from the A-list superheroes we're accustomed to. Smartly, the film doesn't drown us in lore, allowing newcomers to easily catch on to the basic idea that these are villains-turned-heroes.
The film also offers more than just high-octane action, opting for a thought-provoking storyline that tackles the heavy theme of trauma. Characters grapple with the pain of their past and even consider the idea of ending it all. Yelena is haunted by her guilt, Walker deals with a fractured marriage, and Bob's enigmatic nature deconstructs the concept of superheroism.
In some ways, Thunderbolts represents Marvel's introspective moment, questioning the very essence of heroism and the void it leaves behind. Though the third act takes this concept too literally, it's refreshing to have a film that prioritizes storytelling over franchise expansion.
Despite its darker tonality, Thunderbolts is an enjoyable and humorous ride. The unusual camaraderie between the misfits recall the snappy banter that made Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad so entertaining. The action is grittier, as the team focuses more on brute force and gunplay rather than showy superpowers.
Pugh's portrayal of Yelena as a rugged anti-heroine in search of family steals the show, but Stan's performance as the now-politically savvy Bucky Barnes is also captivating. Red Guardian, played by David Harbour, provides the necessary comic relief as a Russian Captain America knockoff and Yelena's estranged father, attempting to reclaim his glory days.
Dreyfuss delivers a devilishly delightful performance as the morally bankrupt Nick Fury-esque de Fontaine, firing off caustic quips and manipulating her subordinates with ease. Pullman might be the standout, however, as the enigmatic Bob, exhibiting a remarkable range in his dual role as both victim and threat.
Thunderbolts may not be the game-changer the MCU needs, but it's an entertaining detour that demonstrates the rewards of shaking up the formula. Catch Thunderbolts in theaters now!
Thunderbolts is now screening in cinemas near you!
Useful data:
- Plot: Antiheroes are brought together after escaping a dangerous situation orchestrated by a CIA director. Their journey involves fighting a powerful villain, who is initially a peaceful character with a puzzling past.
- Main Characters: Yelena Belova (a guilt-stricken assassin), John Walker (a complex anti-hero), Ava Starr (the Ghost), Alexei Shostakov (the Red Guardian), Bucky Barnes (the Winter Soldier), Bob (the mysterious friendly figure who later reveals himself as Sentry/Void), and Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (the cunning CIA director).
- The thrilling movie, Thunderbolts, deconstructs the concept of superheroism with its unconventional cast of mercenaries like Yelena Belova and former Avenger Bucky Barnes.
- In the world of Thunderbolts, the established heroes like the Avengers take a backseat, and a new squad of risks, including John Walker and Ava Starr, grabs the spotlight.
- Thunderbolts, a new addition to movies-and-tv in entertainment, doesn't shy away from tackling complex themes like trauma and offers more than just high-octane action, making it a refreshing breather from the traditional Marvel movies.
