“Thunderbolts*” follows an unconventional team of antiheroes who embark on a dangerous mission that forces them to confront the darkest corners of their pasts.
Florence Pugh steals the show in “Thunderbolts*.” She continues to prove her star power, delivering one of her most layered performances to date. Her diverse capabilities shine as she fully embodies Yelena, bringing an emotional authenticity that grounds the film.
David Harbour, Wyatt Russell, Sebastian Stan, Olga Kurylenko, and Hannah John-Kamen all shine in their roles. But it’s Lewis Pullman who stands out alongside Pugh as the emotional core of the film. Their dynamic adds real weight to the story.
A Grounded MCU Shift
“Thunderbolts*” might be the heaviest Marvel film yet, tackling themes of depression, self-identity, and grief. The weight doesn’t just fall on the heroes – the villain grapples with these issues too. Every character feels relatable in some way, making the stakes feel personal.
The final act delivers an emotional wallop. While it ends with a familiar MCU-style showdown, this one feels different. It’s more grounded, more affecting. The film’s last hour ranks among the best in the franchise – driven by character, message, and action that actually matters.
A Visual Tone That Matches the Story
The cinematography fits the film’s stripped-down tone. Unlike the glossy aesthetic of many Marvel entries, this is gritty, street-level storytelling. The action sequences bring a creative punch, with immersive visuals that avoid the CGI bloat so common in recent finales.
Like the characters it follows, “Thunderbolts*” is messy. The first hour stumbles with pacing while trying to establish the ensemble. It takes time to set the table, introducing new players and dynamics. But the investment pays off as the second half kicks into gear.
A Darker, Bolder Step for the MCU
“Thunderbolts*” signals a new direction for the MCU – one that prioritizes character over spectacle. It leans into weighty subject matter and delivers a grounded, human story. While the early momentum lags, the film finds its footing and becomes something special by the end.
Rating: 4 out of 5
