Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe is Black Panther: Wakanda forever. Not only did the film turn out to be a commercial success for the production giant, it also made fans believe they were trying to see exciting new stories and new heroes in a batch of upcoming films. But everything crashed when I liked the movie Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania and Amazing It has earned negative reviews from critics and viewers. Thankfully, movies like movies Galaxy Guardians, and Deadpool & Wolverine I’ve made things better for Marvel. However, the franchise was still looking for that film that would connect with its fans on a more emotional level. It’s coming in Thunderbolts*, A film about an anti-hero group that reminded viewers of why they fell in love with the MCU in the first place.
The film chronicles the journey of several characters – Yelena Belova (played by Florence Pugh), John Walker (played by Wyatt Russell), Ghost (played by Hannah John-Kamen), and Taskmaster (played by Olga Kurylenko) – who are sent to mysterious places to destroy the entire facility. But no one knows that they were sent there (played by Julia Louis Dreyfus), and upon arrival there they oppose each other in a fatal conflict. A while later they come across a mysterious figure named Bob (played by Lewis Pullman), whose strangely calm attitude and appearance of the place quickly set him apart from the chaos around him. Once the story is unleashed, the group realizes that something ominous is held behind the walls of this facility, and they may have to gather together to stop Valentina from doing something demonic. What happens next is a fascinating blend of betrayal, survival and red, as reluctant heroes are forced to stand up not only fatal plots but also ghosts from their past.
Stills from “Thunderbolts*” (Image provided by Marvel)
A superhero movie to become deeper
At the center of it, Thunderbolts* It’s about broken people trying to find wholeness. Yes, it has a lot of superhero spectacles, but what sets it apart is the way it dares to ask. After a very long time, Amazing Create a story that gives each character a breathing moment. Walker continues to wrestlech with his legacy, seeking red in conflict with authority. But that’s not the case, he also faces many problems on a more personal level. The Ghost is suffering, quiet, listened, literally plagued, her internal conflict is very persuasive. Meanwhile, Yelena is unable to advance her life again, experiencing some of the most difficult missions. But what works out is that the film’s story doesn’t run through these stories. Instead, it allows them to unfold organically
Another aspect of making Thunderbolts* Such a rivet watch is a brave engagement with mental health. Through its characters, especially Yelena and Bob, the film explores the dangerous effects of PTSD, identity fragmentation, and the use of it as a tool rather than being treated as a person. The film has many moments that resonate with the characters, but even the strongest people have deep pain, shows Yelena’s story arc and how healing begins when they finally see it. This theme resonates across the screen. In a cinematic universe known for its battles and exaggeration, the film says that real victory will survive your own mind, and healing can come from solidarity as well as strength.
Florence Pugh is shining, but Harbor is a scene steeler
Still Florence Pugh and David Harbor from “Thunderbolts*” (Image source: Marvel)
This is a Florence Pooh film, and she is an exceptional one like Yelena Belova. Her performance balances Third Nick Whit with deep vulnerability, with Pugh offering both action sequences and quieter, emotionally recharged moments. She raises every scene she is in. This is her film, and she owns it with a magnetic, live performance. David Harbor steals almost every scene he appears in as Alexei/The Red Guardian. His protective instincts, his unfiltered humor and his incredible emotional insights provide that heart to the film.
Supporting cast for this film – Sebastian Stan, Wyatt Russell, Hannah John Kamen, Lewis Pullman, Jurial Is Dreyfuss and Geraldine Viswanathan are just as great, enhancing the viewing experience.
Is Thunderbolts* worth watching?
The direction is tight and intentional, balancing kinetic movements with intimate character moments. Cinematography, especially during the Shadow Enger scene, is creepy and surreal. whole, Thunderbolts* It is a thrilling, emotionally rich, thematically bold MCU entry, combining superhero spectacles with grounded explorations for trauma and healing. It reminds us that even in the world of power and portals, sometimes the greatest strength is not merely for glory, but for each other, to live, to feel, to fight another day.
It has been one of the most important Marvel films in recent years. It not only intriguing you, it also makes you feel like you’re seen in mental health-related issues. wonderful!
