In-Depth Recap of Thunderbolts* (2025)

Thunderbolts* (2025), directed by Jake Schreier, is a standout entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), blending gritty action, emotional depth, and intricate connections to the broader franchise. Released on May 2, 2025, the film assembles a team of antiheroes—Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), Red Guardian (David Harbour), Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko), John Walker (Wyatt Russell), and Bob Reynolds (Lewis Pullman)—under the manipulative control of Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus). This in-depth recap covers the plot, key events, character arcs, themes, and MCU connections, offering a comprehensive look at this pivotal Phase Five film.

Plot Summary

Thunderbolts* opens with Yelena Belova, still grappling with the loss of her sister Natasha Romanoff from Avengers: Endgame (Avengers: Endgame Review), working as a black-ops agent for Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. Emotionally numb and contemplating retirement, Yelena is dispatched to the O.X.E. Kuala Lumpur Research Facility to destroy evidence linking de Fontaine to the secretive Sentry project. At the facility, she crosses paths with John Walker (U.S. Agent), Ava Starr (Ghost), and Antonia Dreykov (Taskmaster), all employed by de Fontaine, who is under Congressional investigation for her shady dealings with the OXE Group.

The narrative shifts as Yelena and her fellow operatives are ambushed at the O.X.E. Vault in Utah, where de Fontaine attempts to eliminate them in an incineration trap. During the chaos, Ghost kills Taskmaster, and the group escapes with Bob Reynolds, an unassuming man who is revealed to be far from ordinary. Joined by Red Guardian (Alexei Shostakov) and Bucky Barnes, now a Congressman pushing for de Fontaine’s impeachment, the team—dubbed the Thunderbolts—forms an uneasy alliance to take down their manipulative employer.

The stakes escalate when de Fontaine coerces Reynolds into becoming Sentry, a superhuman with immense power, at the Watchtower, a repurposed Stark Tower. The Thunderbolts launch an assault to stop him, but Sentry transforms into his darker alter ego, The Void, after Mel Gold (Geraldine Viswanathan), de Fontaine’s assistant, activates a kill switch. Yelena, inspired by Red Guardian’s mentorship, confronts The Void, facing her own past traumas in the process. The team unites to help Reynolds battle The Void in a mental projection, ultimately reversing the destruction threatening New York.

Fourteen months later, the Thunderbolts, now rebranded as the New Avengers, navigate a new crisis involving an extra-dimensional spacecraft bearing a “4” insignia, hinting at the Fantastic Four’s arrival. The film closes with Yelena’s defiant line to de Fontaine, “We own you now,” signaling the team’s newfound agency.

Key Events

The following table outlines the major plot points in Thunderbolts*:

Event	Description
Yelena’s Mission	Yelena infiltrates the O.X.E. Kuala Lumpur Research Facility to erase Sentry project evidence, encountering John Walker, Ghost, and Taskmaster.
O.X.E. Vault Ambush	The team is ambushed at the O.X.E. Vault in Utah; Ghost kills Taskmaster, and they escape de Fontaine’s incineration trap with Bob Reynolds.
Thunderbolts Formed	Red Guardian and Bucky join, forming the Thunderbolts, who escape O.X.E.’s strike team with Reynolds’ help.
Bucky’s Capture	Bucky captures the Thunderbolts to testify against de Fontaine, who is under investigation.
Sentry’s Emergence	De Fontaine manipulates Reynolds into becoming Sentry at the Watchtower, escalating the threat.
Void’s Rampage	Sentry transforms into The Void after a kill switch; the Thunderbolts assault the Watchtower but retreat.
Confronting The Void	Yelena, inspired by Red Guardian, faces The Void, and the team helps Reynolds reverse its effects in a mental battle.
New Avengers Era	Fourteen months later, the New Avengers face a space crisis involving a Fantastic Four spacecraft.

Character Arcs

• Yelena Belova: Yelena begins the film in a dark place, contemplating suicide and retirement due to her sister’s death. Her journey to leadership, inspired by Red Guardian and her confrontation with The Void, marks her as the team’s emotional core (Florence Pugh’s Performance).
• Bucky Barnes: As a Congressman, Bucky seeks to hold de Fontaine accountable but joins the Thunderbolts, reflecting his ongoing struggle to reconcile his past as the Winter Soldier with his present role.
• Red Guardian (Alexei Shostakov): Alexei serves as a mentor to Yelena, offering humor and wisdom rooted in his Soviet nostalgia. His guidance helps her find purpose.
• John Walker (U.S. Agent) : Walker’s arc focuses on redemption, though details are sparse. His presence ties to his struggles in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (Falcon and Winter Soldier Review).
• Ava Starr (Ghost) : Ghost’s motivations are unclear, but her killing of Taskmaster suggests internal conflict or loyalty shifts.
• Taskmaster (Antonia Dreykov) : Taskmaster’s arc ends abruptly with her death, highlighting the team’s volatility.
• Bob Reynolds (Sentry/The Void) : Reynolds’ transformation into Sentry and The Void drives the plot. His redemption, aided by the team, underscores the film’s themes.
• Valentina Allegra de Fontaine : As the antagonist, de Fontaine’s manipulation of the team and creation of Sentry position her as a power-hungry schemer, setting up future conflicts.
• Mel Gold : Potentially Melissa Gold (Songbird), her role as de Fontaine’s assistant and activation of the kill switch hints at a larger future arc.

Themes and Analysis

Thunderbolts* delves into redemption, identity, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. Each character grapples with past mistakes, making their psychological struggles central to the narrative. Yelena’s arc, in particular, resonates as she navigates grief and finds purpose, echoing Natasha’s legacy in Black Widow (Black Widow Review).

The film critiques manufactured heroism through de Fontaine’s creation of Sentry, reflecting MCU themes of unchecked power seen in Iron Man 3 and Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Its indie-inspired tone, drawing from films like Reservoir Dogs and Oldboy, sets it apart, offering a gritty, character-driven experience (Thunderbolts A24 Trailer).

As a bridge between the MCU’s past and future, Thunderbolts* honors the original Avengers while introducing the New Avengers, poised to face multiversal threats in Avengers: Doomsday.

MCU Connections

• Black Widow (2021) : Yelena’s backstory and Natasha’s legacy drive her arc.
• The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021) : John Walker’s U.S. Agent role and Bucky’s redemption continue here.
• Captain America: Brave New World (2025) : Bucky’s congressional role and Red Hulk references tie in (Brave New World Review).
• The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025) : The post-credits spacecraft with a “4” insignia sets up the Fantastic Four.
• Avengers: Doomsday (2027) : The New Avengers are positioned as key players.

Critical Reception

Critics praise Thunderbolts* for its emotional depth and performances, particularly Pugh and Pullman. Roger Ebert notes its “richer acting” and “emotionally grounded” finale, though the first act feels weak (Roger Ebert Review). Rotten Tomatoes calls it a “breath of fresh air” for the MCU, with strong character development (Rotten Tomatoes Reviews). NPR highlights its blend of “misfit mercenaries and pop psychology” (NPR Review).

Conclusion

Thunderbolts* is a compelling MCU entry that balances action, introspection, and franchise setup. Its focus on flawed characters, combined with a unique tone and pivotal MCU connections, makes it a must-watch for fans. As the New Avengers rise, the film sets the stage for an exciting future in the Multiverse Saga.

Iconic Dialogues from Thunderbolts (2025): A Deep Dive into Memorable Lines

Thunderbolts (2025), directed by Jake Schreier, is a standout Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film that brings together a team of antiheroes—Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), Red Guardian (David Harbour), and others—for a mission filled with action, emotion, and moral complexity. Released on May 2, 2025, the film is celebrated for its character-driven narrative and indie-inspired tone, drawing from influences like Reservoir Dogs and Oldboy. Beyond its thrilling plot, * Thunderbolts* delivers dialogues that are raw, impactful, and deeply tied to its themes of redemption, teamwork, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. This comprehensive breakdown explores the most iconic dialogues from the film, their significance, and their role in shaping the narrative, drawing from reliable sources to ensure accuracy.

Overview of Thunderbolts

Thunderbolts follows a group of MCU antiheroes manipulated by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) into a deadly mission involving the powerful Sentry/The Void (Lewis Pullman). The film’s dialogues stand out for their emotional depth, humor, and connections to the MCU’s broader narrative, particularly through characters like Yelena, who grapples with her sister Natasha Romanoff’s death, and Bucky, who seeks to atone for his past as the Winter Soldier. These lines not only drive the story but also resonate with audiences, making them iconic within the context of the film and the MCU.

Iconic Dialogues and Their Significance

Below is a curated list of seven iconic dialogues from Thunderbolts, each accompanied by a brief explanation of its context, significance, and contribution to the film’s themes. These lines were selected based on their memorability, emotional impact, and representation of the characters’ arcs, as confirmed by sources like IMDb, Screen Rant, and Motivation Maze.

Dialogue	Character	Context	Significance
“We own you now.”	Yelena Belova	Spoken to Valentina Allegra de Fontaine as the final line before the credits.	This powerful declaration marks the Thunderbolts’ triumph over Valentina’s manipulation, symbolizing their newfound agency and unity as a team. It’s a bold, memorable closer that sets up future conflicts.
“The past doesn’t go away. So you can either live with it forever… or do something about it.”	Bucky Barnes	Said to Yelena during a discussion about their shared guilt and past actions.	This line encapsulates the film’s core theme of redemption, urging characters to take action rather than dwell on regret. It reflects Bucky’s growth and his role as a mentor figure.
“We can’t stop him alone. No one can. But we can find a way together.”	Yelena Belova	Spoken during a moment of crisis, likely referring to confronting The Void.	This dialogue underscores the importance of teamwork, a central pillar of the Thunderbolts’ journey from individuals to a found family. It’s a rallying cry that inspires unity.
“We’re brought up with this belief that there are good guys and there are bad guys, but eventually you come to realize that there are bad guys and there are worse guys.”	Valentina Allegra de Fontaine	A philosophical remark made during a confrontation with the team.	This line highlights Valentina’s cynical worldview and the film’s exploration of moral ambiguity, challenging traditional notions of heroism and villainy in the MCU.
“There’s something… wrong with me. An emptiness. I thought it started when my sister died, but now it feels like something bigger. Just a… void. Or maybe I’m just bored.”	Yelena Belova	Yelena’s opening lines, reflecting on her emotional state.	This introspective monologue sets up Yelena’s emotional arc, connecting her grief over Natasha’s death to the broader themes of loss and identity. It’s a poignant introduction to her character.
“Look at you. You are all so adorable. Just think, I send you down there to kill each other, and instead, you make nice and you form a team.”	Valentina Allegra de Fontaine	Said during a confrontation at the Watchtower, mocking the team’s unity.	This line reveals Valentina’s failed plan to pit the team against each other, showcasing her manipulative nature and the team’s unexpected strength in forming a bond.
“Yelena, being the hero, there is no higher calling. Your sister understood something about that.”	Red Guardian (Alexei Shostakov)	Spoken to Yelena, referencing her sister Natasha Romanoff.	This heartfelt moment ties Yelena’s journey to Natasha’s legacy, emphasizing the idea of heroism as a calling. It deepens the emotional bond between Yelena and Alexei.

Why These Dialogues Are Iconic

These dialogues stand out for several reasons:

• Thematic Resonance: Lines like Bucky’s “The past doesn’t go away” and Yelena’s “We can find a way together” directly tie into the film’s themes of redemption and teamwork, making them memorable and quotable.
• Character Depth: Each dialogue reveals key aspects of the characters’ personalities—Yelena’s vulnerability, Valentina’s cunning, Bucky’s wisdom, and Red Guardian’s heart.
• MCU Connectivity: References to Natasha Romanoff and the team’s evolution into the New Avengers connect these lines to the broader MCU narrative, resonating with fans.
• Emotional Impact: The dialogues balance humor, heart, and intensity, from Yelena’s raw opening monologue to the triumphant “We own you now,” ensuring they linger with audiences.

Additional Notable Dialogues

While the above are the most iconic, other lines from Thunderbolts also contribute to its memorable dialogue:

• Yelena Belova: “Eat shit, Valentina. Where’s Bob?”
  This defiant line showcases Yelena’s boldness and focus on the mission, adding a touch of humor and grit.
• Yelena Belova: “So none of us can fly? We all just punch and shoot?”
  A humorous observation about the team’s grounded abilities, highlighting their underdog status.
• The Void: “The most shameful thing of all was thinking that you could be anything more than nothing.”
  This self-deprecating remark adds depth to The Void’s character, reflecting his internal struggle.

These lines, while not as central as the primary seven, further enrich the film’s dialogue landscape, blending humor, introspection, and conflict.

Context Within the Film

Thunderbolts is a character-driven story about a group of antiheroes caught in a deadly trap by Valentina, who seeks to create a new superhero team under her control. The dialogues reflect the team’s evolution from distrustful individuals to a cohesive unit, facing a major threat in the form of The Void. The film’s indie-inspired tone, as noted in its A24-style trailer on Letterboxd (Thunderbolts A24 Trailer), amplifies the raw emotion in these lines, making them stand out in a blockbuster setting.

Critical Reception of the Dialogues

Critics have praised Thunderbolts for its dialogue, with Screen Rant noting that it features “some of the best (and funniest) lines in the MCU” (Screen Rant Quotes). The emotional weight of lines like Yelena’s opening monologue and Bucky’s redemption speech has been highlighted as a strength, with Roger Ebert calling the film “emotionally grounded” (Roger Ebert Review). The humor and heart in the dialogues, particularly from Yelena and Red Guardian, contribute to the film’s reputation as a “breath of fresh air” for the MCU (Rotten Tomatoes Reviews).

Comparison to Other MCU Films

Compared to other MCU films, Thunderbolts dialogues are more introspective and grounded, akin to Captain America: The Winter Soldier’s focus on moral complexity or Guardians of the Galaxy’s blend of humor and heart. Lines like Valentina’s “bad guys and worse guys” echo Tony Stark’s witty cynicism, while Yelena’s emotional lines recall Natasha’s vulnerability in Black Widow (Black Widow Review). This balance makes Thunderbolts dialogues uniquely impactful.

Conclusion

The iconic dialogues of Thunderbolts (2025) are a testament to its character-driven storytelling and emotional depth. From Yelena’s defiant “We own you now” to Bucky’s reflective “The past doesn’t go away,” these lines capture the film’s themes of redemption, unity, and moral ambiguity. They resonate with audiences through their humor, heart, and ties to the MCU’s broader narrative, ensuring their place as memorable quotes in the franchise. As Thunderbolts sets the stage for future MCU projects like The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Avengers: Doomsday, these dialogues will likely remain fan favorites, quoted and celebrated for years to come.

Thunderbolts* Breakdown: Easter Eggs & Details You Missed!

Hey, Marvel fans, welcome to Frame by Frame, the podcast where we unpack the hidden gems in your favorite films! Today, we’re diving into Thunderbolts, Marvel’s latest hit that dropped on May 2, 2025. Directed by Jake Schreier, this film assembles a crew of MCU antiheroes—Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, and more—for a mission that’s as chaotic as it is heartfelt. But beyond the action and drama, Thunderbolts is a goldmine of Easter eggs, comic book nods, and MCU connections that’ll make you want to rewatch it immediately. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s break down the details you might’ve missed!

Why Thunderbolts* Stands Out

Thunderbolts* isn’t your typical superhero flick. It’s about flawed characters—assassins, soldiers, and misfits—forced to work together while grappling with their pasts. Starring Florence Pugh as Yelena, Sebastian Stan as Bucky, David Harbour as Red Guardian, and a stellar ensemble, it’s a character-driven story with a gritty, almost indie vibe. But what makes it truly special for MCU fans are the clever references to past films, comics, and what’s coming next. From subtle visual cues to game-changing post-credits scenes, this movie rewards eagle-eyed viewers. Let’s get into the top 10 Easter eggs and details, followed by some broader connections that tie it all together.

10 Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

Here’s our countdown of the most exciting Easter eggs in Thunderbolts*, each with a quick explanation of why it matters:

1. Shadowy Marvel Studios Logo
   The film kicks off with a twist: the Marvel Studios logo is distorted, with colors fading into dark, shadowy visuals. This isn’t just a cool effect—it foreshadows the Void, the dark alter ego of Bob Reynolds, aka Sentry, played by Lewis Pullman. It’s a visual clue that sets up the film’s exploration of light versus darkness in its characters.
2. Yelena’s Oldboy-Inspired Fight
   Yelena’s first fight scene is a stunner, with shadowy visuals that echo the Void’s influence. Director Jake Schreier has cited Park Chan-wook’s Oldboy as an inspiration, particularly its iconic corridor fight (Oldboy Fight Scene). This nod blends art-house grit with Marvel’s blockbuster style, making Yelena’s action sequences unforgettable.
3. Valentina’s OXE Group
   Julia Louis-Dreyfus’s Valentina Allegra de Fontaine runs a shady organization called OXE. In the comics, OXE is tied to a Life Model Decoy of Valentina, hinting at her complex motives (Valentina’s OXE Backstory). In the film, OXE’s experiments, like Project Sentry, drive the plot and tease future conflicts.
4. Bucky’s Brooklyn Roots
   Bucky Barnes, once the Winter Soldier, is now a congressional representative for Brooklyn, tying back to his and Steve Rogers’ hometown. This detail, established in Captain America: Brave New World, shows Bucky’s growth into a leader. It’s a subtle nod that grounds his arc in his MCU origins.
5. Rogue Nations: Wakanda and Talokan
   Valentina name-drops Wakanda and Talokan, nations with vibranium-based tech from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. This reference connects Thunderbolts* to the MCU’s geopolitical landscape, hinting at tensions that could shape future stories. It’s a reminder that the world is bigger than this team.
6. Red Hulk Mention
   Valentina casually mentions a “giant red superhuman rage monster,” referring to President Thaddeus Ross’s Red Hulk transformation in Captain America: Brave New World (Red Hulk Origin). This ties Thunderbolts* to recent MCU events and adds stakes to the political intrigue.
7. Four Years Since Endgame
   A line from Valentina confirms it’s been four years since Avengers: Endgame, explaining why the Avengers haven’t reassembled. This timeline detail sets up the need for a new team—the New Avengers—and gives context to the MCU’s current state. It’s a small but crucial piece of world-building.
8. Red Guardian’s Soviet Nostalgia
   David Harbour’s Red Guardian, Alexei, is obsessed with his Soviet past, watching old propaganda footage and decorating his home with posters. This adds humor and depth to his character, showing his struggle to find purpose in a post-Cold War world. It’s a personal touch that makes him relatable.
9. Sentry’s Comic-Accurate Costume
   In the OXE vault, Yelena finds costume designs for Sentry, including one with the classic “S” logo from the comics. This is a love letter to fans, showing Marvel’s commitment to honoring Sentry’s 2000 comic debut. It’s a thrilling moment that teases his potential as a hero—or threat.
10. Battle of New York Artifacts
    Valentina’s gala showcases artifacts from 2012’s The Avengers, like Captain America’s shield, Iron Man’s helmet, and Loki’s scepter (which once held the Mind Stone). These nostalgic items tie Thunderbolts* to the MCU’s roots, reminding us of the heroes who came before.

Broader Connections and Trivia

Beyond these Easter eggs, Thunderbolts* weaves a web of connections to the MCU and its source material. Here are five key trivia points:

• The Asterisk’s Secret
  That asterisk in Thunderbolts* isn’t just quirky—it symbolizes the team’s evolving identity. Named after Yelena’s old football team, the “Westchester Big Valley Thunderbolts,” they become the “New Avengers” by the end, reflecting Valentina’s rebranding scheme. In the comics, the Thunderbolts often blur the line between heroes and villains, and this nod captures that spirit.
• New Avengers Logo
  The film introduces the New Avengers logo during a press conference: a bold, yellow font with an arrow-shaped crossbar in the “A,” inspired by the comics. It’s a visual cue that this team is stepping into the Avengers’ legacy, setting up their role in future films like Avengers: Doomsday.
• Fantastic Four Tease
  The second post-credits scene is a showstopper, revealing a Fantastic Four ship with their logo and Michael Giacchino’s theme from The Fantastic Four: First Steps (Fantastic Four Reboot). Filmed partly on the Avengers: Doomsday set (Doomsday Filming), it signals the Fantastic Four’s arrival in the main MCU timeline.
• Songbird Speculation
  Geraldine Viswanathan plays Mel, Valentina’s assistant, who wears a gold bird necklace—a hint she might be Melissa Gold, aka Songbird, a Thunderbolts comic staple. While not confirmed, this subtle clue has fans buzzing about her potential superhero future.
• Indie Vibes, Marvel Scale
  Schreier’s direction draws from films like Reservoir Dogs and Oldboy, giving Thunderbolts* an indie, character-driven feel. A unique trailer styled like an A24 film, released via Letterboxd, leaned into this vibe, highlighting the cast’s indie credentials. It’s a bold move that sets Thunderbolts* apart in the MCU.

Based on the buzz, it seems like fans are loving the nods to the comics and the wider MCU. Here are a few things that have caught people’s attention:

• Bucky’s Throwback Moves: Keep an eye out for Bucky’s action sequences! Some viewers have pointed out that his moves with the explosive discs are very reminiscent of his tactics in Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Plus, the way he handles a shotgun in one scene has a definite Terminator 2 vibe, which Sebastian Stan apparently leaned into by listening to the movie’s soundtrack while filming.
• Sentry’s Comic Accuracy: The introduction of Sentry (Bob Reynolds) seems to be hitting the mark with comic fans. His costume is described as being quite faithful to the source material, and the movie delves into his god-like powers and the emergence of his darker side, the Void.
• Dark Mirror to the Avengers: The dynamic between the Thunderbolts and the traditional Avengers is being highlighted, with some calling them a “dark mirror” to Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, similar to how the Void is a dark mirror to Sentry.
• Watchtower and Avengers Tower: The former Avengers Tower now being called the “Watchtower” in the movie is a direct reference to the comics, where the Watchtower serves as Sentry’s headquarters.
• “Golden Guardian of Good”: When the Sentry Project papers are shown, the description of Sentry as the “golden guardian of good” is a subtle but appreciated nod to his comic book moniker.
• Teamwork Hints: Even in the early chaotic scenes, there are glimpses of the Thunderbolts starting to work together, which is a key element of their journey in the comics.
• Title Change Reveal: The movie ends with Valentina rebranding the team as the “New Avengers,” a significant development that sets the stage for their future in the MCU. This has even led to the movie’s title being updated in some promotional materials.
• Fantastic Four Tease: Stick around for the post-credits scene! It reportedly features a nod to the arrival of the Fantastic Four in the MCU, with their iconic “4” logo appearing on a spacecraft.
• Music Easter Eggs: The film’s score is said to weave in themes from other MCU projects, including the main Avengers theme and Yelena’s theme from Black Widow.

It sounds like Thunderbolts is packed with details for eagle-eyed viewers! Did you have any specific scenes or characters in mind that you were curious about?

Wrapping Up

Thunderbolts* is a masterclass in balancing standalone storytelling with MCU connectivity. Its Easter eggs—whether visual nods like the shadowy logo, character callbacks like Bucky’s Brooklyn role, or teases like the Fantastic Four ship—make it a rewarding watch. These details don’t just serve fans; they deepen the story and pave the way for the Multiverse Saga’s next chapter. As we head toward The Fantastic Four: First Steps on July 25, 2025, and Avengers: Doomsday, Thunderbolts* proves Marvel still knows how to keep us hooked.

THUNDERBOLTS* movie reception, reviews, and earnings.

As of Tuesday, May 6, 2025, Thunderbolts has garnered a generally positive reception from both critics and audiences since its premiere. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a strong 88% critics score with an average rating of 7.3/10, indicating widespread approval. The audience score is even higher at 94%, suggesting that the movie has resonated well with general viewers. Metacritic assigned the film a score of 69 out of 100, based on a smaller sample of critics, which still denotes a generally favorable reception. CinemaScore reported an audience grade of “A-“, further highlighting positive viewer satisfaction. PostTrak also indicated strong audience favorability, with 71% giving a “definite recommend” and an average star rating of 4.5 out of 5.

Critics have lauded Thunderbolts as a refreshing entry in the MCU, praising its well-developed characters, particularly Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova and Lewis Pullman’s Sentry. The film’s exploration of themes like mental health, trauma, and the search for redemption has been noted as adding depth beyond typical superhero fare. Many reviewers highlighted the engaging action sequences, often described as more grounded and impactful than recent CGI-heavy MCU installments. The humor, while present, is generally considered well-balanced with the film’s more serious undertones. Some critics pointed out a slightly slower first act and a desaturated visual palette as minor drawbacks, but the overall consensus leans towards Thunderbolts being a solid and emotionally resonant addition to the franchise.

In its opening weekend, Thunderbolts secured the top spot at the box office, grossing an estimated $76 million domestically from 4,330 locations, with a per-screen average of $17,552. Globally, the film brought in $162.1 million, with $86.1 million coming from international markets across 53 territories. This opening places Thunderbolts as the third-highest-grossing film of 2025 so far, behind A Minecraft Movie and Captain America: Brave New World. While this opening is considered solid and in line with industry expectations for a film introducing a team of lesser-known characters, it falls slightly below the domestic opening of Captain America: Brave New World ($88.8 million).

Compared to other May MCU releases, Thunderbolts‘ opening weekend is on the lower end, only surpassing Thor‘s debut in 2011. However, analysts suggest that the positive critical and audience reception, indicated by strong word-of-mouth and favorable exit polls, could lead to strong legs in the coming weeks. The film’s production budget is reported to be around $180 million, so its continued performance will be crucial for profitability. Initial international performance was led by China ($10.4 million), followed by the UK/Ireland ($7.7 million) and Mexico ($7.3 million). The rebranding of the team as the “New Avengers” at the end of the film has also generated significant buzz, potentially impacting its future box office trajectory and audience interest in subsequent MCU projects featuring these characters. As of Monday, May 5, the domestic total for Thunderbolts stood at $79.31 million.

Comprehensive Report on Thunderbolts (2025) Reception and Reviews

Thunderbolts (2025), directed by Jake Schreier and released on May 2, 2025, marks the 36th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and the final installment of Phase Five. Featuring an ensemble cast led by Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova, alongside Sebastian Stan, David Harbour, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, the film follows a team of antiheroes caught in a deadly trap orchestrated by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. This report provides an in-depth analysis of the film’s critical reception, audience response, notable reviews, awards, and commercial performance, drawing from reputable sources to offer a comprehensive overview as of May 6, 2025.

Critical Reception

Thunderbolts has been met with generally positive critical acclaim, earning an 88% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes based on 280 reviews (Rotten Tomatoes). Critics have lauded its character-driven narrative, emotional depth, and departure from the MCU’s recent multiverse-heavy formula, positioning it as a refreshing addition to the franchise. The film’s focus on mental health, combined with its indie-inspired tone—drawing from influences like Reservoir Dogs and Oldboy—has been a particular point of praise. However, some reviewers note a weaker first act or tonal inconsistencies, suggesting it doesn’t fully recapture the cultural impact of earlier MCU hits like The Avengers or Guardians of the Galaxy.

Key Critical Perspectives

• Roger Ebert praised the film as an “odd duck of a superhero flick” that could reinvigorate the MCU after recent misfires like The Marvels and Captain America: Brave New World. The review highlighted its emphasis on “humanity in heroism,” suggesting it evokes the emotional core of early MCU films (Roger Ebert Review).
• BBC Culture called it “the greatest Marvel offering in years,” describing it as “scrappy, scruffy-looking, down-to-earth fun” with Florence Pugh’s “charismatic” performance at its core. The review noted its distinct identity and skillful exploration of guilt and trauma (BBC Culture).
• NPR labeled it a “refreshing hit after Marvel misfires,” commending its “decently effective blend of misfit mercenaries and pop psychology.” The review appreciated its character focus but acknowledged minor flaws in pacing (NPR Review).
• IGN awarded it a 7/10, calling it “the most solid the MCU has felt in a while.” The review praised its balance of dark and light tones, particularly its exploration of characters’ worst memories, though it noted that the comedic elements sometimes clashed with the darker themes (IGN Review).
• Plugged In offered a mixed perspective, acknowledging typical superhero film issues but emphasizing its “heart and hope” (Plugged In).
• A dissenting voice on Metacritic criticized the film for lacking likable characters and subpar visual effects, comparing it unfavorably to a “Marvel PG-13 version of Suicide Squad.” This view, however, is in the minority (Metacritic).

Critical Consensus

The consensus among critics is that Thunderbolts succeeds as a character-driven, emotionally resonant film that addresses the MCU’s recent struggles. Florence Pugh’s performance as Yelena Belova and Lewis Pullman’s complex portrayal of Bob Reynolds/Sentry/The Void have been singled out for praise, with many noting the film’s mature handling of mental health themes. While not without flaws, such as a rushed final battle or occasional tonal shifts, the film is seen as a step forward for the MCU, potentially setting the stage for a revitalized Phase Six with The Fantastic Four: First Steps.

Audience Response

Audience reception for Thunderbolts has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting its appeal to both MCU fans and general viewers. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film boasts a 94% Popcornmeter score from over 10,000 verified ratings, indicating strong fan approval (Rotten Tomatoes). On IMDb, it holds a 7.7/10 rating, further underscoring its popularity (IMDb). Fans have particularly praised the film’s humor, emotional depth, and relatable themes of redemption and isolation, with many highlighting Pugh’s performance and the chemistry among the ensemble cast.

Audience Feedback Highlights

• Emotional Resonance: Viewers have connected with the film’s exploration of trauma and self-worth, particularly through Yelena’s arc, which builds on her Black Widow backstory.
• Humor and Heart: Fans appreciate the balance of witty banter, especially between Yelena and Red Guardian, and the film’s hopeful tone, as noted in audience reviews on Screen Rant (Screen Rant).
• Character Development: The antihero team’s underdog status and personal growth have resonated, with comments like “the best movie of the year” from fans on Screen Rant, citing its “great story” and “great effects.”

Box Office Performance

The film’s commercial success reinforces its audience appeal. Thunderbolts grossed $162 million worldwide in its opening weekend, including $76 million domestically, making it a strong performer for a non-Avengers MCU title (Deadline). Its opening day alone earned $31.5 million (Variety). The film’s box office success is attributed to positive word-of-mouth, a robust marketing campaign (including a Super Bowl spot and a $75 million promotional partnership with brands like Tide and Harley Davidson), and its positioning as a fresh MCU entry.

Notable Reviews

Several reviews stand out for their depth and influence, shaping the narrative around Thunderbolts’ reception:

Source	Quote	Key Insight
Roger Ebert	“Some of the best movies in the history of the MCU have thrived off bouncing interesting characters and performances off each other… Thunderbolts might bring fans back to this universe who felt burned after misfires like The Marvels and Brave New World.”	Emphasizes the film’s potential to revitalize the MCU through character interplay and emotional grounding.
BBC Culture	“The latest in the superhero franchise ‘is scrappy, scruffy-looking, down-to-earth fun,’ with a ‘charismatic’ Florence Pugh at its centre.”	Highlights Pugh’s performance and the film’s unique, grounded tone.
NPR	“Marvel’s latest release is a decently effective blend of misfit mercenaries and pop psychology.”	Praises the film’s character focus and psychological depth, despite minor flaws.
IGN	“Thunderbolts has, like its sort-of-not-really antagonist, both a dark half and a light half. But only one of them is actually pretty great (hint: it’s the one that involves plumbing the depths of the characters’ worst memories).”	Notes the film’s strength in its darker, character-driven moments.
Screen Rant	“One of best MCU movie… The story tackled the isolation many of us feel; the lack of self-worth, but with levity and hope.”	Reflects fan sentiment on the film’s relatable themes and strong execution.

These reviews collectively underscore Thunderbolts’ strengths in performance, thematic depth, and its role as a corrective to recent MCU struggles, while acknowledging areas for improvement, such as pacing or tonal balance.

Awards and Nominations

As of May 6, 2025, Thunderbolts has not received any major awards or nominations, which is typical for a film released just four days ago. Major award ceremonies, such as the Oscars, are scheduled for early 2026, and nominations for 2025 films are not yet announced. However, IMDb lists one unspecified nomination for the film, though details are unavailable (IMDb Awards). Given the film’s critical acclaim, particularly for Pugh’s performance and its mental health themes, it is likely to be considered for awards in categories like acting, screenplay, or technical achievements (e.g., visual effects) in the coming months. BBC Culture noted that Pugh’s performance “would win her awards if it weren’t in a superhero film,” suggesting potential for recognition in less genre-biased circles.

Potential Award Prospects

• Acting: Florence Pugh’s performance has been universally praised, making her a potential contender for Best Actress or Supporting Actress at awards like the Golden Globes or Critics’ Choice Awards.
• Screenplay: The script by Eric Pearson and Joanna Calo, praised for its sharp dialogue and emotional depth, could be considered for adapted screenplay categories.
• Technical Categories: The film’s visual effects, noted as “less rushed” than previous MCU entries, and Son Lux’s standout score may attract nominations in technical categories.

Commercial and Cultural Impact

Thunderbolts has made a significant mark commercially and culturally. Its $162 million worldwide opening weekend positions it as the eighth-highest-grossing film of 2025 to date, with strong domestic and international performance (Wikipedia). The film’s marketing, including a high-profile San Diego Comic-Con trailer reveal, a Super Bowl spot, and a unique A24-style trailer on Letterboxd, contributed to its buzz (Deadline). The rebranding of the Thunderbolts team as the “New Avengers” in the film’s ending and subsequent marketing has sparked excitement for the MCU’s future, particularly with Avengers: Doomsday on the horizon (Variety).

Culturally, Thunderbolts has been praised for addressing contemporary issues like mental health and isolation, resonating with audiences in a post-Avengers: Endgame world. Its focus on a team of underdogs has drawn comparisons to Guardians of the Galaxy, though some critics, like those on IMDb, argue it feels “a bit too tired” to achieve the same phenomenon status (IMDb).

Conclusion

Thunderbolts (2025) has emerged as a critical and commercial success, revitalizing the MCU with its character-driven storytelling, emotional depth, and strong performances, particularly from Florence Pugh and Lewis Pullman. Its 88% Tomatometer and 94% audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes, alongside a 7.7 IMDb rating, reflect widespread approval. Notable reviews from Roger Ebert, BBC Culture, and NPR highlight its unique tone and thematic richness, though minor criticisms include pacing and tonal balance. While no major awards have been announced due to its recent release, the film’s acclaim suggests potential for recognition in 2026. With a $162 million global opening and a rebranding as The New Avengers, Thunderbolts sets a promising stage for the MCU’s future.