Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe ended with a bang with Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The film not only turned out to be a commercial success for the production giant, but it also made fans believe that they were now going to see exciting new stories and new heroes in the upcoming batch of films. But everything came crashing down when films like Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania and The Marvels went on to garner negative reviews from the critics as well as audiences. Thankfully, films like Guardians of the Galaxy, and Deadpool & Wolverine made things better for Marvel. However, the franchise was still looking for that movie that would connect with the fans on a more emotional level. In comes Thunderbolts*, a movie about a group of anti-heroes that reminded viewers why they fell in love with the MCU in the first place.
The movie 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 a mysterious location to destroy the entire facility. However, none of them knew that they were sent there by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (played by Julia Louis-Dreyfus), and once they arrive there, they are pitted against each other in a deadly confrontation. Moments later, they come across a mysterious figure named Bob (played by Lewis Pullman), whose oddly calm demeanor and out-of-place appearance immediately set him apart from the chaos around them. As the story unravels, the group realizes that something sinister was being held behind the walls of this facility, and they might have to come together to stop Valentina from doing something diabolical. What happens next is a gripping blend of betrayal, survival, and redemption, as the reluctant heroes are forced to confront not only a deadly conspiracy but also the ghosts of their own pasts.
A still from ‘Thunderbolts*’ (Image Courtesy: Marvel)
A Superhero Film That Dares to Go Deeper
At its core, Thunderbolts* is about broken people trying to find wholeness. Yes, it has plenty of superhero spectacle, but what sets it apart is the way it dares to ask: what happens when those who are seen as weapons start wanting something more—something human? After a very long time, Marvel creates a story that gives each of its characters moments to breathe. Walker continues to wrestle with his legacy, seeking redemption while clashing with authority. But that’s not it, he is also facing a lot of problems on a more personal level. Ghost is tormented, quiet, and haunted—literally and metaphorically—and her internal conflict is deeply compelling. Meanwhile, Yelena is once again not able to move forward with her life while going through some of the hardest missions. But the thing that this movie does so well is that the film’s narrative doesn’t rush through these stories. Instead, it allows them to unfold organically
Another aspect that makes Thunderbolts* such a riveting watch is its brave engagement with mental health. Through its characters, especially Yelena and Bob, the film explores PTSD, identity fragmentation, and the dangerous effects of being used as a tool instead of being treated as a person. Although the film has many moments that make you resonate with the characters, it is Yelena’s story arc that hits the hardest, showing how even the strongest people carry deep pain—and how healing begins when you’re finally seen and heard. This theme resonates beyond the screen. In a cinematic universe known for battles and bombast, the movie dares to say that the real victory is surviving your own mind, and that healing can come from solidarity, not just strength.
Florence Pugh shines, but Harbour is the scene-stealer
Florence Pugh and David Harbour in a still from ‘Thunderbolts*’ (Image Courtesy: Marvel)
This is Florence Pugh‘s film, and she is nothing short of exceptional as Yelena Belova. Her performance balances sardonic wit with deep vulnerability, and Pugh delivers both in the action sequences and the quieter, emotionally charged moments. She elevates every scene she’s in. This is her movie, and she owns it with a magnetic, lived-in performance. David Harbour, as Alexei/The Red Guardian, steals nearly every scene he appears in. His protective instincts toward Yelena, his unfiltered humor, and his surprising emotional insights provide the film with its heart.
The film’s supporting cast – Sebastian Stan, Wyatt Russell, Hannah John-Kamen, Lewis Pullman, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Geraldine Viswanathan – is equally brilliant, and elevate the viewing experience.
Is Thunderbolts* worth watching?
The direction is tight and deliberate, balancing kinetic action with intimate character moments. The cinematography, particularly during the shadow engulfment scenes, is eerie and surreal. Overall, Thunderbolts* is a thrilling, emotionally rich, and thematically daring entry in the MCU that blends superhero spectacle with a grounded exploration of trauma and healing. It reminds us that even in a world of powers and portals, sometimes the greatest strength is simply choosing to live, to feel, and to fight another day—not for glory, but for each other.
It is one of the most important Marvel films in recent years. It not only keeps you intrigued, but also makes you feel seen with the issues related to mental health. Splendid!
