The recent drought of quality Marvel films and series has been evident, until now. On May 2, “Thunderbolts*” was released in theaters, making a large wave in the Marvel fan community. This thrilling, action-packed, and heart-wrenching film has served justice to set up an exciting next chapter of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Leading the pack is Florence Pugh as Yelana, a former Black Widow. Her team is formed completely by accident and consists of previous side characters and so-called misfits. Some featured characters include John Walker (U.S. Agent), Bucky Barnes, Ghost, and Taskmaster.
On paper, this group of unconventional heroes doesn’t seem promising, but that’s what makes the movie so special. From enemies, to sharing a common enemy, is what forms the bond of friendship.
A new villain is added to the MCU as well. Sentry is made to become the new face of government protection, yet his battle with mental health accidentally forms his copart, The Void. Both characters share the abilities of flight, super strength, and telepathy, yet The Void is the true villain of the story. It’s hard to compete with someone who points and turns all of New York City into a darkness of depression.
This film was impressive for many reasons — first being the character buildup of Sentry. Elias Acevedo ‘27 thought the villain was “very unique” in regards to the split personalities, highlight on mental health, and the multiple powers Sentry possesses. Acevedo thought “Thunderbolts*” was “an amazing movie,” and one that has definitely enhanced the recent MCU timeline.
“It brought subsistence with action,” Ian Robinson ‘27 tells Concordiensis staff.
There was a perfect balance of background stories, and character development, touching upon difficult topics, with the action-packed fighting scenes. There were many notable action scenes scattered throughout the film, all done extremely well, too. Sometimes CGI use in Marvel can be questionable in quality, but there’s no doubt of quality here: the combination of characters, plotline, cracks of humor, and hints into the next chapter for Marvel, curated a compelling and well-done film.
Spoiler alert – even though officially posted on Marvel – the film is renamed “The New Avengers.” If this doesn’t get Marvel fans ecstatic, I don’t know what will! This movie is a must-watch to understand the future of the newly established group of misfits, now known as The New Avengers.
“Thunderbolts*” was officially the last movie of Phase 5 in the MCU. Marvel fans, or Pedro Pascal fans, get ready for the beginning of Phase 6 in July with the release of “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.”
