THUNDERBOLTS* – Review by Susan Kamyab

Since the overhaul of Marvel films that have been released since Endgame, it’s been difficult to get excited for any of the upcoming sequel or spinoffs. However, the 36th installment to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Thunderbolts* offers something more original and more cathartic than the traditional superhero formula.

This film follows the misfit anti-heroes we have previously been introduced, including Yelena, Ava Starr, and if you watched the Disney Plus series, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, you’ll remember John Walker. The three of them along with a few surprise faces, find themselves caught in a death trap organized by Valentina de Fontaine. After originally trying to kill each other, the unlikely team switch gears and work together to save themselves and continue a dangerous mission that will force them to confront the darkest corners of their past. The film stars Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Wyatt Russell. Though all the characters bring value to the movie, Pugh is the heart to this story, stealing every scene with her wit and subtly captivating sensitivity.

You are still in for some laughs, especially from Pugh’s on-screen dad, David Harbour, who returns as The Red Guardian. But, while there are humorous moments, the film is surprisingly deep and as they would refer to it, “emo”. That may be off-off putting for some, as you are in for a therapy session you didn’t ask for, but in the long run you might find it rewarding. I appreciate “Thunderbolts*” breaking the mold of the typical Marvel blueprint and digging into the traumatic past that has caused each one of these characters to isolate themselves and become the unconventional team they are now. However, I think we still could dig a little more into certain characters, but based on the end credit tease, we will likely learn more about the New Avengers in future films.

Director Jake Schreier paints a dark set that appropriately matches the tone, while including enough action and quality special effects to satisfy audiences visually. At times the plot is a little disjointed but ultimately comes together in the end. While this is not on par with previous Marvel gems, there’s still room to get there. Thankfully, Thunderbolts* succeeds in doing what Suicide Squad couldn’t, making moviegoers care about a group of powerful outsiders, and create an intriguing backstory that will leave you curious to know more.