Marvel Studios’ eagerly awaited anti-hero ensemble film, Thunderbolts, premiered in the United States on May 2, 2025, following its international release on April 30 and a special screening at Cineworld Leicester Square on April 22.
With a duration of 126 minutes and a production budget of $180 million, the film represents a bold and realistic addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) Phase 5.
Directed by Jake Schreier and produced by Kevin Feige, Thunderbolts unites a cast of morally complex characters who navigate the ambiguous line between heroism and personal redemption.
Production and Creative Team
This film is directed by Jake Schreier, recognized for his distinctive storytelling style, with the screenplay written by Eric Pearson and Joanna Calo, alongside a story developed by Pearson.
The cinematography is executed by Andrew Droz Palermo, and the editing is managed by Angela Catanzaro and Harry Yoon.
The emotional depth of the film’s narrative is enhanced by the musical score composed by the experimental band Son Lux.
Produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.
Thunderbolts is inspired by the Marvel Comics team of the same name, originally created as reformed villains given another chance.
The Core Cast
The cast comprises a dynamic assortment of characters, many of whom have already appeared in earlier MCU titles:
Florence Pugh takes on the role of Yelena Belova.
Sebastian Stan portrays Bucky Barnes / Winter Soldier.
David Harbour plays Red Guardian.
Wyatt Russell features as U.S. Agent (John Walker).
Olga Kurylenko is cast as Taskmaster.
Hannah John-Kamen portrays Ghost.
Lewis Pullman steps into the role of Sentry (succeeding Steven Yeun).
Geraldine Viswanathan plays an undisclosed character (taking over from Ayo Edebiri).
Julia Louis-Dreyfus returns as Valentina Allegra de Fontaine.
Every actor delivers a nuanced performance, as most characters grapple with morally complex histories and a profound yearning for redemption or purpose.
Plot Overview
Thunderbolts centers around CIA director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine as she recruits a secret team of super-powered individuals with troubled pasts.
In contrast to the polished and idealistic Avengers, this team comprises a chaotic blend of individuals motivated by conflicting desires.
The film delves into how these characters—Yelena, Bucky, Ghost, U.S. Agent, Red Guardian, Taskmaster, and the newly introduced Sentry—must learn to trust each other amid pressure.
Their mission, which involves a high-stakes international threat, compels them to confront past traumas, concealed agendas, and the shadowy realm of intelligence and manipulation that Valentina embodies.
Tone and Direction
Jake Schreier’s direction adopts a darker, more realistic tone, echoing the vibe of Captain America: The Winter Soldier.
In contrast to recent Marvel films that delve into cosmic and multiversal chaos, Thunderbolts presents a more personal narrative with significant stakes.
The film weaves together humor, action, and emotional depth, providing a balanced taste of the MCU.
However, it deviates from the high-energy spectacle typically associated with Avengers-level films, opting instead to concentrate on intricate interpersonal dynamics, stories of redemption, and the weight of power.
Review Summary: A Return to Marvel’s Roots
Thunderbolts nearly transports audiences back to Marvel’s prime.
It captures the emotional depth and character richness reminiscent of early MCU installments, particularly Civil War and The Winter Soldier.
Florence Pugh excels as Yelena Belova, portraying her with a striking blend of vulnerability, wit, and resilience.
Her emotional journey serves as the heart of the film.
Sebastian Stan’s Winter Soldier is portrayed with subtlety and control, furthering his path of redemption.
Lewis Pullman’s Sentry introduces a complex, tragic figure, caught between great power and inner turmoil.
The chemistry among the characters injects vitality into the story.
Special mentions go to the interactions between Red Guardian and Yelena, as well as the nuanced tensions between Bucky and U.S. Agent.
However, the review points out that despite the impressive performances and grounded storytelling, the film ultimately falls short of greatness.
It encounters pacing issues in its second act and relies on familiar tropes.
While attempting to balance a large cast, some characters (like Ghost and Taskmaster) feel underdeveloped, leaving their arcs feeling unfinished.
Visuals and Music
The cinematography by Andrew Droz Palermo presents a gritty visual style, highlighting shadows and practical effects instead of relying heavily on CGI.
The realistic fight choreography and urban environments capture the essence of early MCU spy thrillers.
Son Lux’s score stands out, oscillating between haunting themes and high-energy rhythms, enhancing the emotional weight of key scenes.
Strengths
Powerful performances from Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, and Lewis Pullman
A gritty, realistic tone that recalls early Marvel films
Tightly woven, character-driven narrative
Emotional complexity and psychological depth
Striking soundtrack and visual style
Weaknesses
Key characters like Ghost and Taskmaster lack sufficient screen time
Pacing issues plague the middle act
A familiar team-up formula that doesn’t push narrative boundaries
Absence of a compelling main antagonist
Final Verdict
Thunderbolts emerges as a contemplative, character-focused film within the Marvel Cinematic Universe that ventures into the complexities of morality and redemption.
While it may not ascend to the iconic status of Marvel’s golden era, it offers a refreshing shift from multiversal chaos by concentrating on flawed characters trying to make the right choices for once in their lives.
The film might not satisfy all fans—particularly those expecting grand action sequences or multiverse storylines—but for those who value the emotional stakes and tension of earlier MCU films, Thunderbolts stands as a commendable addition.
With strong performances, mature themes, and a gritty atmosphere, it nearly rekindles the Marvel magic of the past.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Raid 2 (2025) has also been released recently—do take a look at its “review”.
do check out Florence Pugh’s (playing Yelena Belova) and Sebastian Stan’s (playing Bucky Barnes) Instagram.
