'Thunderbolts*' Review: That Mysterious Asterisk Masks the Real Reason to Watch These Six Marvel Rejects

For Marvel fans, Thunderbolts* may well be remembered as the film that got the hobbling MCU franchise back on track although thats mostly just wishful thinking from the suckers whove been faithfully keeping up with every sequel, spinoff, and TV series Marvel pumps into the oversaturated marketplace. They, like the super-successful comics studio, keep hoping to re-create the thrill of the Avengers movies. But those viewing hours are gone forever, and so too is the feeling that keeping up with Marvel was somehow vital to the larger cultural conversation. But dont let that discourage you. Beneath the surface of superhero fatigue lies a compelling narrative about redemption, mental health, and the surprising strength found in embracing your flaws. As Variety notes in their review, this isn't just another superhero team-up; it's a character study wrapped in explosions and quippy dialogue.

Thunderbolts* arrives at a crucial juncture for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Following the divisive reception of recent phases, the pressure is on to deliver something fresh and engaging. This film attempts to do just that by shifting the focus away from the A-list heroes and towards a group of D-list antiheroes, led by the formidable Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova, the new Black Widow. The film throws us into a world where villains are the only heroes we've got, but it handles it with grace and a surprising amount of self-awareness.

A Team of Misfits, Led by a Widow

The premise is simple: Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) assembles a team of individuals with questionable pasts and even more questionable skillsets to undertake missions that the Avengers are either too busy or too morally upright to handle. This Suicide Squad-esque setup allows for a narrative that is both action-packed and surprisingly introspective.

Beyond Yelena, the team consists of a motley crew of characters familiar to dedicated Marvel fans: Red Guardian (David Harbour), the delusional Soviet super-soldier; US Agent (Wyatt Russell), the unstable replacement for Captain America; Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko), the silent but deadly mimic; Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), the phasing villain seeking redemption; and Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan), the brainwashed assassin haunted by his past.

And that, surprisingly, is where the film shines. Each character is given ample screen time to explore their personal demons and motivations. We see Yelena grappling with the legacy of her sister Natasha, Red Guardian yearning for a connection with his adopted daughters, US Agent struggling with the burden of expectations, Taskmaster confronting her past trauma, Ghost seeking a cure for her condition, and Winter Soldier desperately searching for inner peace.

Comedy and Mental Health: A Delicate Balance

Thunderbolts* masterfully balances self-deprecating comedy with genuine moments of emotional depth. The humor arises from the inherent absurdity of the situation and the characters' clashing personalities. The witty banter between Yelena and Red Guardian is a constant source of amusement, while US Agent's attempts to emulate Captain America provide plenty of cringe-worthy moments.

However, the film doesn't shy away from addressing serious themes of mental health and trauma. Each character is haunted by their past, and their struggles with PTSD, anxiety, and identity are portrayed with sensitivity and nuance. The film explores the idea that even super-powered individuals are vulnerable and in need of support. This exploration adds a layer of complexity and relatability to the characters, making them more than just cardboard cutouts.

The film delves deep into the psychological baggage each member carries, and how that baggage affects their decisions, and their interactions with each other. The writers clearly took the time to consider the long-term effects of the events that shaped these characters, making the *Thunderbolts* feel like real, broken people just trying to navigate a world that doesn't quite know what to do with them. The film is less about saving the world, and more about saving themselves.

Deep Cuts and Obscure Characters: A Love Letter to Marvel Fans

One of the most striking aspects of Thunderbolts* is its reliance on deep knowledge of obscure characters and storylines from the Marvel comics universe. While this may alienate casual viewers, it will undoubtedly delight hardcore fans who have been clamoring for more representation of lesser-known characters.

The film draws heavily from the Thunderbolts comic book series, which was created by Kurt Busiek and Mark Bagley in 1997. In the comics, the Thunderbolts were initially presented as a new team of superheroes who emerged after the Avengers were seemingly killed. However, it was later revealed that they were actually villains in disguise, led by Baron Zemo.

While the film deviates from this origin story, it still incorporates many of the core themes and elements of the comics, such as the idea of villains seeking redemption and the blurring of the lines between good and evil. The inclusion of characters like Ghost and Taskmaster, who have relatively minor roles in the MCU, demonstrates a commitment to expanding the universe and exploring its lesser-known corners.

The film also makes several subtle references to other Marvel comics and storylines, which will undoubtedly reward attentive viewers. These Easter eggs and nods to the source material add a layer of depth and complexity to the film, making it a truly rewarding experience for dedicated Marvel fans. If you didnt know who Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine was before, you do now.

Sebastian Stan: The Linchpin

While Florence Pugh rightfully gets top billing, Sebastian Stan's performance as the Winter Soldier is arguably the heart of the film. Stan has consistently delivered compelling performances as the tortured Bucky Barnes, and Thunderbolts* provides him with the opportunity to further explore the character's inner turmoil.

Bucky's journey from brainwashed assassin to conflicted hero has been one of the most compelling arcs in the MCU. In Thunderbolts*, we see him grappling with the weight of his past actions and desperately seeking a way to atone for his sins. He serves as a moral compass for the team, often questioning their methods and urging them to strive for something better. In that sense, he becomes the film's primary protagonist.

Stan imbues Bucky with a quiet intensity and vulnerability that makes him incredibly relatable. His interactions with the other members of the team are particularly poignant, as he attempts to guide them on their own paths to redemption. The film also hints at a possible romantic connection between Bucky and Yelena, which could provide a compelling subplot for future installments.

His character arc underscores the film's central theme: that even the most damaged individuals are capable of change and redemption. His stoic demeanor and simmering pain add an extra layer of depth, making him the emotional anchor of the group. Its a quiet, but powerful performance. And one that holds this team together.

The Asterisk: What Does It Mean?

The mysterious asterisk in the film's title has been a source of much speculation among Marvel fans. Some have theorized that it represents a hidden secret or a twist ending, while others believe that it is simply a stylistic choice.

The truth is likely somewhere in between. The asterisk could be a reference to the fact that this is not your typical superhero team. The Thunderbolts are a group of misfits and outcasts, and their methods are often unconventional and morally ambiguous. The asterisk could be a way of signaling to viewers that this is not a straightforward superhero story.

It could also be a nod to the fact that the film is part of a larger, interconnected universe. The MCU is known for its intricate storylines and interconnected characters, and the asterisk could be a way of hinting at future developments and connections to other films and TV shows. Or perhaps the asterisk simply serves as a conversation starter, a way to generate buzz and intrigue around the film.

Whatever the reason, the asterisk adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the film, inviting viewers to delve deeper into the world of the Thunderbolts and uncover its secrets.

A Step in the Right Direction for the MCU?

Thunderbolts* is not without its flaws. The pacing can be uneven at times, and the plot occasionally feels convoluted. However, the film's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. The engaging characters, the skillful blend of comedy and drama, and the deep knowledge of Marvel lore make it a worthwhile addition to the MCU.

The film represents a significant departure from the typical superhero formula, and it suggests that Marvel is willing to take risks and experiment with new ideas. Whether it will be enough to revitalize the MCU remains to be seen, but it is certainly a step in the right direction. The movies success will determine how Marvel handles its other characters that may not exactly be A-listers, or whose backstories have been deemed too complicated for general audiences.

Thunderbolts* has generated mixed reactions among critics. While some have praised its originality and character development, others have criticized its convoluted plot and uneven pacing. The current Rotten Tomatoes score is a testament to this divide, reflecting the polarized opinions of viewers and critics alike. Ultimately, its up to individual viewers to decide whether the film resonates with them.

Worth the Watch?

Ultimately, Thunderbolts* is a film that rewards both casual viewers and dedicated Marvel fans. It offers a fresh and engaging take on the superhero genre, while also delving into complex themes of mental health, redemption, and the blurred lines between good and evil.

If you're looking for a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, then Thunderbolts* is definitely worth a watch. Just be prepared for a few deep cuts and obscure references along the way. And dont get too caught up in the asterisk; the real magic lies in the characters and their journey.

The film's self-awareness and willingness to poke fun at the superhero genre are refreshing, and the performances of the cast are uniformly excellent. Despite the MCU's recent stumbles, Thunderbolts* is a reminder that there is still plenty of potential for compelling storytelling within the Marvel universe.

Fans who enjoyed the more character-driven aspects of films like "Guardians of the Galaxy" and "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" will likely find much to appreciate in "Thunderbolts*." The film's focus on the personal struggles of its characters, coupled with its action-packed set pieces, creates a unique and engaging cinematic experience. And for those whove been suffering from superhero fatigue, this film might just be the cure. After all, who doesnt love a good underdog story?