Critics call Marvel’s latest anti-hero saga ‘Thunderbolts’ a bold, emotional departure from formula; Florence Pugh shines as Yelena in this gritty ensemble film
Los Angeles, April 23: Marvel Studios’ much-anticipated “Thunderbolts” has been screened for members of the press, and early reactions are hailing it as one of the most emotionally resonant and daring entries in the MCU to date. Critics are especially praising Florence Pugh, who leads the misfit ensemble as Yelena Belova, marking her first solo lead in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
A Raw and Gritty Marvel Film
Described as “a bold dive into trauma, healing, and redemption,” Thunderbolts focuses on a group of anti-heroes who must work together to take down a greater threat. The cast includes Florence Pugh, Lewis Pullman, Wyatt Russell, Hannah John-Kamen, Sebastian Stan, David Harbour, and Olga Kurylenko. Directed by Jake Schreier, the script is co-written by Eric Pearson and Joanna Calo.
“It’s some of Marvel’s darkest material to date,” said Matt Neglia (Next Best Picture), calling the film Florence Pugh’s show entirely. “She carries much of the dramatic weight of the movie on her back.”
“Easily one of the best MCU movies in a long time,” added critic Emily Murray. “Florence Pugh is superb. A tear was shed.”
Character-Driven with Practical Action
Critics say Thunderbolts sheds the usual MCU tone in favor of grittier storytelling, grounded character work, and practical action sequences. The chemistry among the characters — including Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) and Red Guardian (David Harbour) — is also receiving praise.
“Feels like the old Marvel,” said critic Brandon Norwood. “Wish we’d gotten this sooner.”
A Distinct Vision from Director Jake Schreier
Director Jake Schreier and Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige had promised that Thunderbolts would veer from traditional superhero formulas. Back in March, Schreier teased the film at Comic-Con 2024 as a Marvel movie inspired by A24-style storytelling, citing a desire to bring more layered tones and grounded emotion to the franchise.
“If you can imagine a Marvel movie from people who make that kind of work… that’s what we hope we’ve made,” Schreier said.
What’s Next for Marvel?
After the lukewarm reception of “Captain America: Brave New World”, Thunderbolts is being closely watched as a critical reset. If it connects with fans, it could reignite interest ahead of Marvel’s upcoming slate, which includes:
- “Fantastic Four: First Steps” (July 2025)
- “Avengers: Doomsday” (May 1, 2026)
- “Avengers: Secret Wars” (May 7, 2027)
Thunderbolts hits theaters May 2, with high hopes for both critical acclaim and box office redemption for the MCU.