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.
#Thunderbolts is a real breath of fresh air for the MCU. Absolutely LOVED the team dynamic! It’s also rich with emotions tackling pretty serious self worth issues. Yelena carries the movie. Best part it’s 95% stand alone with 5% setup. But that 5% tho👀 Really felt like old MCU. pic.twitter.com/0O987OkxRI
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.”
THUNDERBOLTS: it was AMAZING, SHOCKING, and AWESOME in every way. Florence Pugh and Lewis Pullman are absolutely STELLAR in this film and they're the highlights of the movie. Also, that asterisk reveal will SURPRISE you and make sure to stick for BOTH POST CREDITS. #Thunderboltspic.twitter.com/qJpZPjyzHY
“Easily one of the best MCU movies in a long time,” added critic Emily Murray. “Florence Pugh is superb. A tear was shed.”
#Thunderbolts is one of Marvel’s most enjoyable films in a while. It feels different than most of the studio’s projects. Its bold, funny, filled with great action and an unexpected emotional punch.
Florence Pugh is the star that shines the brightest. There’s a lot to love here.… pic.twitter.com/8wjgx9caIS
— The Hollywood Handle (@HollywoodHandle) April 22, 2025
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.”
Well #Thunderbolts is easily one of the best MCU movies in a long time (and maybe one of my new personal faves). Has so much spark, charisma, and tells a genuinely emotional story you connect with. A tear was shed. Florence Pugh in particular superb, just walks away with it pic.twitter.com/U7AzBgGZMl
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.
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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.
