REVIEW #430 Thunderbolts* (2025)

Thunderbolts*

Synopsis 

An unlikely group of antiheroes team up to escape a deadly trap, but freedom soon forces them to face the darkest moments of their past.

My Review

Thunderbolts and its group of misfit antiheroes may have just shown the world just how good Marvel can be when they combine their trademark humour with more mature themes, captivating audiences that have been drifting since Avengers Endgame. Rather than the careless cinematography that often lacks substance in recent flicks, there is an abundance of beautifully orchestrated shots that relied on the talents of the cinematographer rather than CGI artists. That being said, the latter was pretty impressive too! The films depiction of mental health was brilliant and the innovative way in which Director Jake Schreier incorporated flashbacks into the story, really helped to humanise the characters involved. Florence Pugh and Lewis Pullman in particular, really drove home those themes with their performances, showing real chemistry when depicting relatable trauma between individuals. I must also mention David Harbour, he really is the glue that was needed for this team, his infectious energy as The Red Guardian can seem a little silly at times but the disguised emotion behind that humour makes him such a lovable character. All in all, I think it’s a super positive sign of the direction Marvel are heading in with their new crop of films, the quality over quantity approach really seems to be paying dividends and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the franchise.

My Rating: 8.2 out of 10

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Film Review Club