Living With B

‘Thunderbolts*’ directed by Jake Schreier, is about a team of unconventional antiheroes—Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, Ghost, Taskmaster, and John Walker—who embark on a dangerous mission that forces them to confront the darkest corners of their pasts.

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My Thoughts

This movie is taking Marvel in the direction I think they need to go. It’s fun, action-filled, emotional, and humorous, while still acknowledging the damage these characters have done. The dynamic among the group is both dysfunctional and entertaining, like siblings constantly at each other’s throats. It made me feel like I was watching the older Avengers movies again.

Yelena Belova stands out in particular. She remembers all the bad things she’s done and feels remorseful. She drinks herself to sleep and reflects on the pain she’s caused others. Although she’s not a good person, you can tell she wants to be. She’s funny and lovable—especially in the scene where the team (Ghost, Taskmaster, and John Walker) finds Bob in what should’ve been their coffin.

I didn’t expect Marvel to touch on mental illness, but they did—not only with Yelena and her depression and guilt but also with Bob and a bit of John Walker, although Walker’s seems more about his inner turmoil.

Speaking of Bob—I keep mentioning him because he’s here to stay! I liked Bob. He was funny and felt relatable for someone who also struggles with their mental health. I appreciated that the movie took time to explore his backstory, making him feel like more than just a randomly thrown-in new character. It helped him fit naturally into the team dynamic.

Red Guardian (Alexei Shostakov) was the star of the show for me! He’s insanely funny and just trying to be a good father in his way. I cried during his conversation with Yelena, when he told her how he sees her versus how she sees herself. Tears were flowing!

Bucky Barnes—I love him so much! It was great to see him using his gifts for good. Watching him in Congress, trying to do what’s right for the people, was just cool.

Now, I know I’ve been talking a lot of good, but this isn’t a 5-star movie. Here’s why:

First, it’s a good movie, but not a great one. Black Panther and Endgame are still Marvel’s best, and nothing here tops that.

Second, the ending fell flat for me. It didn’t feel satisfying like Endgame (R.I.P. Tony Stark) or Far From Home. I get that Thunderbolts* is setting up future movies, and while that makes sense, it didn’t make me like the ending. That said, it did help me understand all the “New Avengers” talk that’s been going around.

Do I Recommend Thunderbolts*?

Yeah! It’s a good Marvel movie. I was pleased overall and found it enjoyable. If you’re looking for a fun, action-packed movie with a few antiheroes—and you want to keep up with the new era of Marvel—this is the one.

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Watch Thunderbolts* in your local theatre!