Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts (2025) marks a significant addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), introducing a team of antiheroes navigating complex personal and collective challenges.
Release Date & Premiere
Thunderbolts premiered on April 22, 2025, at Cineworld Leicester Square in London and was released in the United States on May 2, 2025. It serves as the final installment of Phase Five of the MCU.
Movie’s Summary
Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts (2025) marks a bold and introspective addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), serving as the climactic finale of Phase Five. Directed by Jake Schreier, the film assembles a team of antiheroes—including Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), and John Walker (Wyatt Russell)—who are coerced into a perilous mission orchestrated by the enigmatic Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus).
The narrative delves deep into themes of mental health and redemption, particularly through the character of Bob Reynolds, also known as Sentry (Lewis Pullman). Bob’s internal struggle manifests as the Void, a formidable force that engulfs New York City in darkness. The team’s journey to confront and support Bob underscores the film’s emphasis on empathy and collective healing.
Critics have lauded Thunderbolts for its character-driven storytelling and emotional depth. The film boasts an 88% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with particular praise directed at Pugh’s compelling portrayal of Yelena. The movie’s conclusion reveals the Thunderbolts’ rebranding as the “New Avengers,” setting the stage for their involvement in future MCU events, including the anticipated Avengers: Doomsday (2026).
For fans and collectors, Thunderbolts has inspired a range of merchandise, from action figures to exclusive posters. Notable items include the Marvel Thunderbolts 2025 Original Version C Ds 2 Sided 27×40 and the 6″ Custom Action Figure Ghost Thunderbolts Marvel Legends Scale, both capturing the film’s unique aesthetic.
Plot Overview
In Thunderbolts, a group of antiheroes is ensnared in a deadly trap orchestrated by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. Forced to collaborate on a perilous mission, they confront the darkest corners of their pasts. The narrative delves into themes of redemption, mental health, and the power of collective strength.
Production Details
-
Director: Jake Schreier
-
Screenwriters: Eric Pearson and Joanna Calo
-
Producers: Kevin Feige
-
Music: Son Lux
-
Cinematography: Andrew Droz Palermo
-
Editing: Angela Catanzaro and Harry Yoon
-
Runtime: 126 minutes
-
Budget: $180 million
Filming took place from February to June 2024 at Trilith Studios and Atlanta Metro Studios in Georgia, with additional locations in Utah and Kuala Lumpur.
Box Office Performance
Thunderbolts opened with a strong box office performance, earning $76 million domestically and $86.1 million internationally during its opening weekend, totaling $162 million worldwide. As of now, it has grossed approximately $177.3 million globally. Business InsiderWikipedia
Critical Reception
The film has been well-received by critics and audiences alike, garnering an 88% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes. It has been praised for its thematic depth, direction, and performances, marking a positive turn for Marvel after a series of less impactful titles.
Notable Elements
-
Title Asterisk: The asterisk in the title Thunderbolts is revealed in the film’s end credits to signify the team’s rebranding as the “New Avengers.”
-
Post-Credits Scene: A post-credits scene set 14 months after the film’s events shows the New Avengers being alerted to an interdimensional spacecraft entering Earth-616, identified as the Fantastic Four’s. This scene was filmed on the set of Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and hints at future MCU developments.
Thunderbolts stands out in the MCU for its exploration of complex themes and character dynamics, setting the stage for future narratives in the franchise.
