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Marvel’s Thunderbolts: Initial Reactions Signal Return to Form
Marvel may be experiencing a resurgence with its upcoming film, Thunderbolts. Disney has recently lifted the social media embargo, allowing early reactions to surface more than a week ahead of the film’s premiere. The feedback has been notably positive, marking a strong shift for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in recent times.
Emily Murray, a freelance journalist, expressed her enthusiasm on social media, saying, “Well Thunderbolts is easily one of the best MCU movies in a long time (and maybe one of my new personal faves). It has so much spark and charisma, telling an emotional story that resonates deeply. A tear was shed. Florence Pugh in particular is superb, she just walks away with it.” Her sentiment is echoed by many early viewers, suggesting that the film strikes a chord emotionally.
Similarly, podcaster Neil Vagg praised the film as a “home run for Marvel Studios.” He highlighted Pugh’s outstanding performance and noted the comedic element brought by David Harbour, declaring the ensemble cast together creates an exhilarating blend of action, comedy, and drama. Importantly, he emphasized that the film celebrates its MCU roots without being burdened by the overarching continuity.
Matt Neglia, editor-in-chief of Next Best Picture, provided a contrasting perspective, noting that Thunderbolts offers a fresh direction for the franchise at a crucial time. He remarked on the film’s darker themes, which delve into emotional repercussions for characters grappling with their past. Pugh is lauded for her central role, providing much of the film’s emotional weight, while Lewis Pullman’s nuanced performance as a conflicted character adds depth.
Thunderbolts is set apart from previous MCU offerings by focusing on a team of antiheroes rather than the traditional heroes. The film features a mix of familiar characters, such as Pugh’s Yelena Belova and Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes, alongside newcomers like Julia Louis-Dreyfus’s Valentina Allegra de Fontaine and Pullman, who is believed to portray Bob Reynolds, aka Sentry.
The anticipation for this film is heightened by the disappointing reception of other recent Marvel installments. While past films like Deadpool & Wolverine found some success, many have faltered in terms of critical acclaim and box office performance. In particular, Captain America: Brave New World has been pointed to as a low point in the franchise’s trajectory.
Thunderbolts is set to debut in theaters on May 2. As the release date nears, reactions from critics will be released following the review embargo lift on April 29, promising a comprehensive view of the film’s place within the MCU.
Many viewers have already shared their excitement online. One user noted that the film is a “total blast,” highlighting its humor paired with an emotional storyline. Another remarked that Thunderbolts feels like a significant turning point for the MCU, suggesting refreshing implications for future narratives.
With ongoing discussions about the film’s impact, it remains to be seen how it will reshape the expectations for Marvel’s cinematic landscape and whether it indeed marks a return to the franchise’s earlier triumphs.
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www.goldderby.com