Thunderbolts* (2025) Review

When an unconventional team of antiheroes find themselves in a death trap, together they must embark on a dangerous mission which will see them come face to face with the darkest moments of their pasts.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Throughout Thunderbolts* we have Yelena as the more leading character and that was quite a refreshing approach. It doesn’t take long for her mission, which she wants to be her final one for Valentina before moving into a more public role. I guess it is misplaced trust when it quickly escalates that she was not the only one sent on that mission, others were as well with each of them given another as their target.

A move in which Valentina believed would not only destroy everything within the facility but all of the expendables she used as agents. This would then see an alliance quickly formed with John Walker, Ava Starr aka Ghost and newbie Bob. Although the latter was going to have some story and quick growth that is for sure!

We also have Bucky Barnes in his new role and attempting to leave his former life behind him and make a difference. Although with that he also sees an opportunity to be part of a team again, although is the type of time he wants to be in?

Thunderbolts* is easily the best film we have had from Marvel in a few years now and it felt refreshing, I do believe Florence Pugh played a huge part in making it feel that way though as she is just brilliant in every single role. A massive surprise with the film though and the storyline was how extremely dark it went, I was not prepared for that aspect at all. Having been through some very tough times in the past few years and eventually coming out into some light this year, it felt as though seeing the darkness descend and eventually lift was very powerful. I really do hope that part of the story can help people who are struggling.

Anyway, with that unexpected darkness I found myself enjoying that deep side as well as growing to love out antiheroes, it worked in a much better way than Suicide Squad which I would think is a little bit of a comparison sorry I had to mention that.

Florence Pugh is having a second mention, because why not she is fantastic. Works so well against David Harbour. The mixture with Lewis Pullman, Wyatt Russell and Hannah John-Kamen is a very pleasing group. I love the evil nature of Julia Louis-Dreyfus, our Elaine has come a very long way hasn’t she! Sebastian Stan has somewhat of a smaller role as Bucky but still some decent moments.

I feel as though a Godfather quote is needed to finish this review with regards to Marvel, I found the latest Captain America to be terrible so … “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in”.