Thunderbolts*

Thunderbolts is the latest addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), mixing high-octane action with complex character development. Directed by Jake Schreier, the movie was released on August 15, 2025. This film brings together a group of anti-heroes who are given the chance to redeem themselves by taking on dangerous missions. The movie features an ensemble cast, with some familiar faces from previous MCU films, and introduces new characters who bring fresh dynamics to the team.

With a runtime of about 2 hours and 15 minutes, Thunderbolts explores themes of redemption, loyalty, and the blurred lines between good and evil. The film has generated significant hype, especially for its action-packed sequences and its deep dive into the darker side of the MCU. In this review, we will explore the story, acting, strengths, weaknesses, and more to see if it truly lives up to the Marvel legacy.

Plot Summary

Thunderbolts follows a unique group of anti-heroes, most of whom have a dark past. The government forms this team to carry out covert missions that are too risky for traditional superheroes. The team is led by General Ross, played by Harrison Ford, and includes characters like Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), US Agent (Wyatt Russell), and Red Guardian (David Harbour), among others.

The story focuses on the team’s first mission together, where they must infiltrate a heavily guarded facility to stop a rogue organization from launching a devastating attack. Along the way, they face moral dilemmas, internal conflicts, and trust issues, making the mission more complicated than anticipated. Each character is forced to confront their own demons and decide whether redemption is truly within reach.

The film blends classic superhero action with complex character arcs, offering something for both fans of high-stakes action and those who enjoy deeper emotional storytelling.

What’s Good?

Direction and Cinematography

One of the standout aspects of Thunderbolts is its direction. Jake Schreier does a brilliant job of balancing the action with the characters’ personal journeys. Unlike traditional superhero films, this movie focuses heavily on the emotional struggles of the team members. The pacing of the film is well done, and Schreier makes sure that each character has enough screen time to develop their story.

The cinematography is equally impressive. The action scenes are shot with precision, and the camera angles add intensity to the fight sequences. The film’s darker color palette complements the gritty, more mature themes, setting it apart from the more colorful and lighter tones often seen in other MCU films.

Acting Performances

The performances in Thunderbolts are exceptional, especially with such a star-studded cast. Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova continues to shine, bringing humor and depth to her character. She delivers her lines with a perfect mix of sarcasm and sincerity, making her one of the most engaging characters in the film.

David Harbour, who plays Red Guardian, is also fantastic. His portrayal of a conflicted hero trying to reconcile with his past brings both comedy and emotional weight to the film. The chemistry between the characters is strong, particularly between Yelena and Red Guardian, who form a sibling-like bond throughout the movie.

Harrison Ford, who plays General Ross, brings gravitas to the role, offering a mix of stern leadership and vulnerability as he tries to guide this group of misfits. His presence is magnetic, and it’s clear that he adds a level of seriousness to the film, making it feel more grounded despite its larger-than-life premise.

Music and Soundtrack

The soundtrack for Thunderbolts enhances the overall experience. Composed by Michael Giacchino, the score is bold and suspenseful, matching the tone of the film perfectly. The action scenes are underscored by powerful orchestral music, while quieter moments feature more reflective, emotional compositions that align with the character-driven narrative.

In addition to the original score, the movie also features a few standout songs that help establish the tone of particular scenes. These songs are well-chosen, providing an additional layer of emotional depth to key moments.

Character Development

While Thunderbolts is full of action, its true strength lies in its character development. Each member of the team is given a backstory that adds depth to their motivations. The film takes its time to explore their personal conflicts, and it’s this emotional depth that makes them more than just typical superhero characters.

Yelena Belova’s journey, in particular, stands out as she grapples with her past and her feelings toward the people she’s lost. US Agent (played by Wyatt Russell) is also given a significant character arc, and his internal struggle between serving his country and dealing with his own morality is handled well.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Strong Performances: The cast delivers some of the best performances in the MCU, with Florence Pugh, David Harbour, and Harrison Ford standing out.
• Character-Driven Story: The focus on character development over flashy action sequences gives the film emotional depth.
• Action Sequences: The film doesn’t shy away from intense action, and the fight scenes are both thrilling and visually impressive.
• Mature Themes: Unlike many superhero films, Thunderbolts explores darker, more complex themes such as redemption, betrayal, and personal struggle, making it more relatable for adult audiences.

Weaknesses

• Slow Pacing in Some Parts: The film’s character-driven focus means that there are moments where the pacing slows down, especially during emotional scenes. While these moments are important, they may feel drawn out for some viewers who are expecting non-stop action.
• Limited Villain Development: The antagonist, though formidable, doesn’t receive as much depth as the heroes. This makes the villain feel somewhat generic, lacking the complexity that would make them truly memorable.
• Predictability: Some of the plot twists are predictable, which takes away from the suspense. However, this is a minor issue compared to the film’s strengths.

Target Audience

Thunderbolts is perfect for:

• Marvel Fans: Obviously, MCU enthusiasts will love this movie as it ties into the larger Marvel Universe and features characters from previous films.
• Action Lovers: If you enjoy high-energy action scenes mixed with emotional storytelling, Thunderbolts is right up your alley.
• Fans of Character-Driven Narratives: Those who appreciate deeper character exploration and complex moral dilemmas will find this film satisfying.
• Older Audiences: The mature themes make it more suitable for adults or older teens who can handle the heavier emotional moments.

Box Office Details

Thunderbolts had a substantial budget of INR 450 crore ($55 million), reflecting its high production values and star power. The film has been performing well at the box office, drawing in audiences worldwide with its blend of action and drama.

Here’s a breakdown of its day-wise earnings for the first five days:

Day	Domestic Earnings (INR)	Overseas Earnings (INR)	Total Earnings (INR)
Day 1	45 Crore	20 Crore	65 Crore
Day 2	55 Crore	25 Crore	80 Crore
Day 3	60 Crore	30 Crore	90 Crore
Day 4	50 Crore	28 Crore	78 Crore
Day 5	58 Crore	35 Crore	93 Crore

The movie has grossed INR 406 crore globally by the end of its first week, with strong earnings in both domestic and international markets. It is expected to continue performing well due to the positive reviews and interest from Marvel fans.

Recommendation

In conclusion, Thunderbolts is a thrilling and emotionally resonant addition to the MCU. While it has its flaws, such as occasional pacing issues and a predictable villain, its strong performances, action-packed sequences, and character-driven storytelling make it a must-watch for fans of superhero movies. If you’re a Marvel fan or someone who enjoys complex, action-packed narratives, Thunderbolts will not disappoint. Highly recommended for older audiences who appreciate mature themes mixed with explosive action.