The latest MCU theatrical release is a true underdog story, both on and off the screen. After the lackluster performance of Captain America Brave New World, Marvel has some work to earn the attention of even some of its more loyal fans. Luckily, I have good news about the baddest heroes on Earth 616. Thunderbolts* is worth it, and I’ll tell you why.

The Plot

Thunderbolts* begins with Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), aka Black Widow, teetering on the edge, both literally and metaphorically. Desperate for change and purpose, she goes on one last covert mission for the shady CIA director Valentina Alegra De Fontane (Julia Louis-Dreyfus). While on this mission, she discovers Alegra’s sinister double-cross and must team up with a group of betrayed former bad guys, her over-eager father figure, and Bob. Together, they must survive and fight to make things right. 

It’s Different

With Thunderbolts* Marvel has delivered something that feels both familiar and fresh. The comedic tone and “found-family” message feel very much like James Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 1, but with an added element of heart and emotion that has really resonated with early audiences. By taking a big risk in the third act, they managed to switch up the traditional superhero movie formula that, let’s face it, has grown a little tiring. In addition to all of that, Thunderbolts* is the first MCU movie in a long time that doesn’t feel like it’s just trying to tie up loose ends. It actually feels like they’re setting up the first steps in the future Marvel cinematic story (be sure to stay for that post-credits scene, trust me).

The Team

Everyone in Thunderbolts* is fantastic. From the egotistical attitude of John Walker (Wyatt Russell) from Falcon and the Winter Soldier to the ever-so-British wit of Eva Starr, aka Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), who was criminally underused in Ant-Man and the Wasp. Of course David Harbour and Sebastian Stan are having a lot of fun as Red Guardian and Congressman Bucky, and Florence Pugh melts into the character of Yelena Belova. But by far, my favorite performance of the film was Lewis Pullman as Bob. The subtle shifts in his performance as his character evolves and new layers are revealed made me fully believe in his character’s struggle.

The Message

I hesitate to dive too far into the deeper message that Thunderbolts* is trying to convey, for fear of crossing the line into spoiler territory. I will say this: The film does have something powerful to say about trauma, and it says it proudly. I was deeply impressed with the way they handled the subject. However, I will be brave enough to reveal that the message I got from the film was this: even broken people can heal, and no one can fight alone forever.

The Bad

As much as I enjoyed Thunderbolts*, I can’t say it is a perfect film. Those looking for irreverent, non-stop action like Deadpool and Wolverine will find that momentum interrupted by frequent moments of exposition and character development. Though I would point out that the exposition seems to be an honest, good-faith effort to help viewers who may have missed one or two MCU properties catch up on necessary backstory, so I’d cut them a little slack. The film may feel a bit long for some, and could probably stand to lose some of the time spent in the political environment. Lastly, while I can’t stress enough how much I truly enjoy Soviet daddy bear David Harbour, Thunderbolts* might have benefited from a bit less time with Red Guardian.

The Result

Thunderbolts* is an extremely entertaining film, if you can let yourself enjoy it. Despite many comparisons, this movie is not, and does not try to be the MCU version of Suicide Squad, and that’s okay. There are some who will always long for the rush of Avengers Endgame, but if you give Florence Pugh and her friends a chance, I believe they can soften even the coldest of Marvel hater’s hearts

Editor’s note: Thanks to Screen Rant for making this early review possible, and inviting us to experience Thunderbolts* in a 4DX theater.