Thunderbolts*: A Welcome Course Correction for the MCU?
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been facing a rough patch lately, with films like Captain America: Brave New World receiving poor critical reception. However, it seems that the tide may be turning with the upcoming release of Thunderbolts, the 36th film in the MCU. According to reviews aggregated by Rotten Tomatoes, critics are praising the film’s depiction of mental illness, performances, and its potential to revitalize the franchise.
A Must-See Marvel Movie?
Many critics are hailing Thunderbolts as a standout superhero film. Joey Magidson from Awards Radar notes that dismissing the film as an "also-ran" would be a mistake, as it’s "one of Marvel’s more successful efforts of late." Similarly, Tyler Taing from Discussing Film calls it "a great superhero flick and one of the biggest surprises of 2025." Ross Bonaime from Collider agrees, stating that the film is "a pleasant surprise" and "sets the bar high for more superhero films." As Rotten Tomatoes reports, these positive reviews are a relief for Marvel fans.
A Refreshing Take on the MCU
If you’ve found yourself growing tired of the MCU, Thunderbolts might be just the movie to win you back. Ian Sandwell from Digital Spy suggests that the film could be "just the movie to pull you back in" if you’ve fallen out of love with the franchise. Matt Singer from Screen Crush agrees, calling it "a nice reminder of what this company is capable of at its best." Tessa Smith from Mama’s Geeky adds that it’s "what fans have been waiting for" and that it’s "the rare movie that can be appreciated by casual Marvel fans and diehards alike." According to Rotten Tomatoes, this film is a breath of fresh air for the MCU.
A Step in the Right Direction?
Critics are also praising Thunderbolts for its thematic ambition and exploration of complex issues. Eric Francisco from Esquire Magazine notes that the film’s "thematic ambition" is "established through its genuine exploration of depression, substance abuse, and the writings of philosopher Søren Kierkegaard." Siddhant Adlakha from JoySauce.com agrees, calling it "a story steeped in death anxiety and confronting mortality." As the source Rotten Tomatoes highlights, Thunderbolts is a much-needed success for the MCU.
Performances and Direction
The film’s ensemble cast, including Florence Pugh and Lewis Pullman, has received widespread critical acclaim. Pete Hammond from Deadline Hollywood Daily notes that Pugh brings "real gravitas" to her character, Yelena. Lewis Pullman’s performance as Bob has also been singled out as a highlight, with Ross Bonaime calling him "a standout" and Justin Clark from Slant Magazine praising his "tremendously sympathetic performance."
A New Direction for the MCU?
The success of Thunderbolts could be a welcome course correction for the MCU, which has faced criticism for its recent output. David Gonzalez from The Cinematic Reel notes that the film "serves as a cinematic olive branch to cinephiles holding out hope that better days for Marvel are on the horizon." Nick Schager from The Daily Beast agrees, stating that the film "may not reinvent the wheel, but it serves as a cinematic olive branch to cinephiles holding out hope that better days for Marvel are on the horizon." As Rotten Tomatoes suggests, Thunderbolts could be the start of a new chapter for the MCU.
Conclusion
Thunderbolts opens in theaters on May 2, 2025, and is expected to be a major player in the summer blockbuster season. With its positive reviews, talented cast, and thematic ambition, it could be just what the MCU needs to get back on track. As the critics have noted, Thunderbolts is a must-see Marvel movie that offers hope for the future of the franchise. According to Rotten Tomatoes, this film is a welcome addition to the MCU.
