The first reviews for Marvel’s Thunderbolts are out, and they’re mostly positive. Over on Rotten Tomatoes, it has an impressive 88% — not bad for a movie starring mostly side characters from the Marvel universe.

Directed by Jake Schreier, Thunderbolts stands out for its different tone. Critics say it’s less flashy and more emotional, with deeper, more human stories. The film moves away from the usual Marvel style, offering something that feels fresh. It focuses on characters that fans usually see in the background, giving them a chance to shine.

One of the highlights, according to many reviews, is the pairing of Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova and David Harbour’s Red Guardian. They bring a fun and emotional spark. Still, some critics think the full team lacks real chemistry, which holds the film back a little.

The strongest parts of Thunderbolts are its darker and more personal scenes. It deals with things like loneliness and emotional trauma in a way Marvel hasn’t done much before. But when the movie tries to add in some humor, it doesn’t always land and can feel out of place.

Visually, the film also looks different from most Marvel titles. The effects are rougher and more textured, not the usual shiny CGI. Critics say this helps the visuals feel more cinematic and less overloaded with digital effects.

Thunderbolts hits theaters worldwide on May 2, 2025.

Main image: youtube.com

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