Thunderbolts brings back memories of Marvel’s glory, with a proper autocrat to overthrow, a team of misfits to band together and New York to save. All the while, the film pokes fun at itself for this assembly of “New Avengers” and touches on the hole that these former heroes leave in the world’s socio-political ecosystem.
This journey looks through the eyes of Yelena Belova, who is still reeling from the aftermath of recent years’ events and the grief that accompanied them. Belova is working as a mercenary for Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, a high-ranking power figure who is embroiled in an impeachment case and is doggedly concerned with tying up loose ends. Belova becomes one of them as she attempts to chuck in the towel on her paid-killer gig - all for the hope of finding purpose, something that has been missing from her life since the death of her sister.
The movie also introduces Bob - a nomad with no memories, in danger of being used as a pawn by those who pursue him…
Overall, I really enjoyed this film. There were moments of humour that brought levity to discussions and depictions of severe depression and bipolar disorder, without being too spoofy or undermining the heavier themes. It was also great to see a return of Belova’s adopted father, Alexei Shostakov, who came with some cracking dad jokes and his own serving of purpose, as well as the appearance of a world-weary Bucky (a.k.a Congressman) Barnes, who just wants to do some good in the world.
I thought the main villain was suitably punchable and the action sequences even punchier; and the heroes are a group of misfit criminals - so if you’ve ever been annoyed by Captain America’s righteous jawline, this film is for you: a regular dude.