Following early buzz, Thunderbolts* has received strong early reactions after its first screening in London. As the final film in Marvel’s Phase 5, it’s earning praise for its emotional depth, darker tone, and standout performances. Critics are highlighting its fresh direction, character-driven story, and implications for the future of the MCU.
People are loving Marvel’s Thunderbolts* in first online reactions
Following its official screening at Cineworld Leicester Square in London, Thunderbolts received widespread praise for its dark tone, character depth, and ensemble cast. Critics frequently highlighted Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova and Lewis Pullman’s Sentry as standouts..
@BeanzGotGamez reacted, “’Thunderbolts*’ was awesome. Tons of implications on how the MCU is moving forward. The team works well together, plenty of emotion. Yelena is my MVP. Definitely a super fun movie. Definitely stick around after the credits.”
Emily Murray stated, “‘Thunderbolts*’ is easily one of the best MCU movies in a long time… tells a genuinely emotional story.” Jacob Fisher of DiscussingFilm added, “‘THUNDERBOLTS*’ is truly fantastic, the cast has electric chemistry with each other (Florence Pugh & Lewis Pullman are the standouts) and the action sequences are very strong. But most of all, the film’s story hit me like a ton of bricks, it’s bold, important & so well-written.”
Matt Neglia of Next Best Picture noted, “It’s some of Marvel’s darkest material to date… Florence Pugh… carries much of the dramatic weight… while Lewis Pullman delivers a complex performance.” Brandon Norwood of The Film Blerds said, “Shocked how good ‘THUNDERBOLTS*’ is… this dysfunctional team has chemistry too.”
Big Gold Belt Media described it as “raw, hilarious, and deeply human… gritty, emotional, and unlike anything Marvel has done before.” Amon Warmann of Empire called the film “visually daring” and “emotionally resonant,” highlighting the performances by Pugh, Pullman, and David Harbour.
Mia Pflüger of Film and Glory noted, “Thunderbolts* introduces a new era for Marvel… Sebastian Stan has an absolute scene stealing moment, yet Florence Pugh shows she is the true lead of the new generation and team.”
Thunderbolts* concludes Marvel’s Phase 5 and features both a mid-credit and post-credit scene.
Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on SuperHeroHype.
