Marvel’s Thunderbolts*, about a ragtag group of misfit antiheroes banding together to save the world, opened on Friday. It is currently at #1 at the box office, toppling the horror hit Sinners from its previous throne. It grossed $31.5 million on its opening day and is projected to bring in $165 million for its opening weekend.
Thunderbolts* is a Hit
Thunderbolts* brought in $31.5 million from Friday’s box office and its preview screenings on Thursday. This easily placed it in #1 at the box office. Given that the movie isn’t continuing a previously well-known Marvel franchise, this is an impressive gross, though its opening numbers are below those of the recent Captain America: Brave New World. Over its opening weekend, Thunderbolts* has built up towards $165 million internationally over its opening weekend.
Critical and Audience Reception
While many recent Marvel movies have received mixed reception from critics and audiences, Thunderbolts* has been garnering generally positive reception. The film currently has an 88% critical score on Rotten Tomatoes, along with an impressive 94% audience score. This could be because of how the story focuses on some of the lesser-known faces in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, giving them their chance to shine. It’s also fun to spend some time with edgy antiheroes. Last year, Marvel’s R-rated Deadpool and Wolverine found phenomenal success through its titular antiheroes.
New Hope for the Marvel Cinematic Universe?
Some people think that the Marvel Cinematic Universe went into a slump after 2019’s massive hit Avengers: Endgame. With Avengers: Doomsday on the way, perhaps the Marvel Cinematic Universe is experiencing a turnaround. The audience’s enthusiasm for Thunderbolts* could mean that the superhero fatigue is wearing off and audiences are open to Marvel excitement once again.
Conclusion
How long will Thunderbolts* maintain its domination at the box office? With May seeing the releases of such films as Final Destination: Bloodlines, Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning, and the live-action remake of Lilo and Stitch, Thunderbolts* will face some stiff competition in the weeks to come. However, this opening weekend shows that audiences aren’t quite tired of Marvel yet. For now, the film can enjoy its success with the public.
