On Friday, May 2, 2025 the new Marvel movie Thunderbolts* came screeching into movie theaters. It made quite a good impression, as this lighthearted, funny, and action-packed movie proved to be what MCU fans needed right now. It was a fresh take on The Avengers, using some of the older, lesser known characters. Because there were less superpowers on dislay, some viewers said that it felt more realistic.
Rundown of Thunderbolts* Characters
Though most audiences do recognize Bucky Barnes, Yelena, and Alexei, there are some other allies to help this team. We additionally have Ghost, US Agent Walker, and Taskmaster. Plus, there’s the strangely enigmatic Bob, also known as the Sentry. Is Bob a friend or foe?
With our six main allies in place, they must find a way to identify a common goal and work together (mostly) productively. A lot of attitude and a little humor was brought to the table.
In franchises like Guardians of the Galaxy, there is always some comic relief, such as Drax or even Rocket. This is what helped make those movies so successful and beloved. Who do we have now in the Thunderbolts*?
The Thunderbolts* and Red Guardian
Most every MCU superhero movie has a good amount of humor, often with a few characters regularly delivering it. The new Thunderbolts* movie is no exception. Red Guardian or Alexei, played by David Harbour, has some of the absolute best lines in the movie. Between his soft digs at his teammates, his often irreverent humor, and his desire to be on the Wheaties box, Harbour hams it up.
In a similar vein, as Drax of the Guardian franchise, or occasionally the Incredible Hulk in MCU, Alexei takes the humor to a new level. This lightens up every scene which he is in. This makes him the most likable character in Thunderbolts*.
US Agent John Walker in Thunderbolts*
As a close second for likability, John Walker (played by Wyatt Russell) gives a portrayal in Thunderbolts* as an “everyman.” On occasion, he fails to see the greater good, so he questions some of their moves. He will also give his teammates a reality check. In this film, John Walker doesn’t have superpowers, as he ultimately gains them when he is considered to fill Captain America‘s shoes and suit. Although our agent can seem a bit whiny, he gives us the daily perspective into the Thunderbolts* crazy action sequences.
Summing It Up
You don’t have to be a huge fan of any of the MCU‘s characters going into see Thunderbolts*. Most characters are fairly likable. You would just need to be open to them saving the world. But, along the way, you will find lighthearted humor, off-color jokes, plus general levity to make each scene a little brighter. This certainly pays off in the end.
