The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is back with "Thunderbolts," a film that promises to break the mold by bringing together a team of antiheroes, marginalized characters, and morally ambiguous soldiers. Directed by Jake Schreier and produced by Kevin Feige, the film features a star-studded cast including Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova, Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes, David Harbour as Red Guardian, and others. With an initial rating of 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, it is not just another MCU installment; it is a crucial piece for the upcoming Phase 6 films.
As with any Marvel release, fans have been eagerly asking: how many post-credit scenes does "Thunderbolts" have? The answer is two, and they are quite significant in the context of the MCU. The first scene is a light-hearted moment featuring Red Guardian, while the second scene sets up future narratives involving the Fantastic Four.
The first post-credit scene wraps up a loose end in Red Guardian's storyline. In a humorous supermarket encounter, Alexei, portrayed by David Harbour, excitedly shows off a Wheaties cereal box featuring the faces of the new Avengers. He attempts to impress a woman, who seems unaware of his identity, leaving the scene with a bemused smile. While it may not be a pivotal moment for the MCU, it serves as a comedic touch that fans have come to expect from Marvel.
The second post-credit scene, however, is where the real intrigue lies. Set 14 months after the events of "Thunderbolts," it showcases Yelena, Bucky, and the rest of the team in their operations base, previously known as the Stark Tower. The team discusses their future image, including the possibility of asking Sam Wilson for Captain America's shield. Suddenly, they detect an unidentified interdimensional ship entering Earth's atmosphere, which turns out to be the ship of the Fantastic Four. This scene not only introduces the iconic team into the MCU but also hints at a future collaboration against the formidable Dr. Doom in the upcoming "Avengers: Doomsday."
The arrival of the Fantastic Four has been highly anticipated by fans, especially since Pedro Pascal's presence at the film's premiere raised speculation about his role as Reed Richards. The film's credits even include a special thanks to the composer of the Fantastic Four, further solidifying the connection.
"Thunderbolts" marks a significant transition in the MCU. As the classic heroes fade from the forefront, characters like Yelena Belova and Bucky Barnes are stepping up to carry the legacy of the Avengers. The film explores themes of redemption and second chances, as former villains unite for a common cause, adding a more human and darker layer to the superhero narrative.
With a mix of action, dark humor, and drama, "Thunderbolts" has drawn comparisons to DC's "Suicide Squad," yet maintains the distinct style of the MCU. The film's premise revolves around a group of antiheroes, recruited by the government and manipulated by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, as they embark on a high-risk covert mission to defeat a new threat: Sentry, played by Lewis Pullman.
Critics have praised the performances, particularly Florence Pugh's portrayal of Yelena, and the film's ability to balance humor with serious themes. As the MCU continues to expand, "Thunderbolts" serves as a bridge to upcoming projects, including "Fantastic Four: First Steps" and "Avengers: Doomsday," promising to weave together the narratives of various characters and settings.
In a world where superhero fatigue is becoming a concern, "Thunderbolts" stands out as one of the most anticipated films of the year. It not only offers a fresh take on the genre but also sets the stage for future developments in the MCU. The film's release on April 30, 2025, in Mexico, has already generated excitement, and its success could pave the way for more unconventional storytelling within the franchise.
As fans prepare to watch "Thunderbolts," they are reminded to stay seated through the credits. The two post-credit scenes are not just a tradition but a crucial part of the MCU's storytelling strategy, linking past narratives with future possibilities. The film is a testament to Marvel's ability to evolve while keeping audiences engaged, and its impact will likely resonate throughout the upcoming phases of the cinematic universe.
