The Marvel Studios' latest movie, Thunderbolts, has made a spectacular entry into the global box office, earning $106.21 million (approximately ¥23.166 billion) in its opening weekend, which began on May 2, 2025. This impressive figure not only secured the top spot in the weekend’s global box office rankings but also marked the film as the 36th consecutive entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) to debut at No. 1 in the United States.
In Japan, where the film was released simultaneously, Thunderbolts grossed ¥459 million, attracting 271,000 moviegoers within its first three days. This strong performance highlights the film's significance as a pivotal installment in the MCU, heralding a new era for the franchise.
Critics and audiences alike have responded positively to Thunderbolts, with a Fresh rating of 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, a 94% audience score on Popcornmater, and an A- Cinema Score. Additionally, the film garnered a commendable score of 4.1 on the Japanese review platform Filmarks as of May 7, 2025. These accolades reflect not only the film's entertainment value but also its emotional depth and character-driven storytelling.
Robert Downey Jr., who famously portrayed Iron Man/Tony Stark in the original Avengers series, took to Instagram to express his enthusiasm for Thunderbolts. He shared that he watched the film with fellow Avengers members and praised the team at the heart of the movie. Downey Jr. is set to return to the MCU as the villain Doctor Doom in the upcoming Avengers: Doom's Day, scheduled for release in 2026.
The narrative of Thunderbolts revolves around a group of unconventional anti-heroes, who, despite their troubled pasts, come together to face an unprecedented threat to the world. They are not your typical heroes; rather, they are a team of misfits—dubbed the "Thunderbolts"—who must confront their own demons while battling a formidable adversary known as Sentry, described as possessing power beyond that of all the Avengers combined. This sets the stage for intense action sequences and dramatic confrontations.
The film's action scenes have been touted for their grand scale, characteristic of Marvel Studio productions, but what sets Thunderbolts apart is its emotional and dramatic tone. Critics have noted that it delves into themes of trauma, loneliness, and the search for purpose in life, making it one of the most relatable blockbusters in the Marvel franchise to date.
Florence Pugh, who plays Yelena, has received particular acclaim for her portrayal of a highly trained assassin grappling with the loss of her sister. Her performance strikes a balance between emotional depth and high-octane action, earning her praise from both audiences and critics.
As the film continues to garner attention, there are already calls for a long run in theaters. Its unique blend of chaotic action and character-driven plots has resonated with viewers, prompting discussions on social media and various review platforms. Many have described it as "the most human story in the Marvel universe" and highlighted its focus on the characters' struggles and personal growth.
In a recent reveal, an action scene featuring the Thunderbolts has been shared, showcasing the chaotic dynamics between these flawed characters. The footage depicts Yelena, US Agent/John Walker, Ghost, and Taskmaster, who find themselves in a tense standoff in a mysterious warehouse. As they unleash their unique skills while hurling insults at each other, the scene encapsulates the unpredictable nature of their alliance, leaving viewers eager to see how their relationships evolve.
As Thunderbolts continues to break records and capture hearts, it stands poised to not only redefine the MCU's narrative landscape but also set the stage for future installments, including the anticipated Avengers: Doom's Day. With its combination of thrilling action, emotional storytelling, and character complexities, Thunderbolts is proving to be a significant milestone in the Marvel franchise.
