‘Thunderbolts’ Premiere: Florence Pugh Shines in Marvel's Dark New Chapter

The film press got their first look at Marvel’s “Thunderbolts,” and initial reactions are calling it a “bold dive into themes of trauma, healing, and redemption.” Florence Pugh, reprising her role as Yelena from “Black Widow,” and now taking the spotlight in her own Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film after appearing in series like “Hawkeye,” is being particularly praised. Her performance is described as “superb” and she is noted for “stealing the show.”

Film writer Emily Murray describes “Thunderbolts” as “one of the best MCU movies in a long time,” remarking on its “spark, charisma, and genuinely emotional storyline.” She admits it brought her to tears and highlights Pugh’s exceptional performance as a standout.

Critic Brandon Norwood observes that the film’s focus on character development and practical action harkens back to “classic Marvel.” He notes that the chemistry among this team of anti-heroes adds to the film’s appeal and expresses regret it wasn’t released sooner.

“Thunderbolts” follows an unconventional team of quarrelsome anti-heroes as they unite to face a common foe. The cast includes Pugh (Yelena Belova), Pullman (Sentry), Wyatt Russell (John Walker), Hannah John-Kamen (Ghost), Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes), David Harbour (Red Guardian), and Olga Kurylenko (Taskmaster).

Ahead of the film’s release, Marvel hinted that “Thunderbolts” would offer a new twist on the superhero genre.