Convention - D23 Brazil : Marvel Studios Reveals Explosive Thunderbolts* New Trailer

By Mulder, Brésil, Sao Paulo, Transamerica Expo Center, 09 november 2024

On November 9, 2024, Marvel Studios took center stage at D23 Brazil in São Paulo to unveil the much-anticipated new trailer for Thunderbolts*. The latest entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) promises to redefine superhero storytelling with its focus on antiheroes, moral ambiguity, and high-stakes covert missions. Directed by Jake Schreier and written by Eric Pearson, Lee Sung Jin, and Joanna Calo, Thunderbolts* is set to be the climactic conclusion of Phase Five of the MCU, scheduled for release on May 2, 2025.

The trailer introduces the Thunderbolts*, a government-assembled team of complex and deeply flawed individuals. This unconventional ensemble includes Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova, David Harbour’s Alexei Shostakov/Red Guardian, Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier, Wyatt Russell’s John Walker/U.S. Agent, Hannah John-Kamen’s Ava Starr/Ghost, Olga Kurylenko’s Antonia Dreykov/Taskmaster, and Lewis Pullman’s Bob/Sentry. Each character comes with their own distinct motivations, traumas, and talents, creating a volatile mix of personalities tasked with carrying out morally ambiguous missions. Julia Louis-Dreyfus reprises her role as Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, the CIA director orchestrating their operations with calculated precision and political savvy.

The new trailer delivers an exhilarating preview of the team’s dynamics and mission structure. The Thunderbolts are depicted as a dysfunctional yet resourceful group, constantly at odds with one another while navigating high-risk scenarios. One of the most talked-about moments in the trailer reveals that Valentina has acquired the long-vacant Avengers Tower, transforming it into the Thunderbolts' headquarters. This revelation resolves years of speculation from fans about the fate of the iconic structure, last prominently featured in Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017).

Another highlight from the trailer is a gripping high-speed pursuit in which the Thunderbolts are hunted by S.H.I.E.L.D. operatives. The chaotic scene underscores the team’s disarray, as their individual skills clash and occasionally align under pressure. The tension culminates with a dramatic intervention by Bucky Barnes, whose leadership is tested as he struggles to unite the disparate group. These moments hint at the film’s exploration of internal and external conflicts, blending action-packed sequences with emotionally charged character development.

Sebastian Stan’s portrayal of Bucky Barnes promises a compelling new layer to his character. He described his role as akin to Jack Nicholson’s Randle McMurphy in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest—a reluctant leader tasked with uniting a chaotic and degenerate group. Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova also stands out, building on her previous appearances in the MCU with a mix of sharp wit, intense combat skills, and unresolved emotional baggage. Meanwhile, David Harbour’s Alexei Shostakov deepens his fatherly dynamic with Belova, providing moments of humor and heart in a high-stakes narrative. Each cast member brings unique energy to their role, with Wyatt Russell’s John Walker embodying the struggles of a fallen hero, and Hannah John-Kamen’s Ghost offering a calmer, more controlled version of her previously volatile character.

The trailer also teases the darker, more grounded tone of Thunderbolts*. Julia Louis-Dreyfus revealed that the film relies heavily on practical effects and stunt work, a deliberate choice to evoke the MCU’s earlier focus on human stories and physicality. By emphasizing these elements, Thunderbolts aims to break away from the CGI-heavy spectacles often associated with superhero films. Instead, it promises an immersive experience that combines gritty realism with the MCU’s signature action and humor.

Behind the scenes, the production of Thunderbolts* faced significant hurdles. Initially delayed by the Hollywood writers’ and actors’ strikes in 2023, filming eventually began in early 2024 at Trilith Studios and Atlanta Metro Studios in Georgia, with additional shoots in Utah. Despite the setbacks, Marvel Studios successfully wrapped principal photography by mid-2024, showcasing their resilience and commitment to delivering a high-quality film. Early footage was previewed at events such as San Diego Comic-Con and CineEurope, building anticipation among fans and critics alike.

The inclusion of an asterisk in the film’s title, Thunderbolts*, has sparked widespread speculation. Marvel Studios has remained tight-lipped about its significance, stating that its meaning will be revealed after the film’s release. This enigmatic detail has fueled fan theories, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the project. Some speculate it could reference a major plot twist, a hidden character, or even a thematic element central to the story.

Thunderbolts* stands out within the MCU not only for its focus on antiheroes but also for its ensemble-driven narrative. Each character is given a unique arc, contributing to a broader exploration of redemption, power dynamics, and the cost of doing what is deemed “necessary” for the greater good. The film also promises to challenge traditional notions of heroism, presenting a morally gray perspective on the actions and motivations of its protagonists.

The film’s May 2, 2025, release date positions it as a major cinematic event, capping off Phase Five of the MCU. As fans eagerly await its debut, Thunderbolts has already established itself as a bold and ambitious addition to the Marvel franchise. With its stellar cast, intriguing plot, and innovative approach to superhero storytelling, Thunderbolt*s is poised to leave a lasting impression on audiences and redefine what an MCU film can be.

Synopsis : 
Gathering of super-villains and anti-heroes from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, sent on secret missions to try and redeem themselves.

Thunderbolts*
Directed by Jake Schreier
Written by Eric Pearson, Lee Sung Jin, Joanna Calo
Based on Thunderbolts by Kurt Busiek, Mark Bagley
Produced by Kevin Feige
Starring  David Harbour, Hannah John-Kamen, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Sebastian Stan, Wyatt Russell, Geraldine Viswanathan, Lewis Pullman, Olga Kurylenko, Florence Pugh
Cinematography : Andrew Droz Palermo
Edited by Harry Yoon, Angela M. Catanzaro
Production company : Marvel Studios
Distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Release date : April 30, 2024 (France), May 2, 2025 (United States)

Photos : Getty Images /  Marvel Studios