Thunderbolts*

Even Earth’s mightiest heroes struggle with mental health and that’s okay! Dare I say this is the best Marvel movie since Endgame? Thunderbolts is exactly what the MCU needed. It breaks the traditional Marvel formula and delivers a deep, well rounded, and exciting film that tackles subjects previously only lightly touched on (looking at you Love & Thunder!) Visually, it’s stunning!! From the color grading to the actual built sets, everything helps the movie feel grounded. And of course, Florence Pugh delivers. The director said “take five” and Florence heard “save lives” because she is a true master class at what she does. Lewis Pullman is another standout! I had only seen him in one film before, so I wasn’t too familiar with his game, but he brought me to tears multiple times in this one. He didn’t even need lines to do so.. the pure anguish and sadness on his face had me choked up. That said, the story (and the way Sentry’s journey is woven into it) is where the movie truly shines. From Bob’s depression and anxiety to the team’s overwhelming loneliness and discontent with who they are, the sadness radiates off the screen. And yet, by the end, when they begin to overcome it together, you feel fulfilled. All in all, Thunderbolts is the kind of film I’m afraid we may never see again from the MCU.. but with the reception it’s getting, I’m damn sure hoping it’s not the last we see of this sort of art and true unique craft within the Marvel world.