Movie Review: Thunderbolts*

I watched Thunderbolts* at GSC Big IOI Damansara Mall because I really wanted to immerse myself in this return of Marvel on the big screen. With fewer Marvel projects hitting cinemas or streaming lately, the anticipation has been building—and this one definitely got me curious.

Surprisingly, this movie felt like it could almost pass as a horror film at times, and dare I say, it’s one of Marvel’s “deeper” entries. At its core, it tackles mental illness as a central theme, which is something we don’t often see in the MCU. The pacing was just right—not too fast, not too slow—and it gave room for the emotional moments to breathe.

I honestly loved all the characters in this film. Each of them brought their own backstory, trauma, and layers to the story. I fell in love with the entire team, but Yelena stood out the most for me. Her performance was raw and heartfelt, and I felt so connected to her journey.

What really took me by surprise was how emotional the movie got. I didn’t expect to cry, but I did. Not from a character death or any big twist, but from how it portrayed the experience of battling mental illness. As someone who’s gone through it, the film hit close to home. It gave me a sense of light and hope—that with the right people, you can find your way out of the darkness.

The team dynamic in Thunderbolts* also felt different. These aren’t your typical heroes; they’re not polished or perfect. They’re broken, misunderstood, and don’t exactly work like the Avengers—but somehow, they made it work. There’s something humble and genuine about a group of “nobodies” giving their all to save the world. It makes their fight feel more human.

I’m giving this movie 8/10. I did expect a bit more in terms of action, but honestly, I’m really happy with what I got. If you’re looking for a Marvel film that goes beyond the usual formula and gives you something real, Thunderbolts* might just be it.

P/S: Stay for the after-credits scene!

Rating: 8/10

Watched at: GSC Big IOI Damansara Mall (GSC Big is the equivalent of IMAX)