First Thunderbolts* Reviews Claim It Is The BEST MCU Movie Since Avengers: Endgame? Critics and Fans Think So!

Is Thunderbolts* The Best MCU Movie Since Avengers: Endgame? That’s the question buzzing across the internet as Marvel Studios’ latest film, Thunderbolts*, hits theaters on May 2, 2025. With a stellar cast led by Florence Pugh and a darker, more grounded tone, this antihero team-up is earning rave reviews, with critics calling it a “return to form” for the MCU.

Posts on X and early reviews suggest it could outshine every Marvel film since Avengers: Endgame in 2019. Let’s dive into the hype, the cast, and what makes this film a potential game-changer for the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

What Makes Thunderbolts* Stand Out in the MCU?

Thunderbolts* introduces a ragtag team of antiheroes, including Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), and Red Guardian (David Harbour). Unlike the cosmic spectacle of Avengers: Endgame, this film leans into a gritty, character-driven narrative.

Critics praise its focus on mental health and moral ambiguity, with outlets like ScreenRant noting its “depth and deftness” in tackling heavy themes. The film’s emotional core, anchored by Pugh’s standout performance, sets it apart from recent MCU entries that have struggled to recapture Endgame’s magic.

The movie’s director, Jake Schreier, brings a fresh perspective, blending the raw intensity of Beef with Marvel’s signature humor. Reviews highlight the “tactile” and “refreshingly earthbound” action sequences, making it feel more like a classic MCU adventure than the multiverse-heavy stories of late. Fans on X are buzzing about the creative fight scenes and killer score, with some calling it “the best introduction of a new team” since The Avengers.

Why Are Critics Calling It a Return to Form?

With an impressive 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, Thunderbolts* ranks among the MCU’s best-reviewed films, tying with Guardians of the Galaxy and Shang-Chi. Critics argue it succeeds where recent films like Captain America: Brave New World faltered, offering a “fun ride that proves taking risks pays off.”

Unlike the convoluted multiverse arcs, Thunderbolts* focuses on character chemistry and real stakes, evoking the spirit of The Avengers or Guardians of the Galaxy.

The film’s underdog team—featuring Taskmaster, Ghost, and newcomer Bob (Lewis Pullman)—resonates with audiences. Collider calls it “a surprisingly emotional and restrained MCU film,” balancing massive stakes with intimate moments.

On X, fans praise the “meaningful self-reflections” and the way the team’s trust issues create compelling dynamics. This focus on flawed, relatable characters has critics wondering if Thunderbolts* could redefine the MCU’s future.

How Does Florence Pugh’s Yelena Steal the Show?

Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova is the heart of Thunderbolts*, with reviewers hailing her as “the strongest lead performance in an MCU film since Avengers: Endgame.” Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength makes Yelena a worthy successor to Natasha Romanoff.

SlashFilm notes that Pugh is the “emotional anchor” elevating the film beyond typical superhero fare. Fans on X echo this, with one user calling her performance “so proud” and perfect for headlining the film.

Yelena’s arc, tied to Natasha’s death in Endgame, adds depth to the story. The film explores her grief and search for purpose, making it a poignant follow-up to Black Widow. Paired with Sebastian Stan’s sardonic Bucky and David Harbour’s tragic Red Guardian, Pugh’s chemistry with the cast creates what Polygon calls “the funniest group Disney has ever assembled in the MCU.”

Could Thunderbolts* Set Up the MCU’s Future?

Speculation is rife about Thunderbolts*’s role in the MCU’s Phase 5 and beyond. With Avengers: Doomsday looming, the film’s post-credit scenes and the mysterious asterisk in its title (revealed as a punchline, per Esquire) hint at bigger things.

Fans on X are excited about its setup for “BIG things to come,” with some calling it a “game-changer” akin to 2012’s The Avengers. The introduction of Lewis Pullman’s Sentry is also a highlight, with Marvel Updates praising him as “one of the best characters recently introduced.”

The film’s darker tone and focus on antiheroes could signal a shift for the MCU, moving away from multiverse fatigue toward grounded, character-driven stories. Vulture even compares it to an A24 film, noting its “superpower-as-metaphor” approach to themes like mental health and redemption. As The Wrap reports, Thunderbolts* feels like “a starting point” for Marvel to rebuild after Endgame’s shadow.

Some Closing Thoughts: Is Thunderbolts* Really the Best Since Endgame?

So, is Thunderbolts* the best MCU movie since Avengers: Endgame? The early consensus leans yes, with critics and fans alike praising its bold risks, emotional depth, and stellar cast. While it may not topple Endgame’s epic scope, it delivers what the MCU has been missing: a fresh, human story that feels like a love letter to Marvel’s roots.

As Rolling Stone puts it, it’s “a movie that doesn’t suck” in an era of uneven MCU outings.

Grab your tickets for Thunderbolts*, in theaters May 2, 2025, and see if it lives up to the hype.

With Florence Pugh leading a team of misfits, this could be the spark the MCU needs to reignite its glory days.

What do you think—can Thunderbolts* outshine Endgame’s legacy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!