Lewis Pullman’s Thunderbolts Role as Sentry Is Winning MCU Fans Over

Lewis Pullman’s performance in Thunderbolts as Sentry has become a hot topic, with fans and critics buzzing about his standout role in Marvel Studios’ upcoming film, set to hit U.S. theaters on May 2, 2025.

Playing Robert “Bob” Reynolds, a character wrestling with immense power and a fractured psyche, Pullman’s work in Thunderbolts is earning rave reviews for its emotional depth and intensity. This article explores everything said about his portrayal, from critical acclaim to director insights, and why it’s a defining moment for the MCU.

Why Is Lewis Pullman’s Sentry So Captivating?

Critics are calling Lewis Pullman’s work in Thunderbolts a career-defining performance. His portrayal of Bob, a man grappling with amnesia and mental health struggles, balances vulnerability with the menacing power of Sentry. Rotten Tomatoes reviews praise his ability to depict “the dangers of untreated mental illness” with nuance, making him both sympathetic and formidable.

Posts on X echo this, with users like @MarvelFanatic labeling him the “heart of Thunderbolts.”

To prepare, Pullman dove deep into Sentry’s psychological complexity. His approach has resonated, with fans noting that his performance elevates the film’s exploration of trauma and redemption, setting it apart in the MCU.

How Does Pullman Bring Bob and Sentry to Life?

In Thunderbolts, Lewis Pullman first appears as Bob, a disoriented lab patient, before unveiling his superhuman Sentry identity. He told SuperHeroHype that playing Bob’s brokenness was “tougher” than embodying Sentry’s god-like strength, reflecting his own journey of stepping into the MCU.

This raw honesty shapes his performance, making Bob’s transformation into Sentry a gripping arc.

Critics agree, with Times Now calling Pullman a “revelation” for blending emotional weight with action-packed scenes. His work in Thunderbolts draws comparisons to Superman, with ScreenRant noting that Sentry’s power could “evolve even further” in future projects, hinting at a bright MCU future.

What’s the Buzz About Pullman’s Cast Chemistry?

The Thunderbolts ensemble—featuring Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, and David Harbour—has been praised for its dynamic chemistry, with Pullman often cited as a key player. DiscussingFilm’s Jacob Fisher tweeted, “Florence Pugh and Lewis Pullman shine brightest in an electric cast.” Reviewers highlight his scenes with Pugh’s Yelena Belova as emotionally grounding, with ScreenRant calling them a “powerful duo.”

Director Jake Schreier told CBR that Pullman’s collaborative spirit helped refine Sentry’s role after Steven Yeun’s departure, ensuring a seamless fit with the team. This adaptability has made his performance a cornerstone of the film’s misfit narrative.

How Will Pullman’s Sentry Shape the MCU?

Lewis Pullman’s Sentry is confirmed to return in 2026’s Avengers: Doomsday, sparking excitement about his MCU trajectory. In a GamesRadar+ interview, Pullman teased his future role but admitted Marvel’s secrecy keeps him guessing.

Fans on X, like @chrisagwrites, predict Sentry will be “pivotal,” especially after Thunderbolts teases his clash with Doctor Doom.

The Hollywood Reporter calls Pullman’s “wonderful” performance a sign of the MCU’s “creative renewal.” With Thunderbolts ranking among the top 10 best-reviewed MCU films on Rotten Tomatoes, his role is central to its success, cementing Sentry as a fan-favorite.

Why Is Sentry’s Costume a Fan Favorite?

The reveal of Pullman’s Sentry costume has ignited fan excitement. Entertainment Weekly showcased it via a Marvel Legends figure, with Pugh and Harbour amplifying the hype. The comic-accurate design, complete with a yellow cape and bold “S,” has fans raving on X, with leaked images fueling anticipation. Marvel Future Fight’s depiction further highlights its iconic look.

In Thunderbolts, Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) calls Sentry “stronger than all the Avengers combined,” and the costume underscores his dominance. This visual has become a symbol of Pullman’s rising star in the MCU.

Some Closing Thoughts on Lewis Pullman in Thunderbolts

Lewis Pullman’s performance in Thunderbolts as Sentry is a triumph, blending raw emotion with superhero spectacle. Critics and fans agree that his nuanced portrayal of Bob and Sentry steals the show, setting a high bar for his Avengers: Doomsday return.

As Thunderbolts electrifies theaters, Pullman’s role is a must-see, proving he’s a powerhouse in the MCU.

Don’t miss this thrilling chapter, and keep rooting for Sentry’s epic journey.