Why Is Thunderbolts* Flopping? Marvel’s Critically Acclaimed Film Struggles at the Box Office
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Despite glowing reviews and a star-studded cast, Marvel’s Thunderbolts* has failed to ignite the box office as expected. With a worldwide gross of $359,308,950, the film is underperforming relative to its $180 million production budget and $100 million marketing costs.
Why is Thunderbolts* flopping despite an 88% Rotten Tomatoes score and an A- CinemaScore? This article dives into the film’s box office breakdown, analyzes its performance, and speculates on the reasons behind its lackluster financial run.
What Are the Box Office Numbers for Thunderbolts*?
As of May 31, 2025, Thunderbolts* has grossed $176,310,746 domestically (49.1% of its total) and $182,998,204 internationally (50.9%), totaling $359,308,950 worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo.
The film opened with $76 million domestically and $162.1 million globally, a modest start compared to Marvel’s historical May releases like Avengers: Endgame or Deadpool & Wolverine ($211 million domestic opening). Its second weekend saw a $33.1 million domestic haul, a 55.5% drop, which is better than Captain America: Brave New World’s 68% plunge but still signals challenges in maintaining momentum.
Internationally, the film performed strongly in Latin America, the UK ($7.7 million opening), and China ($10.4 million), but it lagged in markets like Korea and Japan, where it was outpaced by local titles and A Minecraft Movie. The film’s $11.5 million in domestic previews was comparable to Eternals ($9.5 million) but trailed Captain America: Brave New World ($88.8 million opening).
How Does Thunderbolts* Compare to Other MCU Films?
Thunderbolts*’ performance is middling among MCU films. Its $76 million domestic opening is the second-lowest for a May MCU release, only beating Thor’s $65.7 million. It trails Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings ($75.3 million opening, $432 million worldwide) and Eternals ($71.2 million opening, $401.7 million worldwide).
The film has already surpassed The Marvels’ entire domestic run ($84.5 million) and is projected to outgross Eternals domestically ($164.8 million final). However, it’s pacing $12.7 million behind Captain America: Brave New World after 10 days, though analysts suggest it could reach $200 million domestically with strong holds.
Globally, Thunderbolts* is far from the MCU’s billion-dollar club, needing $450 million to break even (2.5 times its production budget). Current projections estimate a $400–$409 million global finish, short of profitability but better than The Marvels ($206.1 million) or Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania ($476 million).
Its 2.3x multiplier (total gross divided by opening weekend) is stronger than Brave New World’s 2.3x but lags behind Guardians of the Galaxy or Deadpool & Wolverine.
Why Is Thunderbolts* Flopping Despite Critical Acclaim?
Despite its 88% Rotten Tomatoes score and praise for Florence Pugh’s performance and Jake Schreier’s direction, Thunderbolts* is struggling. Several factors may explain this disconnect:
Lesser-Known Characters: Unlike Deadpool & Wolverine or Thor, Thunderbolts* features antiheroes like Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, and Red Guardian, who lack the mainstream draw of Iron Man or Spider-Man. Casual audiences may not feel compelled to see a film about “B-list” heroes.
MCU Fatigue and Recent Failures: The MCU’s Multiverse Saga has been inconsistent, with flops like The Marvels and Captain America: Brave New World (48% Rotten Tomatoes) eroding audience trust. Even with positive reviews, fans may be hesitant after recent disappointments.
Strong Competition: Thunderbolts* faces stiff competition from Sinners ($236.7 million worldwide) and A Minecraft Movie ($873.4 million globally), both holding strong in their later weeks. Sinners’ 28% third-weekend drop and Minecraft’s family appeal have siphoned audiences.
Marketing Missteps: Marvel’s decision to rebrand Thunderbolts* as The New Avengers on billboards may have confused audiences, diluting brand recognition. Additionally, the $75 million promotional campaign, while robust, may not have resonated as strongly as Deadpool & Wolverine’s.
Economic and Seasonal Factors: High ticket prices and a crowded May schedule, with upcoming releases like Final Destination: Bloodlines, may have limited repeat viewings. The summer season’s start also competes with outdoor activities in key markets like the UK.
What Are the Bright Spots for Thunderbolts*?
Despite its challenges, Thunderbolts* has strengths. Its 55.5% second-weekend drop is among the MCU’s better holds, outperforming Shang-Chi (54%) and far better than Brave New World (68%).
The A- CinemaScore and 95% Rotten Tomatoes audience score suggest strong word-of-mouth, which could drive longevity, especially with Memorial Day boosting theater attendance.
The film’s focus on grounded, emotional storytelling and mental health themes has resonated, potentially setting up sequels or Avengers: Doomsday.
Analysts predict a domestic finish near $200 million and a global total of $400–$409 million. While not a blockbuster, this would outpace The Marvels and Eternals, reinforcing Marvel’s ability to take risks with new characters.
The film’s international performance, particularly in Latin America, shows global appeal, and its post-credits scenes teasing Fantastic Four and Avengers: Doomsday keep it relevant in the MCU’s narrative.
What’s Next for Thunderbolts* and the MCU?
Thunderbolts* is a pivotal moment for Marvel. Its critical success signals a return to quality storytelling, but its box office struggles highlight the challenges of rebuilding audience trust. Marvel’s upcoming Fantastic Four: First Steps (July 25, 2025) and DC’s Superman (July 11, 2025) will test whether superhero fatigue is waning.
For Thunderbolts*, the Memorial Day weekend and a relatively clear runway until Final Destination: Bloodlines (May 16) offer hope for incremental gains.
Some Closing Thoughts:
In conclusion, Thunderbolts’ underperformance stems from a mix of lesser-known characters, MCU fatigue, and fierce competition, despite its critical acclaim.
While it won’t reach the heights of Avengers: Endgame, its strong holds and positive reception suggest it’s not a flop but a modest reset for Marvel.
As the summer box office heats up, Thunderbolts could still find its footing and pave the way for a revitalized MCU.
