Thunderbolts*
- Gus Keller
- 6 days ago
- 1 min read
Thunderbolts* has heart. Despite bloated franchising pitfalls, it establishes key strengths: intimacy and substance. Importantly, the central protagonists exhibit emotional vulnerabilities. Drama is not only interwoven into the plot but often drives it. There are real mental health themes, culminating in an internal arc rather than an external confrontation. In turn, this legitimately conveys a message about processing trauma. Its stakes remain relatively small, which is unpredictable and personal. Cohesively blending comedic timing with layered vulnerability, its acting unites the more unwieldy aspects of the story. Thus, Thunderbolts*'s sincerity softens its shortcomings.
Technically, Thunderbolts* is more bland. While its tone holds together, it's messy. Though there are angles and lighting, the cinematography looks dark plus gray. Its editing maintains passable momentum (despite clunky cross cuts as well as thin resolution). Split cuts, distortions, and action enhance the soundscape. Its music is unimpactful. Aside from the interesting villain, the drab production design lacks color or aesthetic. Its cast offers nice star power, solid fit, weak diversity, and enough nepotism to mention. Although the CGI can be inconsistent, the practical stunts are satisfactory. Ultimately, Thunderbolts* is likable yet struggles to be outright loveable.
Writing: 7/10
Direction: 7/10
Cinematography: 6/10
Acting: 8/10
Editing: 6/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 6/10
Production Design: 6/10
Casting: 9/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 7.0/10
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