Los Angeles, California — Marvel’s latest film, “Thunderbolts,” has created significant buzz with its intriguing developments and a post-credits scene that reshapes the future of its cinematic universe. The film concludes with a pivotal moment, revealing why there’s an asterisk in the title and teasing the arrival of iconic characters as the MCU gears up for its next major crossover.
As the credits roll, viewers witness the surviving members of the Thunderbolts—Yelena Belova, Bob “The Sentry” Reynolds, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, Ghost, and John Walker—standing alongside CIA director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. This unexpected press conference marks a turning point for the group, who struggle for legitimacy amidst Valentina’s contentious history with the government. Facing impeachment over her secretive operations, Valentina is eager to establish a new defense initiative in the absence of the Avengers. The Thunderbolts, in a strategic move, agree to conceal Valentina’s past actions in exchange for her presenting them as the “New Avengers,” effectively rebranding themselves and setting a new course.
Comic enthusiasts may recall a similar narrative arc inspired by the “Civil War” storyline, which led to various factions within the superhero community. The shift to “New Avengers” signals a fresh beginning for the Thunderbolts, allowing them to navigate their burgeoning roles within the government’s oversight and the looming threat of multiversal tensions.
Months later, the team’s dynamics unfold at their new base, the “Watchtower,” formerly known as Avengers HQ. Clad in sleek black-and-red uniforms, they engage in light-hearted banter about Captain America, Sam Wilson, pursuing trademarks for the Avengers name. The atmosphere of camaraderie hints at potential competition against newly forming superhero groups, as questions arise about who will join Wilson’s roster, aside from his loyal sidekick Joaquin Torres, the new Falcon.
Their discussions take a serious turn upon learning of a significant crisis involving an unfamiliar ship entering Earth’s atmosphere. As a satellite image reveals a retro-futuristic rocket adorned with a prominent “4,” it becomes clear that the Fantastic Four are on the horizon, potentially making their entrance into the MCU following the events of their standalone film.
The implication of the Fantastic Four’s arrival raises critical questions about the superhero landscape. With multiple teams emerging, including the newly established New Avengers and teams likely led by Sam Wilson, the stakes are higher than ever. As the Avengers prepare for the forthcoming film “Doomsday,” due out next year, fans speculate about the roster of characters that will align against impending multiversal threats.
Anticipation grows for additional characters from various existing teams and franchises, leading to speculation on how these narratives will intertwine. The end of “The Marvels” introduces the Young Avengers, with Ms. Marvel and Hawkeye’s protégé, Kate Bishop, discussing possible collaborations. The formation of this younger team adds yet another layer to the evolving superhero landscape.
The addition of the Fantastic Four promises further intrigue, as they navigate their connection to the already crowded field of superhero teams. The complexities of their introduction could ignite conflicts with the mainstay groups while also intertwining with the cast from the longstanding X-Men series, further complicating the dynamics.
Ultimately, Marvel’s ambitious storytelling through “Thunderbolts” signals a thrilling future. As the anti-hero team integrates with established heroes and newcomers alike, the interactions and conflicts generated are bound to offer captivating narratives in the evolving cinematic universe. Fans eagerly anticipate how this reimagined landscape will unfold on screen, particularly with the upcoming crossovers set to challenge the status quo of superhero collaborations.