‘Thunderbolts’ First Reactions: Florence Pugh Is ‘Superb’ in ‘Some of Marvel’s Darkest Material to Date’

Marvel‘s “Thunderbolts” has been revealed to members of the film press, and the first reactions are calling the superhero tentpole a “bold dive into trauma, healing and redemption.” Cast member Florence Pugh, who made her Marvel debut in “Black Widow” as Yelena and is now headlining her first MCU movie after popping up in shows like “Hawkeye,” appears to be the standout of the cast. The Oscar nominee’s performance is being called “superb” and the one that “shines the brightest” among the cast.

Next Best Picture editor in chief Matt Neglia writes that “Thunderbolts” is “some of Marvel’s darkest material to date” and “very much belongs to Florence Pugh, who carries much of the dramatic weight of the movie on her back, while Lewis Pullman delivers a complex performance as a sympathetic character at war with himself. It may not be the flashiest, funniest, or strongest Marvel film, but its rough edges and imperfections somehow all feel fitting for this anti-hero team of misfits.”

Film writer Emily Murray called “Thunderbolts” easily “one of the best MCU movies in a long time,” adding: “Has so much spark, charisma, and tells a genuinely emotional story you connect with. A tear was shed. Florence Pugh in particular superb, just walks away with it.”

“Putting emphasis on the character work and practical action makes this feel like the old Marvel,” critic Brandon Norwood adds. “Wish we’d gotten this sooner. Helps that this dysfunctional team has chemistry, too.”