Marvel Studios is shaking up its usual blockbuster formula with Thunderbolts, a film that lead star Florence Pugh describes as a “badass indie” and “A24-feeling assassin movie.”
A Low-Budget Marvel?
According to reports, Thunderbolts is Marvel’s least expensive film, leading many to compare it to low-budget indie projects rather than the studio’s usual CGI-heavy spectacles. In response, Marvel has embraced the comparison, promoting Thunderbolts as “absolute cinema”—a cheeky nod to past criticism from legendary director Martin Scorsese.
Star-Studded Cast with Indie Cred
The film reunites several Marvel sidekicks, including:
- Florence Pugh (Yelena Belova)
- Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes)
- Wyatt Russell (John Walker / U.S. Agent)
- David Harbour (Red Guardian)
- Hannah John-Kamen (Ghost)
- Olga Kurylenko (Taskmaster)
- Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Valentina Allegra de Fontaine)
Marvel is also hyping up its indie credentials by showcasing its crew’s A24 connections:
🎬 Director Jake Schreier (Beef)
🎥 Cinematographer of The Green Knight
✂️ Editor of Minari
📝 Writers from Beef
Florence Pugh & Director Speak on the Film’s Darker Tone
In an interview with Empire, Pugh doubled down on Thunderbolts’ indie inspirations, saying:
💬 “It ended up becoming this quite badass indie, A24-feeling assassin movie with Marvel superheroes.”
Meanwhile, director Jake Schreier revealed that Marvel encouraged him to do “something different”, resulting in a film that carries:
💀 “An emotional darkness that can only be achieved by a superpowered assassin with a metal arm.”
When & Where to Watch
📅 Release Date: July 25, 2025
🎥 Studio: Marvel Studios
📍 Part of: Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU)
With a grittier tone, smaller budget, and strong indie influences, Thunderbolts might be one of the most unique Marvel films yet. Will it succeed in reviving audience interest in the MCU? Only time will tell.