# **Runtime of Thunderbolts Compared to Avengers: Its Significance for the MCU**
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is preparing to unveil *Thunderbolts* as one of its major films in 2025. With *Captain America: Brave New World* now screening, the spotlight is firmly on *Thunderbolts*, which is set for release on May 2nd. Notably, this timeframe has typically been associated with significant *Avengers* films, including *Infinity War*, *Endgame*, and the soon-to-be-released *Secret Wars*.
What adds an interesting twist is the leaked runtime of *Thunderbolts*, indicating that this film could be just as impactful as an *Avengers* installment. But why is this important? Let’s delve into it.
—
## **Is Thunderbolts’ Runtime a Key Indicator?**
A leak from the UK theater chain Odeon reveals that *Thunderbolts* is expected to have a runtime of **2 hours and 20 minutes**. This duration aligns with other major MCU ensemble films, such as:
– *Spider-Man: No Way Home* – 2 hours, 28 minutes
– *Captain America: Civil War* – 2 hours, 27 minutes
– *Deadpool & Wolverine* – 2 hours, 8 minutes
While the length of a film doesn’t solely dictate its excellence, it does suggest the story’s complexity. Extended runtimes are generally allocated to films that feature a multitude of characters, interconnected plots, and significant progressions within the MCU.
—
## **The Asterisk in Thunderbolts**
A primary enigma surrounding *Thunderbolts* is the **asterisk (*) in its title**. Marvel incorporated this symbol after the film’s initial announcement, sparking conjecture about its implications.
The dominant theory is that **the Thunderbolts will not retain their name by the conclusion of the movie.** Instead, they may evolve into a new identity—potentially as the **New Avengers**.
This theory gains credence when examining the current landscape of the MCU:
– *Brave New World* revealed that **there isn’t an active Avengers team**.
– Sam Wilson (Captain America) is attempting to **reconstruct the Avengers**.
– The *Thunderbolts*, a collection of antiheroes and outcasts, are likely to **establish themselves as Earth’s new defenders**.
If this theory holds water, *Thunderbolts* could act as a **soft reset for the Avengers**, paving the way for the team to tackle future adversaries like **Doctor Doom** in *Avengers: Doomsday*.
—
## **Significance for the Future of the MCU**
Should *Thunderbolts* indeed serve as a precursor to the formation of a new Avengers team, it could dramatically influence the MCU:
1. **An Updated Avengers Lineup** – Without having to wait for *Avengers: The Kang Dynasty* or *Avengers: Secret Wars*, Marvel might establish a new team far sooner.
2. **Connecting Different Phases** – The MCU has faced scrutiny for its recent lack of coherence. *Thunderbolts* could emerge as a cohesive film that ties together various narratives.
3. **A New Perspective on the Avengers** – The original Avengers cast is largely absent. This film could unveil a **new wave of heroes** prepared to advance the franchise.
—
## **Concluding Thoughts**
While we won’t have definitive answers until *Thunderbolts* premieres on **May 2, 2025**, the extensive runtime and enigmatic asterisk hint that this film is poised to be more than just another chapter in the MCU. It could potentially shift the landscape, setting up a new era for the Avengers.
What are your thoughts? Could *Thunderbolts* pave the way for the New Avengers? Share your opinions!
