The New Avengers and the Thunderbolts*: An Exciting New Era in the MCU
Marvel Studios has once more reconfigured the landscape of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) with the unveiling of Thunderbolts*, a film that not only reshapes the eponymous anti-hero group but also subtly presents the inaugural Avengers movie of the Multiverse Saga: The New Avengers. In an unexpected development, Marvel disclosed the film’s actual title mere days following its cinematic release, hinting at a fresh trajectory for Earth’s mightiest champions and paving the way for future MCU projects.
The Thunderbolts* Revelation: Transitioning from Anti-Heroes to Avengers
Initially promoted as a gritty ensemble feature spotlighting morally complex figures such as Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), and John Walker (Wyatt Russell), Thunderbolts* carried an asterisk that suggested deeper implications. By the conclusion of the film, it becomes apparent that these characters undergo a rebranding as the New Avengers, a strategy devised by CIA chief Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) to maintain her reputation and evade legal repercussions.
This rebranding is not merely a clever plot twist; it represents a tactical shift for the MCU. With the original Avengers mostly disbanded or no longer alive, the franchise necessitated a new assembly to uphold the legacy. Thunderbolts* fulfills this need, introducing a team that deviates significantly from the norm.
The Post-Credits Scene: Setting the Stage for What’s Ahead
The post-credits sequence occurs 14 months later, depicting the New Avengers functioning from the revamped Avengers Tower. However, their credibility is quickly put into doubt. Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie), the fresh Captain America, is shown to be establishing his own squad and has registered the “New Avengers” title, igniting a legal conflict that highlights the public’s skepticism regarding the Thunderbolts’ newfound status.
This scene not only injects humor but also encapsulates the audience’s mixed responses. Marvel adroitly employs in-universe media stories and blog entries to reflect real-world hesitations about whether these characters genuinely merit the Avengers title.
The Abandoned Post-Credits Scene: A Missed Chance?
Director Jake Schreier recently shared that an alternative post-credits scene was conceived but ultimately abandoned. This scene would have included a guinea pig—saved earlier in the film by Yelena—traversing the Void, a mysterious dimension pivotal to the movie’s climax. Every team member had faced their own traumas within the Void, and the guinea pig’s adventure would have provided a whimsical yet meaningful conclusion.
Although the final post-credits scene proved impactful, the discarded version would have presented a unique viewpoint on the Void and concluded a quirky subplot in an unforgettable manner. Fans are now eagerly requesting to see this omitted scene, which might be offered as exclusive content in the future.
The Significance of The New Avengers
Thunderbolts*—or more accurately, The New Avengers—represents a crucial turning point in the MCU. It addresses a persistent critique regarding the franchise’s neglect of the Avengers in the Multiverse Saga. By introducing a new ensemble, Marvel is not only bridging this gap but also setting the foundation for forthcoming films like The Fantastic Four and Avengers: Doomsday.
The film delves into themes of redemption, identity, and public perception, positioning it as one of the more reflective entries in the recent MCU timeline. It questions the essence of heroism and compels both characters and viewers to reevaluate what it signifies to be an Avenger.
What Lies Ahead?
With the Fantastic Four making their entrance in the concluding scenes of the film, and Doctor Doom poised in the background, the MCU is clearly preparing for a monumental crossover event. The New Avengers are expected to take a significant role in this narrative, regardless of their readiness.
Additionally, Sam Wilson’s team and the legal skirmish over the Avengers title introduce another layer of complexity. Will the MCU showcase multiple Avengers teams? Is a confrontation or partnership between them on the horizon?
Final Reflections
Thunderbolts* might have commenced as a narrative about a motley crew of outcasts, but it culminated in a daring reimagining of the Avengers legacy. Through its inventive storytelling, unforeseen turns, and profound character growth, The New Avengers stands as a crucial chapter in the MCU’s Multiverse Saga—and one that fans will cherish for a long time.
Regardless of opinions on the new team’s qualifications, one fact remains: the MCU is evolving, and the next generation of heroes is already making their mark.
The New Avengers is currently showing in theaters. Keep an eye out for further updates as Marvel continues to broaden its cinematic universe.
