Thunderbolts* Post-Credits Scene: How It Prepares Us for Avengers: Doomsday
Marvel Studios has once again surprised audiences with the debut of Thunderbolts*, a film that not only shifts the focus of the MCU’s Multiverse Saga but also paves the way for the eagerly awaited Avengers: Doomsday. A highlight of Thunderbolts* is its unprecedented post-credits scene — a key moment filmed during the production of Avengers: Doomsday, serving as an essential link between the two movies.
Here’s a summary of the significance of this post-credits scene and its impact on the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s future.
The Asterisk Explained: Transitioning from Thunderbolts to New Avengers
The name Thunderbolts* has intrigued fans since its announcement, with the asterisk inciting speculation about its hidden significance. As unveiled in the film, the asterisk denotes a temporary title. At the conclusion of the movie, the Thunderbolts team is transformed into the New Avengers — a rebranding that not only provides the group with a renewed identity but also connects them to the broader Avengers storyline.
This rebranding goes beyond mere symbolism. It carries substantial ramifications for the MCU, particularly as Sam Wilson (a.k.a. Captain America) concurrently assembles his own team of New Avengers, hinting at a potential rivalry over the team’s name and leadership.
The Post-Credits Scene: A Transformative Three Minutes
Expectations for post-credits scenes have become a staple among Marvel fans, but Thunderbolts* elevates the standard with a three-minute segment — the longest in MCU history. This extended scene accomplishes several objectives:
1. Establishing the New Avengers Headquarters:
Set in the legendary Watch Tower (formerly known as Avengers Tower), the scene features the newly formed New Avengers — including Yelena Belova, Red Guardian, and The Sentry — deliberating on their upcoming plans as a team.
2. Introducing a Legal Conflict:
The team discovers that Sam Wilson has secured a trademark for the “New Avengers” name, leading to a humorous yet potentially serious dispute regarding branding and legitimacy.
3. Hinting at the Fantastic Four:
The scene culminates with the detection of a spacecraft entering Earth’s orbit — the same vessel featured in The Fantastic Four trailers. This confirms the arrival of the Fantastic Four from another dimension, setting up a multiversal collaboration in anticipation of Doomsday.
Filmed During Avengers: Doomsday Production
What makes this post-credits scene particularly noteworthy is that it was filmed during the production of Avengers: Doomsday. Thunderbolts* director Jake Schreier shared that the scene was conceptualized late in the production timeline and shot just weeks prior to Thunderbolts*’s release. Although Schreier was present on the set, the scene was directed by another individual — likely a member of the Doomsday production crew.
This behind-the-scenes insight underscores Marvel’s shifting strategy: incorporating post-credits scenes more fluidly into the overall narrative, using them as connective threads between films rather than isolated teases.
Where Is Doctor Doom?
A conspicuous absence from Thunderbolts* — and the Multiverse Saga overall — is Doctor Doom. With Kang the Conqueror sidelined, it is anticipated that Doom will emerge as the main villain in Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars. However, Marvel has remained tight-lipped regarding his introduction.
The lack of Doom in Thunderbolts* suggests that Marvel is reserving his debut for The Fantastic Four or potentially for Doomsday itself. This gradual build-up is reminiscent of the early stages of the Infinity Saga, where Thanos was teased across multiple films before stepping into the spotlight.
Why This Matters for the MCU
Thunderbolts* and its post-credits scene signify a critical juncture for the MCU:
– It seamlessly transitions the Thunderbolts into the New Avengers.
– It brings in interdimensional aspects that will play a vital role in Doomsday.
– It establishes internal strife within the Avengers ranks, enriching future plots.
– It bridges connections between varied characters and teams, reinforcing the shared universe concept.
Final Thoughts
The Thunderbolts* post-credits scene transcends being merely a fan-favorite bonus — it acts as a strategic narrative tool propelling the MCU forward. By intertwining humor, character growth, and multiversal excitement, Marvel has created a scene that not only thrills fans but also establishes the foundation for the monumental encounters that lie ahead in Avengers: Doomsday.
As we look forward to the arrival of The Fantastic Four and the eventual confrontation with Doctor Doom, one truth remains clear: the MCU is back on course, and Thunderbolts* is the spark for its upcoming grand chapter.
