7 Things That Still Don’t Make Sense About Thunderbolts*

The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Thunderbolts* might not have followed the usual ensemble pattern, but it certainly showcased one of its boldest attempts. Blending elements of anti-hero teams, covert thrillers, and psychological character studies, Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts* aimed to redefine conventions, and in many instances, it managed to do so. While viewers appreciated the team dynamics and unexpected emotional twists, the film also sparked confusion at certain points.

To set the record straight, we truly enjoyed the Thunderbolts film. However, there are several aspects that continue to puzzle us…

1) Congressman Barnes…?

It’s hard to swallow the idea that Bucky Barnes, formerly known as the Winter Soldier and later a superhero, has transitioned into a U.S. Congressman. This plot twist was hinted at in Captain America: Brave New World and then explored more deeply in the early part of Thunderbolts*. The writers even presented it as a significant life change for Bucky. For a few scenes, at least. What’s most bizarre is that he’s not using this new role as a cover identity. He’s simply… a Congressman. But does he really engage in local constituency issues or attend fundraising events? Are we supposed to accept that the same man who once clocked Iron Man with a punch is now debating infrastructure bills?

Well, it appeared that Bucky wasn’t entirely convinced either. Not long after, he transformed into the Winter Soldier, clad in Terminator-style gear on his motorcycle, and swiftly took out a horde of Valentina Allegra de Fontaine’s henchmen with explosions. Since then, it seems he hasn’t returned to his ordinary line of work.

Spectators are puzzled as to whether the Congressman storyline was intended as a humorous Easter egg or a genuine character development that should be taken seriously. Some believe the Congressman angle may have been an unsuccessful joke, but this doesn’t clarify why it isn’t revisited later on. For now, we need clarification: is Bucky returning to Congress, or did he simply disappear from government work once things became odd?

2) The Brief Introduction of Sentry

When supporters of Marvel learned that Bob Reynolds, better known as Sentry, was entering the MCU, anticipation reached new heights. In the comic books, Sentry is one of Earth’s most potent beings, harboring the monstrous entity The Void within him. He’s a superhero reminiscent of Superman in power from Marvel Comics, and the movie “Thunderbolts” gradually prepares his debut.

Initially appearing as anxious character Bob, portrayed by Bill Pullman, we witness the motley crew of Ghost, Yelena, and Walker free him from Valentina’s underground hideout. However, this act ends with Bob getting wounded by Valentina’s security and being transported to her New York headquarters. Subsequently, he undergoes transformation into a superhuman entity, unleashing The Void, which requires the Thunderbolts team to intervene. In the final scene post-movie, the Thunderbolts, including Bob, are introduced as the “New Avengers.” However, Bob decides to renounce his role as Sentry at the end of it all. That’s a wrap!

This new development only deepens our curiosity. If Sentry is to be introduced into the MCU so poorly equipped after just one appearance, then won’t we continue to face the chaotic entrance of The Void and the disruptive distractions for his teammates in upcoming films? If Bob declines the mantle in this universe where he’s supposed to debut, isn’t it likely that these issues associated with The Void will persist?

3) What Were the New Avengers Doing for 14 Months?

The 14-month gap shown in the closing scene raises some intrigue. In this scene, Alexei is seen attempting to gain attention from prospective New Avengers supporters at a grocery store. Meanwhile, the rest of the group – which includes Bucky – resides in Watchtower, a building previously owned by Tony Stark and now managed by Valentina. So, we’re curious about the events that unfolded during this time period.

As a devoted cinephile, I’ve been eagerly anticipating “Kingpin’s” vow to dismantle vigilantism and the potential for collaboration with Captain America and his dynamic team. However, the film surprisingly bypasses these events, leaving us in the dark about their missions, their current state, or even if they have foes yet. In a universe known for its intricate connections, this is an unusual instance of narrative quietude.

4) Who are the Actual Avengers Now?

In keeping with our word, we’re addressing the conundrum surrounding the Captain America & Avengers branding. The Marvel Cinematic Universe has signaled a new era for the original Avengers; Tony Stark is no more, Steve Rogers has stepped down as Captain America, and the Hulk is either busy raising his family or mending broken limbs based on the week. However, it appears that the “Thunderbolts” team has inadvertently revealed that the “Avengers” trademark belongs to Sam Wilson’s Captain America, which has left him less than thrilled about Valentina’s New Avengers team name.

It implies that in this context, there are two groups of Avengers depicted, yet it’s unclear which one is the genuine team or what they’re currently working on. Additionally, the question arises as to where Sam Wilson appears in this film and if he has moved back to DC. Also, his seeming lack of concern over Valentina’s actions might be puzzling. Moreover, it’s curious why Wilson appears so preoccupied with the ownership of the name, as it seems out of character for the latest Captain America, especially given that he likely has more pressing matters to attend to.

5) Where Were Spider-Man and Daredevil? Did The Void Get Them?

This one’s a puzzle, highlighting the challenge of weaving numerous plotlines within the same city in a single universe, such as in the case of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Even though the initial events in Thunderbolts* take place away from typical MCU cities, bringing Bob to Manhattan and The Void’s control leaves one questioning where characters like our friendly neighborhood Spider-Man or Daredevil might be located.

*Note: Please replace ‘Thunderbolts’ with the actual title of the storyline if known.

Instead of radio silence, let’s call it a mysterious disappearance. No surprise appearances, no mentions, not even a brief update. Although the world may not be aware that Peter Parker is Spider-Man following the memory-wiping spell in “No Way Home”, he continues to exist within this universe. Similarly, while we don’t know Daredevil’s whereabouts as “Born Again” takes place before “Thunderbolts”, his absence remains unexplained.

The film seems to imply, in a roundabout way, “Fear not, crucial figures may choose to abstain from this ordeal.” This reminds me of the peculiar situation with the Eternals. It’s an odd position to take when attempting to create a sense of catastrophic global peril.

6) What Was the Point of Taskmaster?

This one, initially presented in “Black Widow”, garnered quite a reaction from numerous fans across the multiverse, as it was a contentious figure. The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) version opted to portray Antonia Dreykov as Taskmaster, a silent mimic soldier who was involuntarily reprogrammed. In “Thunderbolts”, fans had anticipated a journey of redemption or further character depth for her. However, what transpired was essentially a brief appearance with only a few dialogue lines, before Ghost swiftly ends her life.

From a film fan’s perspective, it’s intriguing that a character who primarily emulates the combat styles of the Avengers rarely demonstrates this ability. Her inclusion in the team doesn’t seem to influence the narrative significantly, and I can’t help but wonder if she was included merely for the purpose of her eventual elimination, as per Valentina’s plans. To be fair, Ghost could have been dispatched to eliminate her earlier, perhaps off-screen, considering they had no prior relationship to speak of. It feels almost as though they were destined for this confrontation.

It’s been disclosed that the script for the movie initially included Taskmaster throughout, but Marvel opted to exclude her storyline. This leaves some scenes featuring her in a fresh costume seemingly without purpose. Fans are optimistic that this could be a trick and Taskmaster will reappear, but given she was hit point-blank and then destroyed, it seems unlikely.

7) What’s With the Oven Timer?

This situation brings us to the strangest point in the movie: When Valentina successfully misleads all her questionable associates into her hidden facility and locks them inside her storage room, they come to understand that she intends to burn all proof of her criminal activities, along with them. At this moment, Valentina remotely initiates the incineration sequence in the room. Fortunately for the Thunderbolts, there’s a countdown timer in the room.

Let’s take a brief moment here. It seems odd that an incinerator, built for total destruction, requires a dramatic countdown clock. After all, the room isn’t intended as a spectator space for watching life slip away. Granted, perhaps it serves as a warning for those who work there, but remember, the doors are always secured before the countdown begins. So, you might wonder if Valentina’s employees could accidentally wander in at the wrong instant and find themselves in trouble, well, given her reputation, we wouldn’t rule that out.

In a manner reminiscent of typical filmmaking conventions, this scene seems overly contrived and implausible. It’s the type of thinking that places a self-destruct button in plain sight or demands an intricate 12-step password sequence to seal an airlock. This event is so unexpected that even online communities like Reddit and Hero Haven have pointed it out, implying it might be mocking spy movie tropes. However, the film presents it without a hint of irony or skepticism. Nobody laughs at it, nobody questions it. It just happens. Now we’re left pondering: was this an intentional build-up of tension in the film, or did she also aim to eliminate that clock?

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2025-07-29 19:54