Unlikely Heroes Unite: The Ultimate Guide to Marvel's Thunderbolts!

Marvel Studios is taking on one of the classic Marvel Comics superteams, the Thunderbolts, originally conceived in the 90s, to explore the possibility of characters labeled as villains to truly change their ways. The heart of the Thunderbolts lies in the idea that individuals who operate outside the law may have been misguided by external forces and a lack of understanding of their own potential for doing good. This thought-provoking theme will be used to compel antiheroes like Yelena Belova (portrayed by Florence Pugh) to collaborate with villains such as Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen) in order to protect the world. The film also introduces the formidable Sentry/Void (Lewis Pullman), a significant and enigmatic character whose impact on the MCU could be substantial in the future.

Each main character in the Marvel Comics series “Thunderbolts*” has a rich backstory that shapes their character traits, driving forces, and reasons for being ideal team members in Marvel Studios’ group action story. Whether you’re planning to watch “Thunderbolts*” and want to familiarize yourself with the characters or simply wish to compare the MCU versions with their original comic book counterparts, this guide will point you towards the key comics that provide the necessary context.

Yelena Belova/White Widow Essential Storylines

Initially portrayed as Black Widow’s rival, Yelena Belova, who went through the same Red Room training as Natasha Romanoff, was initially set up as an adversary but later evolved into a nuanced antihero with a complex backstory. The comic series “Black Widow” by Devin Grayson and J.G. Jones serves as her comprehensive introduction, debuting fully after a brief appearance the year before. In this three-part miniseries, Belova claims herself to be the authentic Black Widow, harboring resentment towards Romanoff for defecting to America and seeking to outshine her. The narrative delves into the mental manipulation techniques used by the Red Room program, with Romanoff exploiting Belova in a heartless scheme that forces her to grapple with the truth that they’re both mere pieces on a geopolitical chessboard much larger than themselves.

Shadows of the Black Widow” by Greg Rucka and Igor Kordey

This gripping tale follows Yelena Belova as she embarks on her initial solo operation, seeking answers regarding her mentor’s mysterious demise. Unbeknownst to her, she is being subtly manipulated into taking up the mantle of the Black Widow. Published under Marvel’s mature MAX label, this three-part series offers a gritty exploration of Belova’s morally complex universe, skillfully combining espionage with chilling horror motifs. Rucka’s intricate character development is at its best when Belova uncovers the sinister ways in which Russian intelligence has been controlling her actions, ultimately leading to her disenchantment with government work.

The journey of Belova towards becoming the White Widow kicks off in the comic series “Tales of Suspense: Hawkeye & The Winter Soldier” issues #100-104, penned by Matthew Rosenberg and illustrated by Travel Foreman. After Natasha Romanoff’s apparent demise during Secret Empire, Belova adopts the Black Widow identity as a tribute to her late rival, focusing on tracking down Hydra remnants. In this series, she teams up with future Thunderbolts member Winter Soldier, setting the stage for their early dynamic as wary allies tied together by shared links to Romanoff. Their partnership, marked by professional admiration blended with mutual distrust, lays the foundation for comprehending their future interactions within the Thunderbolts team.

In “White Widow” by Sarah Gailey and Alessandro Miracolo, the character Belova breaks free from being identified solely as Romanoff’s shadow, forming her unique identity and code name. This series underscores Belova’s transformation from a perceived villain to an antihero, preserving the moral ambiguity that makes her an excellent candidate for the Thunderbolts team. The character development by Gailey showcases Belova’s struggle to establish her identity outside of institutional constraints, mirroring the overarching theme of the Thunderbolts storyline – former villains discovering new purposes beyond their initial roles.

Essential Yelena Belova Reading:

Black Widow #1-3 (1999) – First full appearance and rivalry with Natasha Romanoff
Black Widow: Pale Little Spider #1-3 (2002) – Solo MAX series exploring her Red Room background
Secret Avengers #1-15 (2013) – A.I.M. Council membership and apparent death
Tales of Suspense: Hawkeye & The Winter Soldier #100-104 (2017) – Return as Black Widow following Romanoff’s apparent death
White Widow #1-5 (2023) – First solo series under new identity

Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier Essential Storylines

Bucky Barnes, the Winter Soldier, is brilliantly portrayed as a character who embodies the Thunderbolts’ idea, which revolves around redemption, multiple opportunities, and the intricate path from villainy to heroism. The comic book series “Captain America” Vol. 5 #1-14 by Ed Brubaker and Steve Epting significantly changed Barnes’ character by reintroducing him as a Soviet assassin who was kept alive through cryogenic freezing and mind control. This narrative arc reveals how the sidekick thought to be dead in 1945 managed to survive, becoming a legendary figure within intelligence circles. Brubaker’s storytelling style, influenced by noir, delves into Barnes’ regaining of his identity, with issues #8-14 focusing on the resurfacing of his memories.

The first 19 issues of the “Winter Soldier” series by Ed Brubaker, Jason Latour, and Butch Guice delve into the covert operations of Barnes as a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent, following his supposed demise. The narrative primarily revolves around Barnes’ quest for redemption, as he searches for other Winter Soldiers he had trained during his brainwashed phase. This tale line deeply echoes the Thunderbolts principle, as Barnes encounters the lingering consequences of his dark past while striving to halt any further harm.

In the collection of Captain America Volume 5 issues 22-42, titled “The Death of Captain America,” we delve into Bucky Barnes’ story following Steve Rogers’ death. These comics, notably issue 34 where Bucky adopts the Captain America uniform for the first time, depict his resistance to taking up his friend’s role and his struggle to meet Rogers’ legacy while confronting his own troubled past. Later, in the Winter Soldier series penned by Ed Brubaker, Jason Latour, and Butch Guice (issues 1-19), we find Bucky acting covertly after being believed dead. The narrative revolves around him seeking redemption for his past actions by hunting down other Winter Soldiers he trained during his brainwashed phase.

The comic series Original Sin #1-8 by Jason Aaron and Mike Deodato showcases a significant change in Barnes’ character as he uncovers Nick Fury’s hidden role as Earth’s unauthorized protector against alien threats. The key moments, including the disclosure in issue #5 and the fallout in issue #8, set up Barnes to assume Fury’s position as “the man on the wall” – a relentless guardian working covertly. This narrative arc underscores Barnes’ suitability for ethically questionable missions that mainstream heroes would decline, paving the way for a fresh direction in the character that combines his tactical expertise with his complex moral compass.

Bucky Barnes: The Cosmic Defender – Winter Soldier” (Issues #1-11) by Ales Kot and Marco Rudy presents Bucky Barnes on a trippy, interstellar journey as he assumes the role of Earth’s secret protector. Accompanied by an alien friend named Daisy, Barnes navigates through space, tackling perils before they reach our planet. Despite dividing opinions among readers, this series demonstrates Bucky’s versatility as a character and broadens his horizons beyond earthly espionage on terra firma.

Essential Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier Reading:

Captain America Vol. 5 #1-14 (2005) – Winter Soldier revelation and identity recovery
Captain America Vol. 5 #22-42 (2007-2008) – “The Death of Captain America” and Barnes assuming the shield
Winter Soldier #1-19 (2012) – Solo series exploring atonement and past connections
Original Sin #1-8 (2014) – Barnes assumes Nick Fury’s “man on the wall” role
Bucky Barnes: The Winter Soldier #1-11 (2014) – Cosmic adventures as Earth’s defender

Robert “Bob” Reynolds/Sentry Essential Storylines

Title Character: The Sentry

The Sentry is a hero of Superman-like caliber, burdened with a fractured mind and a sinister alter ego called The Void. Originally conceived in 2000, Robert Reynolds was unveiled as a forgotten superhero who had been expunged from everyone’s recollections, even his own.

In the comic book series The Sentry, written by Paul Jenkins and illustrated by Jae Lee, readers are introduced to Bob Reynolds, an alcoholic man who gradually uncovers that he was once the shining beacon of Good, known as the Golden Guardian, before his memories were wiped to restrain The Void.

This five-issue miniseries, accompanied by additional one-shots such as Sentry/Spider-Man, Sentry/Hulk, Sentry/Fantastic Four, and Sentry vs. The Void, effectively lays the groundwork for Bob’s heartrending history and the duality that shapes his character.

The “New Avengers” comic series introduces Sentry back into the main Marvel Universe after the “Avengers Disassembled” storyline, where he becomes an Avenger. Issues #7-10 focus on Sentry’s battle against the Void and his struggle with mental illness, which is aided by Earth’s powerful superheroes. This part of the series highlights Sentry’s immense power and his fragile mental state. Writer Brian Michael Bendis delves into whether people who are severely damaged can truly become heroes, pondering if redemption is achievable when one’s own mind poses a threat.

Following this, the comic series “Dark Avengers” penned by Brian Michael Bendis offers vital background information about the Sentry. As a volatile tool under the command of Norman Osborn, Reynolds gradually loses his sanity throughout the storyline, ultimately metamorphosing into the Void during the “Siege” incident. Particularly significant are issues #13-16, as they portray how manipulation by power figures can drive Reynolds beyond his limit.

To conclude, Jeff Lemire and Kim Jacinto’s “The Sentry” explores Bob’s efforts to restrain the Void using a virtual reality constructed by Doctor Strange. Over five issues, this storyline plunges into Reynolds’ troubled mind as he fights his sinister alter ego while striving for a regular life. Lemire’s method of psychological horror offers valuable perspectives on Sentry’s tumultuous internal battle, which makes him an intriguing yet unpredictable team member. The series culminates in Sentry acknowledging the Void as a part of himself, rather than an external force, marking a significant development in his character.

Essential Sentry Reading:

The Sentry #1-5 (2000) – Origin story and introduction of the Void
New Avengers #7-10 (2005) – Reintegration with the Marvel Universe
Dark Avengers #1-16 (2009-2010) – Descent into darkness under Osborn’s control
Siege #1-4 (2010) – Ultimate confrontation as the Void
The Sentry #1-5 (2018) – Jeff Lemire’s psychological exploration of duality

Ghost Essential Storylines

Initially portrayed as an antagonist in Iron Man comics, Ghost has since developed into a character with deep-seated convictions driven by a distaste for corporate corruption and exploitation, rather than mere greed or thirst for power. In issues #219-221 of Iron Man, written by David Michelinie and Bob Layton, Ghost is first introduced as a corporate saboteur aiming to disrupt Stark Enterprises due to his personal grievances with their ruthless business practices. This storyline underscores Ghost’s primary motivation: a burning anger towards corporate greed fueled by his own heartbreaking past where he was a programmer whose inventions were unjustly exploited, leading to the death of someone dear to him. As a result, he harnessed his own “flux-state processors” to turn himself into an intangible being, thus setting the stage for Ghost’s ideological beliefs.

Iron Man: Unavoidable” #1-6 by Joe Casey and Frazer Irving reimagines Ghost, transforming him from a straightforward villain into an ideological vigilante for contemporary readers. This limited series places Ghost in conflict with both Iron Man and the third Spymaster, highlighting his freedom from typical villainous ties and showcasing his intricate moral compass. Casey portrays Ghost as someone who sincerely believes in anti-corporate ideals, not just using them as a cover for criminal actions, offering crucial character growth that explains why he eventually agrees to collaborate with government programs with the intention of undermining them from within.

In my latest review, I delve into the thrilling sequence of issues #128-136 from “Thunderbolts,” where we witness Ghost’s entry into the fold during the “Dark Reign” period. Here, Ghost makes a surprising decision to ally with Norman Osborn’s black ops team, but not out of loyalty – instead, he sees himself as an undercover agent, a virus that will infiltrate and ultimately dismantle the system from within.

Ghost’s methodical approach and his knack for playing the long game set him apart from other, more impulsive team members. His actions throughout these issues underscore this strategic patience, making us root for him as he navigates the treacherous waters of Osborn’s regime.

The climax of this storyline brings a shocking twist: Ghost betrays Osborn. This calculated move serves as a testament to his unwavering loyalty to his ideals, reminding us that for him, allegiance is not tied to individuals or organizations, but to a higher cause. A must-read for any comic book enthusiast!

Following this, issues #144-150 of the Thunderbolts series show Ghost’s shift towards Luke Cage’s more heroic version of the team, as part of a prison rehabilitation program. Writer Jeff Parker delves into Ghost’s struggle to fit into a squad genuinely striving for good, creating a tense dynamic between his inherent resistance to authority and his burgeoning bonds with his teammates. The “Ghost’s Story” arc in issue #151 ultimately unveils the full story of his enigmatic origin, revealing how corporate exploitation turned him from a gifted programmer into a vengeful spirit.

Essential Ghost Reading:

Iron Man #219-221 (1987) – First appearance and conflict with Tony Stark
Iron Man: Inevitable #1-6 (2005-2006) – Modernized characterization as an ideological saboteur
Thunderbolts #128-136 (2009) – Recruitment under Osborn and undercover activities
Thunderbolts #144-151 (2010) – Luke Cage’s team and full origin revealed

Alexei Shostakov/Red Guardian Essential Storylines

In my view, I find Alexei Shostakov to be the Soviet Union’s counterpart to Captain America, a character brimming with intricate layers that transition from unwavering patriotism to disillusionment. Initially acclaimed as a fearless test pilot and wedded to Natasha Romanova, Alexei’s tale is marked by manipulation, as the KGB orchestrated his demise and sculpted him into a super-soldier. The Avengers #43-44 (1967), penned by Roy Thomas and John Buscema, presents Alexei Shostakov as the Red Guardian, engaging in combat with the Avengers to safeguard a clandestine Chinese military base. This debut serves to set the stage for his primary struggle when he crosses paths with his former spouse, Natasha, who has become an American superheroine. The jolt of recognition triggers a crucial instance where Alexei selflessly saves Captain America and Black Widow from Colonel Ling’s attack, ultimately sacrificing himself in the process.

In volume 2, issue 64 of Daredevil, it’s revealed that Alexei, who was believed to be dead, has instead risen to a position of prominence in Bulgaria. The narrative primarily focuses on his plan to capture and bring Black Widow to trial for her actions as a Soviet operative, showcasing the lingering animosity and intricate history between him and his past. Writer Brian Michael Bendis depicts Alexei as an individual who is struggling with his Soviet upbringing yet asserting personal autonomy, laying the groundwork for future events that would cause him to challenge all authority systems – be they Soviet or American.

As a follower, I’m sharing my thoughts on “Widowmaker” #1-4 by Jim McCann and David Lopez, where the character Alexei transitions into the new Ronin. This storyline sees Alexei orchestrating conflict between Russia and Japan via the Dark Ocean Society with the intention of reigniting Russia’s past glory through radical methods. This limited series delves into Alexei’s post-Soviet identity turmoil, as he grapples with his country’s decline while seeking to restore its former might. The narrative reaches a climax with his apprehension by S.H.I.E.L.D., setting the stage for his future involvement in the Thunderbolts. McCann’s portrayal of Alexei presents him as a man adrift, a figure whose abilities and ideology have outlived the empire that gave birth to him, making him a fitting choice for a group of misfits like the Thunderbolts.

In the comic “Widowmakers” by Devin Grayson and Michele Bandini, Red Guardian (Alexei) teams up with Yelena Belova on a quest to retrieve data from the enigmatic Operation Snowblind. This standalone story introduces Alexei as a complex antihero struggling with self-aggrandizement regarding his past exploits. Grayson portrays him as an individual striving for relevance in a modern era that has surpassed Cold War beliefs, showcasing both his vulnerabilities and remarkable fighting abilities.

Additionally, the four-issue miniseries titled “Winter Guard” #1-4, authored by Ryan Cady and illustrated by Jan Bazaldua, has Alexei facing off against Russia’s current superhero squad. Simultaneously, he pursues the Snowblind files. This narrative deepens his complex ties with his homeland, as he becomes its adversary despite having previously represented it. The struggle against the Winter Guard prompts Alexei to reexamine his past and ponder whether his actions are indeed benefiting Russia or merely satisfying his personal desire for retribution.

Essential Red Guardian Reading:

The Avengers #43-44 (1967) – First appearance and apparent death
Daredevil Vol. 2 #64 (2004) – Return and conflict with Black Widow
Widowmaker #1-4 (2011) – Reinvention as Ronin and capture by S.H.I.E.L.D.
Widowmakers: Red Guardian and Yelena Belova (2020) – Partnership and betrayal of Yelena
Winter Guard #1-4 (2021) – Conflict with Russia’s current heroes and identity crisis

Taskmaster Essential Storylines

Initially portrayed as a villain with an exceptional ability to mimic anyone’s fighting style, known as “photographic reflexes”, Taskmaster has since developed into a multifaceted mercenary instructor and sometimes ambiguous antihero. A byproduct of his powers leads him to forget personal memories, creating a character who frequently struggles to recall his own past.

In issues #195-196 of “Avengers,” penned by David Michelinie and George Pérez, readers are given a comprehensive introduction to the character Taskmaster. During this two-part storyline, Taskmaster goes head-to-head with the Avengers, showcasing his essential skills. It is unveiled that he runs training academies for criminal enterprises, employing his extraordinary ability to photographically remember and replicate the combat styles of superheroes such as Captain America and Hawkeye. The narrative sets up Taskmaster’s entrepreneurial style of villainy, portraying him more as a hired gun than an ideologically driven adversary for the Avengers.

In the limited series #1-4 of “Taskmaster,” penned by Fred Van Lente and illustrated by Jefte Palo, we delve into the heartrending backstory of the enigmatic character known as Taskmaster. This story reveals that Tony Masters, once a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent, administered to himself a serum developed by the Nazis, which bestowed him with his extraordinary photographic reflexes, but at an immense cost – the loss of his personal memories.

The series presents Mercedes Merced, who is unveiled as Taskmaster’s wife and has covertly acted as his handler and memory repository for years. This narrative thread also sheds light on his mercenary disposition, as he finds consistency in his exceptional combat skills since his own identity remains elusive due to the loss of his memories.

In issues #32-33 of “Secret Avengers,” penned by Rick Remender and illustrated by Matteo Scalera, Taskmaster’s allegiances take a dramatic turn. Initially serving the malevolent Shadow Council, he later switches sides to become part of the Secret Avengers. This storyline delves into the intricate nature of Taskmaster’s personality, demonstrating his readiness to betray his employers when the risks escalate excessively. His enlistment in the Secret Avengers by S.H.I.E.L.D. sets the stage for his future membership in teams such as the Thunderbolts.

In issues #8-19 of the “Avengers: The Initiative” series, penned by Dan Slott and Christos Gage, Taskmaster takes on the job as a combat instructor at Camp Hammond following the Civil War. During this time, the storyline delves into his teaching abilities rather than just his fighting prowess. This narrative highlights how his exceptional skills, beneficial to both heroes and villains, are appreciated by these organizations. Despite his criminal past, Taskmaster’s role in training government-backed superheroes demonstrates a recurring trend where official entities tend to overlook his questionable history when it serves their needs.

Essential Taskmaster Reading:

Avengers #195-196 (1980) – First appearance and introduction of his abilities
Taskmaster #1-4 (2010) – Origin story revealing the cost of his powers
Secret Avengers #32-33 (2012) – Betrayal of the Shadow Council and heroic turn
Avengers: The Initiative #8-19 (2008-2009) – Role as government instructor

John Walker/U.S. Agent Essential Storylines

Instead of Steve Rogers’ optimistic view of America, John Walker represents a stern form of patriotism stemming from military service and personal loss. The Captain America comic series #323-332 by Mark Gruenwald and Paul Neary introduces John Walker as the Super-Patriot, a corporate-backed “patriotic” figure who publicly criticizes Captain America for being outdated. This storyline illustrates Walker’s key characteristics: his Southern upbringing, military background, and intricate bond with patriotism, shaped by his brother’s demise in Vietnam. Gruenwald intentionally designed Walker as the polar opposite of Steve Rogers – more aggressive, less idealistic, and ready to use harsh tactics to protect his country.

In issues #333-350 of Captain America, penned by Mark Gruenwald, I step into the shoes of the iconic Captain America as Steve Rogers steps down. This significant storyline portrays my journey to embody the epitome of American heroism while grappling with my inner rage. The narrative reaches its emotional peak when the Watchdogs brutally murder my parents upon discovering my identity, causing a devastating breakdown. These comics delve into the personal turmoil and government manipulation that would eventually mold me into U.S. Agent. My transition back to being just an agent happens in issue #354 of Captain America, where Steve Rogers reclaims the mantle. This issue introduces my new costume and role while exploring the complex emotions I harbor about being replaced.

In issues #44-57 of West Coast Avengers by John Byrne, Walker’s introduction as U.S. Agent – a black-suited counterpart to Captain America – is portrayed, where he functions as a government oversight figure. These comics delve into Walker’s challenging adaptation to team dynamics, specifically his contentious bond with Hawkeye. The narrative arc follows Walker’s transformation as he starts to carve out his own identity while retaining his characteristic assertive demeanor, all in the wake of Captain America’s shadow.

1-4 issues of the U.S. Agent comic book series, written by Mark Gruenwald and M.C. Wyman, delve into the investigation led by Walker regarding the Scourge of the Underworld, a group of vigilantes executing supervillains. This limited series showcases Walker’s internal struggle with the concept of lethal justice as he encounters an organization that, much like him, advocates for extreme measures in crime-fighting. The series reaches its climax when Walker uncovers the truth behind the Scourge program being orchestrated by a disheartened hero from the Golden Age, prompting him to reflect on the similarities between his own moral principles and those of the Scourge.

Essential John Walker/U.S. Agent Reading:

Captain America #323-332 (1986-1987) – Introduction as Super-Patriot
Captain America #333-350 (1987-1989) – Tenure as Captain America
Captain America #354 (1989) – First appearance as U.S. Agent
West Coast Avengers #44-57 (1989-1990) – Integration into the Avengers
U.S. Agent #1-4 (1993) – Solo investigation of the Scourge program

2025-04-30 05:14

Unlikely Heroes Unite: The Ultimate Guide to Marvel’s Thunderbolts!