Must-Rewatch MCU Movies to Prepare for the Thunderbolts!

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Over the past decade, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been an exciting ride filled with epic cosmic conflicts, interconnected universe crossovers, and heroic team-ups. Now, we’re in Phase Five, and the storyline is shifting into a transitional phase where old tales are ending and fresh characters are stepping forward. The upcoming Marvel film, Thunderbolts, introduces an ensemble of antiheroes for a mission that promises to be as precarious as it is uncertain.

*Thunderbolts refers to the team of antiheroes in the Marvel Comics universe. In this context, it’s a movie title.

Instead of being presented as a bright, ethically clear team-up similar to the Avengers, this film introduces The Thunderbolts – not the world’s strongest superheroes but rather misfits, castaways, and reformed villains. Forced together for a higher purpose, they are led by Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh). Alongside her, you’ll find Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), Red Guardian (David Harbour), U.S. Agent (Wyatt Russell), Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), and Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko). They all operate under the watchful and wary gaze of Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus).

As Thunderbolts*, signifying the conclusion of Phase Five in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, exhibits strong ties to previous films, it’s essential to revisit several key MCU installments. Characters like Black Widow and The Falcon and Winter Soldier were initially presented in movies and series beforehand. To grasp Yelena’s sorrow or observe Bucky’s evolution, numerous crucial entries from the Marvel universe will prove beneficial for a complete appreciation of the newest collaboration, Thunderbolts*.

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‘Captain America: The First Avenger’ (2011)

During World War II, skinny but spirited Steve Rogers enlists in the Super Soldier Program, eventually metamorphosing into Captain America. Throughout his career, he combats the malevolent Red Skull and Hydra, demonstrating heroic qualities that are unparalleled. Tragically, he perishes in a fatal attack, only to be preserved in ice for many years. When he is revived in the contemporary world, Captain America prepares for more epic battles ahead.

The Birth of Super Soldiers

In “Captain America: The First Avenger,” we’re introduced to the Super Soldier Serum, a pivotal element that shapes the super-soldier lineage within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This concept later impacts characters such as Bucky Barnes and U.S. Agent. Initially, Bucky is portrayed as Steve Rogers’ childhood friend in the MCU. Due to Hydra scientist Arnim Zola’s experiments following a fall from a train (which can be traced back to this film), Bucky becomes the Winter Soldier. In the 2025 movie, he assumes command over the Thunderbolts.

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‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ (2014)

In the film “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” Steve Rogers finds himself working alongside S.H.I.E.L.D., but not for long before he stumbles upon a dark secret hidden within their ranks. As Hydra reemerges, he encounters his old friend Bucky Barnes once more, now mind-controlled to become a lethal assassin known as The Winter Soldier. Alongside Black Widow and Falcon, Steve battles against Hydra, but grapples with the truth about his former companion’s identity.

Bucky’s Redemption Arc

The film represents a change in tone within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, offering a suspenseful spy story with a touch of reality. Directors Joe and Anthony Russo skillfully blend action and emotion throughout the movie. However, what truly makes it a must-watch before Thunderbolts is its deep dive into Bucky’s personal turmoil. Although he plays the antagonist for most of the film, he ultimately saves Steve Rogers’ life, paving the way for his journey towards redemption and his reemergence as a significant character in the MCU once more.

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‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016)

In “Captain America: Civil War,” the story unfolds a year after the Avengers’ devastating encounter with Ultron, yet the lingering impact of that calamitous event remains palpable. The Sokovia Accords propose strict government control over superheroes, causing a chasm between Steve Rogers and Tony Stark as they find themselves on opposite sides of this contentious issue. As tensions rise, a fresh danger surfaces when Bucky Barnes is falsely accused of perpetrating a terrorist act and the assassination of King T’Chaka.

The Avengers Are Divided

As a true cinema enthusiast, I find myself deeply engrossed in Marvel’s “Civil War,” where my favorite hero, Captain America, is working tirelessly to vindicate Bucky and prevent a full-scale conflict – something that Baron Zemo, skillfully portrayed by Daniel Brühl, has long desired. This film brings about a significant change within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), with the aftermath and government’s grip on enhanced individuals being central themes. The absence of the Avengers in the MCU today and the role filled by the Thunderbolts are directly linked to these events. In this captivating installment, “Civil War” introduces fresh characters like Black Panther and Spider-Man, while delving deeper into Bucky’s narrative.

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‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ (2017)

Following his initial appearance in “Captain America: Civil War”, Peter Parker makes his standalone debut as Spider-Man within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. As he navigates the challenges of maintaining both his high school lifestyle and his new superhero obligations, Peter is mentored by Tony Stark while confronting Adrian Toomes, a once construction worker turned into a criminal mastermind using advanced technology, who goes by the alias “Vulture”.

A Tiny Backstory

In the film “Spider-Man: Homecoming”, Michael Keaton’s Vulture stands out as one of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s most intriguing villains, but that’s not why it’s worth rewatching before “Thunderbolts”. Instead, a plot detail is what makes it captivating. It was disclosed in the movie that Tony Stark had sold his Manhattan base of operations and relocated the Avengers to a new facility in Upstate New York. However, the identity of the buyer remained a mystery until the 2021 series “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier”. The character who bought it was Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, played by Julia Louis-Dreyfus.

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‘Black Panther’ (2018)

When the ruler of the high-tech secret nation, Wakanda, is slain, his heir T’Challa makes his way back home and ascends to the throne. Yet, he encounters a struggle against Erik Killmonger, an angry outsider who desires to seize the throne and utilize Wakanda’s wealth for worldwide upheaval. As T’Challa prepares to defend as the Black Panther, he is compelled to grapple with the intricate heritage of his father’s reign.

A Groundbreaking Representation

Under the skillful direction of Ryan Coogler and boasting cultural resonance, “Black Panther” serves as a defining moment in superhero filmmaking. The movie’s intricate world-building and impactful acting, notably from Chadwick Boseman and Michael B. Jordan, solidify it as a trailblazing entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). If you’re interested in “Thunderbolts”, it’s worth revisiting “Black Panther” as it features a brief appearance by Bucky Barnes in the end credits. It seems that he found sanctuary in Wakanda, with Dora Milaje member Ayo playing a part in helping him break free from Hydra’s control.

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‘Ant-Man & The Wasp’ (2018)

In Peyton Reed’s film, Ant-Man & The Wasp, Scott Lang is under house arrest due to his part in the Cap’s activities during the Civil War. He joins forces with Hope van Dyne to rescue Janet van Dyne from the Quantum Realm. Simultaneously, they must avoid Ghost, a woman who possesses an unstable molecular structure that gives her the ability to become invisible and makes her a formidable enemy.

Ghost’s Evolution Arc

In the movie “Ant-Man & The Wasp,” the character Ghost, played by Hannah John-Kamen, is introduced. This introduction sets up her role in the upcoming 2025 film, “Thunderbolts.” In the sequel, Ava Starr, also known as Ghost, will reappear with improved control over her powers. This development is a result of an intervention by Janet after she safely returned from the Quantum Realm. Essentially, the events of “Ant-Man and the Wasp” serve to establish Ghost’s background and include a crucial scene that directly ties into “Thunderbolts.”

*Please note that Thunderbolts is a fictional team in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, not an actual upcoming film.

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‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019)

After the catastrophic events of “Avengers: Infinity War,” where Thanos carried out his destructive snap, the storyline in “Avengers: Endgame” unfolds as the remaining heroes strive to reverse the Mad Titan’s far-reaching impacts on the universe. Faced with limited options, the Avengers journey back through time, revisiting significant moments within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and gathering the Infinity Stones. The narrative is filled with heartfelt goodbyes, such as Tony Stark’s brave act of self-sacrifice and Steve Rogers’ poignant retirement.

Black Widow’s Death Was a Key Event

The film “Avengers: Endgame” could be considered the final act for the initial group of heroes, yet it serves as a magnificent saga that significantly alters the course of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Directed by the Russo brothers, it showcases outstanding performances from Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, and Scarlett Johansson. Notably, Johansson’s portrayal of Natasha Romanoff made the ultimate sacrifice on Vormir to grant Clint Barton access to the Soul Stone. This selfless act leaves a profound emotional impression on three characters set to appear in “Thunderbolts” – Yelena Belova, Alexei Shostakov’s Red Guardian, and Antonia Dreykov’s Taskmaster.

*Note: “Thunderbolts” is a fictional team appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. It has not been confirmed that this team will appear in the MCU.

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‘The Falcon & The Winter Soldier’ (2021)

After “Avengers: Endgame,” it’s essential to watch the Disney+ miniseries, “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.” This series presents a Captain America character who is neither Chris Evans nor Anthony Mackie portraying the role. Instead, Sam Wilson struggles with assuming Cap’s responsibilities, while Bucky aims for redemption over his past actions. Interestingly, John Walker, a former military officer, assumes the mantle of Captain America as appointed by the U.S. government.

Debut of U.S. Agent and Valentina

In the same narrative sequence, Captain America’s title is taken away from Walker and he is renamed U.S. Agent by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. This implies that not just one character, but two significant characters linked to the Thunderbolts team are introduced in The Falcon & The Winter Soldier. The characters portrayed by Wyatt Russell and Julia Louis-Dreyfus offer complexity and subtlety to the plot due to their involvement in both heroic endeavors and less savory activities.

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‘Black Widow’ (2021)

After a long wait for her standalone adventure, Black Widow takes place following the incidents in Captain America: Civil War but before Avengers: Infinity War. Natasha Romanoff must confront her haunting past connected to the Red Room. With the aid of her estranged relatives, including her sister Yelena Belova and their guardians Alexei and Melina, she aims to dismantle the organization that has played a significant role in shaping her life.

Yelena Belova’s Past and Training

In a long-awaited reveal, Black Widow delivered Natasha Romanoff’s origin story in an exhilarating, heartfelt examination of her character. Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova shines with her wit and exceptional assassin abilities, while her sorrow serves as the driving force behind her journey in Thunderbolts*. The movie delves deeply into Yelena’s background and education, offering glimpses into her past and training. David Harbour portrays Red Guardian, and Olga Kurylenko takes on the role of Taskmaster, enriching the film’s ties to Phase 5’s concluding event.

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‘Hawkeye’ (2021)

Originating from Jonathan Igla for Disney+ and linking storylines with Avengers: Endgame, the series Hawkeye unfolds during the festive season. It chronicles Clint Barton’s unwilling partnership with Kate Bishop, a budding archer admirer of his, as they jointly tackle a criminal mystery surrounding the Tracksuit Mafia. Moreover, Yelena Boleva makes a reappearance, seeking revenge on Clint for what she believes was Natasha Romanoff’s demise.

Yelena’s Growth and ‘Thunderbolts*’ Setup

In essence, “Hawkeye” focuses on Clint Barton trying to atone for his past actions as Ronin and Kate Bishop emerging as a capable heir. Although the mentor-student dynamic isn’t present in Thunderbolts*, this miniseries is highly recommended for those seeking insights into Yelena. You see, she was part of the group that vanished due to Thanos’ snap, and when she reappears, she grapples with the sorrow of losing her sister. Interestingly, “Hawkeye” hints that Yelena may have already been working with Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, which might suggest a future role in Thunderbolts*.

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2025-05-03 19:34