Thunderbolts Reveals MCU’s Rules on Drug References Despite Changing Franchise

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Over time, Marvel Studios has perfected its movie-making approach into a precise art with well-defined limits, demonstrating that the “Marvel Way” remains relevant even amidst an isolated drug reference. The Marvel Cinematic Universe we know today is significantly different from the one established in 2008. While familiar faces still grace our screens and the universe maintains an overarching connection, the studios behind these films have become increasingly meticulous about preserving their brand and identity, a development that has been quite noticeable since its inception.

To illustrate, when “Iron Man” and “The Incredible Hulk” were released in 2008, these films had a more somber mood compared to many subsequent ones because of their independent production style. They also featured scenes involving alcohol, tobacco, cigars, and pipes. Since then, Marvel Studios was acquired by Disney, resulting in the movies being granted some creative liberty while adhering to certain restrictions. Specifically, the films are not allowed to portray drug use.

Thunderbolts* Gives Bob His Comic History With Drug Addiction

Bob Has A History Of Drug Abuse

In the comic books, the character Sentry is initially portrayed as struggling with a severe drug addiction. This aspect significantly influences the character’s psychological state and is integral to his storyline. To convey this in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), they hint at Bob’s past as a drug user. In the film, it’s shown that Bob openly admits to turning to drugs during difficult periods of his life, which resulted in aimless wandering and further turmoil. This drug use can be traced back to an unhappy family environment and abuse he experienced at home.

It’s fortunate that Disney didn’t prevent references to Bob Reynolds’ past, which enhances his character development in the MCU and somewhat mirrors his comic book persona, even though there have been alterations in his introduction and the revelation about Sentry and the Void being the same person. Moreover, the way *Thunderbolts* incorporated this detail underscores Marvel’s careful handling of complex themes.

Thunderbolts*’ Drug Comments Still Follow A Rule Shawn Levy Comments On With Deadpool & Wolverine

Deadpool & Wolverine Had To Abide By Marvel’s Rules When Joining The MCU

2024 found me, a die-hard movie enthusiast, witnessing another Marvel hero’s grand entrance into the MCU. But this wasn’t your average superhero; Wade Wilson, the man behind the mask of Deadpool, had quite a unique backstory. His previous films painted him as a character who lived life on his own terms and indulged in some, let’s say, intense recreational activities.

In the first two Deadpool movies, it was no surprise to see our unconventional anti-hero partaking in such activities frequently. However, when it came to transitioning Deadpool into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, director Shawn Levy received some guidance and insights on where exactly the studio wanted to set those boundaries for Deadpool’s indulgences. He shared these fascinating tidbits during an interview on the Happy Sad Confused podcast.

In the beginning, the rule given to us by Feige was clear: no portrayal of drug use, specifically cocaine. This was indeed accurate. Early on in the production, Kevin expressed a desire for an authentic Deadpool movie, and we agreed that perhaps we could tone down the drug-related scenes involving Al and Wade. We then promptly incorporated this into one of our first jokes, making a reference to Feige’s request for no cocaine.

It appears that Marvel Studios and Disney prefer not to depict real-life drug use in their films, but they do allow subtle references to it for comedic effect. This is evident in the case of Deadpool, a character who often breaks the fourth wall, as he made it clear early on in the movie why this film would steer away from the drug aspect found in earlier movies, using humor to explain the shift.

Why Thunderbolts* Referencing Meth But Having No Cocaine Use Does Make Sense

Thunderbolts* Closely Follows The Rules And Regulations As Set Out By Marvel

In the film Thunderbolts, scenes related to drug abuse or humor derived from such topics are absent. However, the script permits a scene that underscores a troubled episode in Bob’s history. Remarkably, this is depicted through a sequence where a group of unlikely heroes encounter a character portraying Bob during his problematic phase, dressed as a chicken and waving a sign. These scenes don’t violate the code of conduct regarding drug abuse depictions, as they merely reference this period and show its negative consequences.

In contrast to how earlier Deadpool films might humorously portray drug abuse, this movie presents it as detrimental and negative, adhering to Marvel Studios’ guidelines while staying true to Bob Reynolds’ comic book backstory of addiction and struggles. This flexibility results in a more engaging, captivating narrative that enhances both movies.

Thunderbolts* Not Referencing Drug Use Would Have Majorly Impacted Sentry’s Story

Sentry’s Past Is Part Of What Makes The Character Work

Bob Reynolds, despite being compared to a powerhouse equal to a million exploding suns, is a deeply flawed character grappling with inner turmoil. This imperfection adds depth and intrigue to his character, making him more compelling than a one-dimensional superhero who lacks conflict or weakness.

Instead, Sentry’s most significant conflicts stem from his internal battles with depression, anxiety, feelings of worthlessness, and emptiness. Unlike typical superheroes, Bob possesses powers that surpass those of most others in the Marvel universe. However, this extraordinary ability comes at a cost as Bob carries more emotional baggage than most heroes, which influences every aspect of his life. The source of his greatest rivalry originates from this darkness, leading to the creation of the Void in various Marvel Comics tales. In summary, it will be intriguing to see where the character’s journey leads after Thunderbolts.

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2025-05-18 06:09