MCU Phase 5 Redeemed Two of Marvel’s Most Disappointing Villains

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The Marvel Cinematic Universe is constantly adding new heroes and villains, but not all of them have been fully developed or resonated with audiences. Now, as Marvel’s Phase 5 progresses, two lesser-known villains, Ghost and U.S. Agent, are getting a second chance. While they initially seemed underutilized, the upcoming *Thunderbolts* movie is giving them a revamped storyline and a chance to shine, building on their existing potential.

Both of these characters appeared in previous Marvel movies, but they hadn’t really gotten a chance to shine until *Thunderbolts*. In fact, some fans might have forgotten about them – that sometimes happens in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and while it’s disappointing, we’ve become accustomed to it. Luckily, that won’t be a problem with these two anymore.

Ghost’s Journey From Antagonist to Antihero

Ava Starr, also known as Ghost, first appeared in the movie *Ant-Man and the Wasp* as part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s third phase. Her story began tragically: a quantum accident gave her uncontrollable powers and tragically killed her parents. Afterward, organizations like S.H.I.E.L.D. exploited her abilities, ultimately leading her down a path toward becoming a villain.

Her story offered Marvel a lot of creative freedom, allowing it to go in many different directions. In *Ant-Man and the Wasp*, she was struggling to control her abilities and was willing to take big risks to do so. The movie also showed that she was in serious danger – if she couldn’t master her powers, she wouldn’t survive.

After the events of *Avengers: Infinity War*, Ava’s future seemed bleak – the technology that kept her stable was destroyed along with half of all life. Many viewers likely believed she didn’t survive the five years that followed, succumbing to the illness she’d been fighting.

*Thunderbolts* defied expectations, and the film really let Ghost come into her own. She didn’t just survive – she now appears to have mastered her powers. She’s composed, in control, and incredibly strong.

Most importantly, being around Yelena and the others helps Ava feel like a real person. She enjoys joking with Yelena, confidently participates in discussions, and quickly becomes one of the group. She truly feels like she’s found a family, even if it’s a bit unconventional. By letting her join the team as her own person, *Thunderbolts* gave Ava the freedom to grow and define herself, instead of always being defined by others or a specific role.

U.S. Agent Faces Real Consequences for His Behavior (& Is Better For It)

John Walker, also known as U.S. Agent, wasn’t designed to be a likable character, and that’s perfectly fine. He was introduced in the Disney+ series *The Falcon and the Winter Soldier* as part of Marvel’s Phase 4 plans. He obtained a flawed version of the Super Soldier Serum, and his intense ambition created a dangerous combination.

John Walker is deeply flawed, but *Thunderbolts* shows us he’s more than just a villain. He’s made mistakes – he couldn’t live up to the hero role, his marriage failed, and he’s a distant father – but he’s still a person trying to navigate those failures. The movie acknowledges the consequences of his actions; he’s recently divorced and estranged from his child, and now works with the questionable Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, highlighting how much his life has fallen apart. While the film doesn’t fully explore the weight of his choices, it’s clear he’s struggling with them and isn’t beyond the possibility of trying to improve.

John Walker remains a difficult character in *Thunderbolts*. While he’s often arrogant and unpleasant, stemming from his past trauma and insecurity, these traits actually create a necessary dynamic within the group. He frequently becomes the target of jokes and lighthearted ribbing, which could ultimately be beneficial for his personal growth.

John Walker didn’t choose to join the Thunderbolts, but he’s on the team now anyway. He’s been adopted into this group, and his teammates are going to treat him like a younger brother – pointing out all his mistakes along the way.

While these changes might seem small, *Thunderbolts* has successfully made these characters feel more human. They’re now funny, emotionally complex, and realistically flawed. This improved character development allows the MCU to utilize them effectively as either antiheroes or heroes, depending on the story. Being a team makes them more powerful overall, and we’re excited to see what adventures await them.

Thunderbolts* is available to stream on Disney+.

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2025-09-16 19:42