Thunderbolts* looks to shake up the MCU – what are critics saying?

's next biggest , Thunderbolts*, hit theaters next month, but early reviews have hailed the superhero film as the Marvel Cinematic Universe's (MCU) best one yet!

Marvel's anti-hero ensemble flick Thunderbolts* hits theaters on May 2. © IMAGO / Landmark Media

They may not be the , but it's their time to shine!

The MCU ensemble flick – featuring Florence Pugh, David Harbour, and Sebastian Stan – follows a group of anti-heroes who are given a chance for redemption with a dangerous mission against an even more dangerous enemy.

Following the success of and , Marvel seems to be on the road to redemption after a rocky post-Endgame run.

Will keep Marvel's lucky streak going? The first set of reviews is in, and so far, they've been overwhelmingly positive!

Florence Pugh AKA Yelena lights up the #Thunderbolts* European Premiere! pic.twitter.com/gdnqcAC8Pw

— Marvel Studios (@MarvelStudios) April 22, 2025

Thunderbolts* praised as Florence Pugh emerges as the standout star Florence Pugh's portrayal as Yelena Belova has been heavily praised by fans as the best in Thunderbolts*. © IMAGO / Landmark Media

Following the London premiere of Thunderbolts*, viewers have raved nonstop about the flick, with many declaring that it's one of the MCU's best superhero movies.

One X user , "#Thunderbolts is one of the best mcu films by a landslide. Brilliant story and character moments. This is made with love. It setups up for BIG things to come in the most exciting way I seen since 2012. Bring your tissues but not because it's a sad movie."

Additionally, Pugh's portrayal as Yelena Belova has been called a "standout role" by many fans.

Another fan , "I saw #Thunderbolts and I can say it's a total BLAST! It's not only funny packed with great action, but also has a beautiful emotional story full of heart. The entire cast is amazing, but the real standout is Florence Pugh as Yelena. One of MCU's best."

#Thunderbolts is one of the best mcu films by a landslide. Brilliant story and character moments. This is made with love. It setups up for BIG things to come in the most exciting way I seen since 2012. Bring your tissues but not because it’s a sad movie. pic.twitter.com/2tS8QtUb0P

— deo (@frickyuu) April 22, 2025

I saw #Thunderbolts and I can say it's a total BLAST! It's not only funny packed with great action, but also has a beautiful emotional story full of heart. The entire cast is amazing, but the real standout is Florence Pugh as Yelena. One of MCU's best. Don't miss it May 2nd! pic.twitter.com/S4ncV7RT7k

— Davy (@davybirth) April 22, 2025

#Thunderbolts is A24 meets Superhero character study. Raw. Fresh. Hilarious at times. Sad at others. It has you rooting for this scrappy ensemble on the edge of your seat. Big implications, but still it’s own thing. If this is how the MCU is doing films now, BRAVA. pic.twitter.com/eCDo8dDSgc

— River Adé (@blerdymedia) April 22, 2025

Don't miss Marvel's next superhero adventure when Thunderbolts* crashes into theaters everywhere on May 2!