The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) may be ushering in a new era of anti-heroes with its forthcoming Thunderbolts movie, according to a compelling fan theory. Traditionally, in Marvel Comics lore, Baron Helmut Zemo’s transformation of the Masters of Evil into the Thunderbolts filled the void left by the Avengers, garnering fame in the process. Over time, the Thunderbolts evolved, welcoming numerous heroes, anti-heroes, and villains, oscillating between heroic deeds and villainous schemes.
In Phase 5 of the MCU, the Thunderbolts appear under a different guise, seemingly orchestrated by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. This incarnation of the team operates as black ops mercenaries, offering their services in exchange for redemption. Each member, including Bucky Barnes, Yelena Belova, John Walker, Alexei Shostakov, Ava Starr, and Antonia Dreykov, possesses formidable combat skills but lacks the power level of Avengers like Captain America or Spider-Man. Valentina’s strategy likely hinges on their expendability, positioning them to execute tasks without drawing significant public scrutiny.
The speculation around the asterisk in “Thunderbolts*” suggests ominous possibilities for the team’s fate in the upcoming 2025 movie. Some theories suggest that the asterisk hints at a tragic conclusion, potentially implying the demise of every team member. Despite this, Valentina’s long-term plans for the Thunderbolts remain cryptic, possibly paving the way for a transition to the Dark Avengers, a team comprising villainous counterparts to Earth’s Mightiest Heroes.
Ross’ Red Thunderbolts: MCU’s Most Lethal Team?
Meanwhile, General Ross, known for his role as Red Hulk in the MCU, assembles his own lethal team reminiscent of the Thunderbolts in Marvel Comics. Initially targeting the mutant Domino in “Code Red,” Ross formed a villainous team including Deadpool, the Punisher, Elektra, Crimson Dynamo, and Thundra. This team evolved into Ross’ Thunderbolts, undergoing iterations that included Agent Venom and Ghost Rider, each tasked with eliminating targets beyond Ross’ direct reach.
In Phase 5, significant roles for Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool, Jon Bernthal’s Punisher, and Tim Blake Nelson’s portrayal of the Leader signal a potential convergence of Ross’ Thunderbolts narrative. With these characters poised for prominent MCU appearances, speculation mounts on the introduction of remaining team members like Elektra and Ghost Rider.
Potential Sequel: Ross’ Quest for Power
Looking ahead, if fan theories about a tragic end to the initial Thunderbolts team hold true, President Ross could seize upon Valentina’s initiative as an opportunity to fulfill his lifelong pursuit of power. Faced with past failures in super soldier experiments and political endeavors, a transformed Ross might enlist Valentina to recruit a new cadre of villains and anti-heroes. This hypothetical sequel could explore Ross’ quest for revenge against superheroes who thwarted his ambitions, potentially setting the stage for a darker chapter in the MCU.
As anticipation builds for the MCU’s exploration of Thunderbolts and Ross’ ambitions, Phase 5 promises to delve into morally complex narratives that challenge traditional heroism, offering audiences a fresh perspective on superhero dynamics.
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