The upcoming Marvel film, "Thunderbolts," is breaking away from the traditional blockbuster mold, embracing a more indie and artistic direction. Actress Florence Pugh, who portrays Yelena Belova in the movie, described it as having a unique vibe that feels closer to an edgy indie film than a typical Hollywood production. This unconventional approach has been reflected in the marketing strategy, which highlights the involvement of talent associated with A24 films. The teaser emphasizes key cast members' connections to A24 projects, along with the creative team behind some critically acclaimed independent works. Director Jake Schreier revealed that the goal was to create something distinct, merging the tones of Marvel's universe with the artistic sensibilities of indie cinema.
Pugh's remarks shed light on how "Thunderbolts" aims to differentiate itself within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. According to her, the film has evolved into a gritty, assassin-focused narrative that resonates with the style of A24 productions. This shift is evident in the marketing efforts, which draw attention to the cast's previous work in films like "Midsommar" and "Everything Everywhere All at Once." The teaser also showcases contributions from creatives known for their innovative storytelling, including the writers and director of "Beef," the editor of "Minari," and the composers of "Everything Everywhere All at Once."
The film's director, Jake Schreier, elaborated on this unique vision during an interview at Comic-Con. He explained that Kevin Feige, the president of Marvel Studios, set out to create something different right from the start. Schreier expressed his hope that by blending the worlds of Marvel and indie filmmaking, they have crafted a fresh and exciting experience for audiences. The teaser's reception on social media further underscored this fusion, with A24 playfully responding using a meme from "Euphoria."
In "Thunderbolts," Pugh joins forces with David Harbour, working under the U.S. government alongside other notable actors such as Olga Kurylenko, Hannah John-Kamen, Wyatt Russell, and Lewis Pullman. Pullman plays Bob, a character Pugh describes as someone Yelena can relate to deeply. She notes that Yelena feels protective towards Bob, seeing parts of herself in him and taking on a nurturing role due to his vulnerability.
The film, set for release on May 2, draws inspiration from Kurt Busiek's comic book series of the same name. Produced by Kevin Feige, it promises to deliver a fresh take on superhero narratives, blending the epic scale of Marvel with the intimate and artistic flair of indie cinema. Through its unique approach, "Thunderbolts" aims to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers alike, offering a cinematic experience that stands apart from the conventional blockbuster formula.