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Marvel fans rejoice! We're diving deep into "Thunderbolts*" (or should we say "The New Avengers"?) on this episode of Cinema Saturdays. After several divisive post-Endgame releases, has Marvel finally found its footing again with this ragtag team of morally ambiguous characters?
Join host Nathan and special guest Elizabeth as they break down what makes this final Phase 5 film stand out from recent MCU offerings. David Harbour's Red Guardian emerges as the comedic MVP, bringing genuine laughs that perfectly balance the film's surprisingly mature exploration of trauma and mental health. We discuss how the movie skillfully integrates characters from across the MCU, including Florence Pugh's Yelena Belova, Ghost from Ant-Man and the Wasp, and a welcome return by Bucky Barnes that had Elizabeth particularly excited.
While Julia Louis-Dreyfus's Valentina fails to deliver as a compelling antagonist, the introduction of Sentry (Marvel's Superman equivalent) creates fascinating dynamics within the story. That post-credits scene? Game-changing for what's coming in Phase 6, starting with Fantastic Four! Both hosts award the film a strong 4.5/5, making this required viewing for anyone who's been questioning Marvel's direction lately. Stick around after our Thunderbolts discussion to hear what's coming next week – Nathan's complete breakdown and ranking of all five Final Destination films as he prepares for the upcoming sixth installment. Whether you're a diehard Marvel fan or just looking for your next movie night pick, this episode delivers all the insights without the spoilers you don't want.