One Thing I Didn't Like About Thunderbolts and Four Things I Did

When my boyfriend and his friends go to see superhero movies (particularly Marvel movies) I usually hang back. I’m not a big superhero fan unless its gritty like the Dark Knight or Watchmen. I will confess to liking X-Men (the original series) But I drew the line at Marvel. Except Thunderbolts made me reconsider my position.

One Thing I Did Not Like About Thunderbolts

• It had the Marvel formula. Okay Marvel really needs to revamp their plot lines. It starts with misunderstood heroes usually with a tragic past. Depending on the movie one hero will feel the call to greatness and one or several  superheroes will unite and they will make great progress defeating the enemy. But then the enemy will exploit their weaknesses and they will turn and hide until a trusted friend brings them back. Then as a team they will  take down the enemy (but usually in a merciful way).

Four Things I Liked About Thunderbolts

• It did an accurate job of portraying mental illness. Valentina (the movie’s bad guy) did an experiment turning ordinary humans into gods. It failed. Except it didn’t. Bobby/ Bob became an all power sentry with God-like powers. The only problem? Bobby deals with severe mental illness. I heard someone say it was schizophrenia but when I learned about the highs and the lows I wondered if it was bipolar disorder. Either way I’m glad they didn’t slap a diagnosis on him. More relatable this way. Anyway Bobby’s dark dominated his normally shy disposition and he starts smiting humans from the planet until Yelena goes into his darkness to rescue him.

• I loved the characters. I loved the team and how they are resistant to the idea are first until they realize they work well together and maybe even can help others as well as others. I loved how sarcastic the characters all were while still being themselves. The only character I didn’t see much of is Ava. Her character was kind of flat but I don’t think that was bad acting on her part.

• I liked that it explored that we all have different demons/ different traumas and we all become different people according to that trauma. Whether that means drinking or hurting others or doing things that make us not want to look at ourselves in the mirror, we can identify with Yelena and even Bobby.

• No Marvel  movie is complete without comic relief and this time I don’t think it’s a bad thing. The main source of the humor was from the Thunderbolt’s sarcastic quips to one another. But Yelena’s father (played by David Harbour) was absolutely hilarious. When he’s not chugging vodka, he’s driving the limo and shredding pillows. He made me laugh even as tears were drying on my face.

Even if you aren’t a superhero fan I’d encourage you to see this movie. What I’m learning is that superhero movies are a staple in our communities. They reflect our values, and we can reflect theirs. Even without cool gadgets or skintight suits that make your butt  look great we can be our Thunderbolts.