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If A24 did an assassin movie with superheroes, it'd be Marvel Studios' Thunderbolts* says A24 alum Florence Pugh
Florence Pugh digs the indie, A24 vibes of Marvel's Thunderbolts*
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As much as the MCU has excelled in doing expansive storytelling like the Infinity Saga, there's something to be said for making superhero films that feel like indie movies - when people aren't punching each other at least. Look no further than the first half hour of Cate Shortland's Black Widow, which was Florence Pugh's MCU debut. Her role as Yelena Belova was scene-stealing, and provided an affecting contrast to the younger version of her character that we saw in the beginning of the film. Now, Pugh is back in the MCU with Thunderbolts* due out on May 2, 2025.
Speaking to Empire magazine, Pugh offered high praise for the direction of Jake Schreier's Thunderbolts*. Pugh said, "It ended up becoming this quite badass indie, A24-feeling assassin movie with Marvel superheroes." This is because most of the cast of Thunderbolts* doesn't have superpowers, barring, of course, The Sentry, played by Lewis Pullman.
Florence Pugh and A24 go way back. The actress made waves when she starred in Ari Aster's 2019 film, Midsommar, which was produced and distributed by A24. Pugh's character, Dani, goes through a heartbreaking journey as she struggles with grief in the wake of losing her entire family. Last year, Pugh starred in another A24 film, We Live in Time, with Andrew Garfield.
It's been clear thus far that Thunderbolts isn't interested in filling the same niche that the Avengers occupied within the MCU. The team seems more dysfunctional than Earth's Mightiest Heroes, and that's part of their charm. A24 films are often character-driven, so let's hope that that carries over with Thunderbolts*.
Consider this a meta post-credits scene for Marvel fans - the four key articles you need to read next to continue the thrills:
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