There was a time when Marvel movies were actually kind of fun. They weren’t always particularly good, sure, and they leaned heavily on a tried-and-true formula — to the point where you could watch one trailer and predict every algorithmic story beat, crocodile tear moment, and ironic quip that would tumble out over the next two hours. But despite that heavy-handed template, they still managed to be a good time most of the time: actually playing at inspiring heroics rather than just paying lip service to the idea, wringing out a handful of genuine laughs (largely thanks to some truly terrific casting), and occasionally conjuring up an impressive set piece or two. Thunderbolts* doesn’t manage any of that. It’s both humorless and weightless, unable to decide if it wants to be taken seriously or not. The character work is thin, the drama feels half-hearted, and the whole movie hovers awkwardly between grim and goofy without ever committing to either. Read More
