What's happened
Marvel's 'Thunderbolts,' featuring antiheroes led by Yelena Belova and Bucky Barnes, is now available for digital purchase and rental as of July 1, 2025. The film, released in theaters two months prior, has received positive reviews, with critics praising its entertainment value. A physical release is scheduled for July 29.
What's behind the headline?
Streaming Trends in the MCU
- Digital Release Strategy: 'Thunderbolts' is part of Marvel's evolving strategy to balance theatrical and digital releases. Unlike earlier pandemic-era practices, recent films have adhered to a more traditional 90-day window before becoming available for home viewing.
- Audience Reception: The film has garnered positive reviews, with critics noting its engaging storyline and character dynamics. This suggests a potential shift in audience expectations towards more character-driven narratives in superhero films.
- Future Implications: As Marvel continues to release films digitally, the impact on box office revenues and viewer habits will be significant. The success of 'Thunderbolts' could influence how future Marvel projects are marketed and distributed, particularly in the context of streaming services like Disney Plus.
What the papers say
According to the NY Post, 'Thunderbolts' is now available for digital purchase on platforms like Prime Video, with a rental option also available. The film has been described as 'Marvel's most entertaining movie in years' by critic Johnny Oleksinski. Meanwhile, The Scotsman notes that while the film is available digitally, it is not yet on Disney Plus, indicating a likely delay in its streaming availability. This aligns with Marvel's recent trend of maintaining a longer gap between theatrical and streaming releases, as seen with other films like 'Captain America: Brave New World.'
How we got here
Released in theaters in May 2025, 'Thunderbolts' is the 36th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It features a cast of familiar faces and explores themes of teamwork among antiheroes. The film's digital release follows a trend of recent Marvel films transitioning to home viewing after a theatrical window.
Go deeper
- What are the main themes of 'Thunderbolts'?
- Who are the key characters in the film?
- When will 'Thunderbolts' be available on Disney Plus?
Common question
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What Are Critics Saying About Marvel's 'Thunderbolts'?
Marvel's 'Thunderbolts' has recently hit digital platforms, and critics are buzzing about its reception. With a mix of antiheroes led by Yelena Belova and Bucky Barnes, the film has sparked discussions among fans and reviewers alike. Below, we explore what critics are saying, how it stacks up against other Marvel films, and what fans can expect from its upcoming physical release.
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