Thunderbolts* ending explained: Thunderbolts* ending connects to Avengers: Doomsday

Marvel fans, brace yourselves, Thunderbolts* just flipped the superhero script. This movie isn't your typical “save the world with capes” kind of flick. It's gritty, emotional, and deeply personal.

This film lands right before Avengers: Doomsday, putting it in a key position for shaping what’s next in the Multiverse Saga. It sets the tone for a darker, more grounded Marvel phase.

While the movie stands on its own, the ending definitely ties into the big Avengers finale. But it does this subtly, no awkward plot-hijacking setups here.

These aren’t polished superheroes. They’re broken, bruised, and full of baggage. Think of them as Marvel’s version of a misfit support group.

If the original Avengers were gods and soldiers, the Thunderbolts* are survivors. Each member is dealing with deep emotional wounds, and the movie leans hard into that.

Forget massive sky beams and endless CGI fights. This movie’s power is in its emotional punches and subverted expectations.

Disclaimer: The article might contain spoilers for Thunderbolts*. Reader's discretion is advised.

Does it set the stage for Doomsday?

This team includes Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, Ghost, U.S. Agent, and Sentry, all brought together by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine.

They’re tasked with stopping The Sentry, who’s slowly being consumed by The Void, a dark force that threatens global destruction.

Sentry is Marvel’s Superman... if Superman had serious mental health struggles. The Void is the darker side of him, and it’s not metaphorical; it’s a literal cosmic threat.

Every character is haunted by past failures. The film explores what it means to be broken and what it takes to heal.

Instead of just punching problems away, there’s a genuine effort to understand and help one another, something most superhero teams don’t attempt.

The movie’s theme is clear: you can’t save the world if you’re falling apart inside.

Rather than a typical third-act brawl, the climax happens inside the void, where visuals reflect internal chaos. It's trippy, intense, and beautiful.

Each character confronts their worst fears and traumas in this space, turning personal growth into physical action sequences.

Everyone makes it out, barely. Sentry is contained (not killed), and the team emerges stronger and more bonded.

She’s the emotional center and the unofficial leader. Her performance is raw and heartfelt.

Still haunted by the Winter Soldier, Bucky’s arc is about moving forward and finding purpose.

Sure, he’s funny, but he also delivers surprising depth, especially when he drops the bravado.

She’s shady and manipulative, but oh-so-compelling. Her motivations remain murky, but she’s pulling all the strings.

And coming to the post-credit scene....

The post-credit scene teases the formation of a new "Black Ops" Avengers-like team, led by Val, hinting at what's coming in Doomsday.

Expect these characters to be key players in the next Avengers movie, potentially replacing the classic roster.

The Avengers had raw power. The Thunderbolts*? They’ve got grit and emotional complexity.

These aren’t role models. They’re relatable, messy, and struggling, which makes them way more human.

In the comics, Thunderbolts* were often villains posing as heroes. The film drops that twist, focusing more on redemption.

If you're a purist, the changes might bug you. But if you’re open to a reimagining, it’s a refreshing take.

No filler, no forced cameos, no side plots to set up ten other movies. Just one story, told well.

While it hints at future events, Thunderbolts* stays rooted in its own storyline, finally!

All signs point to the Thunderbolts* playing a major role in the final Multiverse showdown.

Don’t be surprised if we get solo stories for Yelena, Sentry, or even Bucky again.

It’s not flashy like Endgame, but it hits hard emotionally and opens the door to something new.

Thunderbolts* may be the key to rebuilding trust in the Marvel brand and reminding fans why we fell in love with these stories in the first place.

Thunderbolts* proves that superhero movies can still surprise us. It's not about gods or legends, it's about broken people trying to put themselves back together while saving the world. And somehow, that makes their mission feel even more heroic.