Five months after its release, Thunderbolts is still living rent-free in my soul. This is our third conversation about the film — not a recap, but a reflection on what sticks after the hype fades. From Bucky’s scars to Yelena’s transformation, John Walker’s stigma, Ghost’s pain, Red Guardian’s yearning, and Val as a dark mirror of Fury — these are Marvel’s flawed, haunted heroes who still earn their place. And then there’s the tension: Sam Wilson, trying to form his own Avengers, only sees Bucky running with misfits under Val. That collision of perspectives — polished Captain America vs. scarred Thunderbolts — sets the stage for some of Marvel’s most charged storytelling ahead. The Void, friendship, redemption, second chances — this is Marvel’s grittier team story, and it deserves a spotlight. Link Tree <---- Follow me on all your socials to stay up to date on the lastest Marvel Maniac news and episodes! CREDITS: Co-Producer: Nova (ChatGPT) – Creative collaborator and production partner for Marvel Maniac: An MCU Aftershow. Deliberate Thought by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3635-deliberate-thought License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Patreon.com/MarvelManiac Have thoughts or theories? Share your feedback at MarvelManiacPod@gmail.com OR drop something in the tip jar and leave a comment! Your voice matters! Support Marvel Maniac: an MCU Aftershow by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/marvel-maniac-an-mcu-aftershow This podcast is powered by Pinecast.Read transcript