Thunderbolts* is shaping up to be one of the more unexpected potential hits for the waning MCU, in the vein of James Gunn’s game-changing Guardians of the Galaxy film. Filled with underrated characters, Thunderbolts* positions itself as the perfect counter to the Avengers, a ragtag team of criminals whose gray morality separates them from Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. However, many fans hoped for the new group to eventually adopt the Avengers name, with perhaps “Dark” or “New” in front of it. In fact, it’s been widely speculated that the asterisk in the film’s title refers to the Thunderbolts name as a placeholder, but it seems a new promotional item may have revealed the anti-climactic truth.
Along with the exciting Super Bowl trailer, Marvel Studios debuted several new bits of promotion for Thunderbolts*, one of which is an English version of an international poster that made its way online earlier this week. Unlike previous posters, this one directly references the asterisk in the film’s title, stating: “*The Avengers Are Not Available.” The quote seemingly references how, in the absence of an Avengers team in the MCU post-Endgame, the squad of misfit criminals are the only ones available to counter the threat of Sentry, a super-powered being that even Earth’s Mightiest Heroes would have trouble fighting.
Of course, there is still a chance that the aforementioned quote is simply a marketing-only explanation for the asterisk. However, it’s been made quite clear by those behind Thunderbolts* that they are intent on keeping the true meaning behind it a secret. David Harbour previously teased that the true meaning behind the title is “very cool,” and although details were not revealed, it seems like a relatively important aspect of the film’s mysterious plot.

“What can I say that’s not going to get me in trouble? The asterisk is very cool. I understand why people might put an asterisk there. I’m excited for the viewers to see that as well.”

‘Thunderbolts*’ Super Bowl Trailer Blows the Lid on Mysterious Superhero Project

As fans continue to speculate about the possible alternate title for Thunderbolts*, the latest trailer revealed the film’s true villain and possible repercussions for the grander MCU. Although the main team is made up of mostly power-less people, they will be up against Sentry, a Superman-like character from Marvel Comics that often drifts from hero to villain at a moment’s notice. The trailer reveals him in his comic-accurate Sentry suit, throwing around Thunderbolts members with ease and dismembering Bucky. However, as seen in the latest footage, it seems audiences will also be treated to The Void, a dark alternate persona of Bob played by Lewis Pullman.

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If the titular team somehow pulls off defeating Sentry, perhaps adopting the “Dark Avengers” moniker would be quite appropriate. After all, they are confirmed to be appearing in Avengers: Doomsday, the first part of the culmination of the Multiverse Saga. They might not be the most powerful group, but becoming the first team to come together post-Endgame could net them a major role in the MCU moving forward. Of course, it all likely depends on how Thunderbolts* performs at the box office and with critics, but early signs are looking quite promising.

Thunderbolts*

Release Date

May 2, 2025

Writers

Lee Sung-jin, Eric Pearson, Joanna Calo

Franchise(s)

Marvel Cinematic Universe