Marvel’s latest ensemble film Thunderbolts* is slated to hit Disney+ this summer following a theatrical debut that drew praise for its performances and direction, though its box office figures have been more restrained compared to recent Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) entries.

The antihero team-up, directed by Jake Schreier, features returning MCU characters including Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova, Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes and Wyatt Russell’s U.S. Agent. The movie offers a darker, character-driven chapter in the franchise and serves as a key setup for the future of Marvel’s grounded storytelling slate.

Why It Matters

The performance of Thunderbolts* will offer a key signal for Marvel’s future ensemble storytelling outside the Avengers framework. With a cast of antiheroes and lesser-known characters from previous phases, the film represents Marvel’s attempt to diversify its franchise offerings and pivot toward more mature, emotionally complex narratives.

Where to Watch Marvel’s ‘Thunderbolts*‘

Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts* remains in theaters following its May 2 release. The film has garnered positive reviews and continues to attract audiences. While the exact duration of its stay in theaters will depend on factors like audience demand and upcoming releases, it’s common for major studio films to remain in cinemas for several weeks. Given Thunderbolts*‘ strong reception, it is expected to follow a similar theatrical run. The film has earned an 88 percent Tomatometer score through Rotten Tomatoes.

Looking ahead, Marvel has an exciting slate of films scheduled for 2025. The franchise already released Captain America: Brave New World, which scored a 48 percent Tomatometer mark and grossed $415 million at the worldwide box office, according to Box Office Mojo.

Ironheart is premiering on June 24 and The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to release on July 25. These upcoming releases are part of Marvel’s ongoing efforts to expand and diversify its cinematic universe.

How Much Has ‘Thunderbolts*’ Made at the Worldwide Box Office?

According to Box Office Mojo, Thunderbolts* has grossed approximately $173 million globally.

Compared to the $88.3 million domestic opening of Captain America: Brave New World, Thunderbolts*‘ $74.3 million debut represents a roughly 16 percent decrease in opening weekend revenue. Its opening weekend is more similar to the 2021 release of Black Widow, which had a $80.4 million domestic opening.

While not a financial failure, the box office haul is modest compared to past MCU projects, especially given the ensemble cast and Marvel branding. By contrast, films like the 2019 film Avengers: Endgame grossed $357.1 million for its domestic openings, and the 2021 film Spider Man: No Way Home grossed $260.1 million for its domestic opening, according to Box Office Mojo.

When Will ‘Thunderbolts*’ Be Available for Digital Release and Streaming?

While the release date for its debut on streaming platforms and digital release has not been announced, industry experts can predict when the film will be available at home, based on patterns.

A digital release is expected in June, aligning with Disney‘s usual strategy of releasing Marvel titles on streaming platforms 45 to 60 days after theatrical debut, reported Forbes. The film will likely be made available on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+ and YouTube TV. It is anticipated to cost $24.99 to buy and $19.99 to rent, according to Forbes.

The film will likely arrive for streaming on Disney+ in August, Forbes added, mimicking the three-month timeline for other movies.

What People Are Saying

A Reddit user named u/newgodpho posted earlier this month: “Bucky and Sam having a falling out felt like legit good emotional stakes/drama that’s been missing for years (imo) I actually care about them and this is coming from a post credit scene lol”

A Reddit user named u/Specific_Painter_517 posted on May 8: “It was amazing! The characters were iconic and the movie mixed humor and tragedy and the message hit a little close to home for me. 5 stars, I’m seeing it again soon!”

A Reddit user named u/sickofbeingfly posted on May 4: “Watched it yesterday evening. I loved it. Instead of reformed villains like the comics, we got characters that were used as over ambitious future plot devices in some of the MCU’s most rejected projects, tongue in cheek projecting their insecurities toward us, the audience. It gives the film an appropriately used meta tone even through the initial credits. Even super powered people can feel insecure, and not good enough. Corny in approach and theory but the execution was very fun. Look how far we’ve come to where we have Sentry in a movie! The MCU feels exciting again.”

What’s Next

Marvel has yet to announce a direct sequel or follow-up project for the Thunderbolts* team, though the film is expected to tie into broader MCU storylines through future Disney+ series and theatrical entries. Viewer response to its streaming debut will likely help determine the studio’s next moves regarding these characters and the darker thematic tone they represent.

In the meantime, Marvel is expected to continue building on the post-Avengers: Endgame landscape with more grounded and character-focused stories, as it attempts to maintain momentum with both theatrical and streaming audiences in a competitive superhero content market.