“Wolf, Fox and Leopard” (Tribeca Review) – Jessica Reynolds shines in David Verbeek’s human, emotional and moral victory story

The 4th phase of the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Black Panther: Wakanda forever. Not only is the film a commercial success for the production giant, it also convinces fans that they will now see exciting new stories and new heroes in the upcoming film. But when the movie is like a movie, everything collapses Ant-Man and Wasp: Quantum and Miracle Continue to get negative comments from critics and audiences. Thankfully, the movie likes Guardians of the Galaxy and Deadpool & Wolverine Do better for miracles. However, the franchise is still looking for that movie, which will connect with fans more emotionally. Here comes Thunder*, A movie about a group of anti-heroes reminds the audience why they fell in love with the MCU in the first place.
The film chronicles the journey of several characters – Yelena Belova (played by Florence Pugh), John Walker (played by Wyatt Russell), Ghost (played by Hannah John-Kamen) and Mission Strategy (played by Olga kurylenko) – they are sent to a mysterious location to destroy the entire facility. However, neither of them knew they were sent there by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (played by Julia Louis-Dreyfus) and once they got there they would fight against each other in a deadly confrontation. Moments later, they meet a mysterious figure named Bob (played by Lewis Pullman), whose strange calm manner and live appearance immediately distinguishes him from the chaos around him. As the story disbands, the group realizes that there is something sinister behind the walls of the facility and they may have to unite to stop Valentina from doing something demonic. What happened next was a fascinating fusion of betrayal, survival and redemption, as the barely-powered hero was forced not only to face a deadly plot, but also to face the ghosts of his own past.
A still life from “Thunder*” (Photo courtesy of Marvel)
A superhero movie that dares to go deeper
Take this as the core Thunder* It’s about the broken man trying to find the wholeness. Yes, it has a lot of superhero wonders, but what makes it unique is the way to ask: What happens when people who are seen as weapons start wanting more? After a long time, Marvel created a story that makes each character breathe instantly. Walker continues to fight his legacy, seeking redemption while clashing with authority. But this is not the case, and he also faces many problems at a more personal level. The ghost is tortured, quiet and haunted – literally and metaphorically – her internal conflict is convincing. Meanwhile, Yelena is unable to move forward again while performing some of the toughest tasks. But the movie performed well, and it was the narrative of the movie that did not rush through the stories. Instead, it allows them to unfold organically
make Thunder* This attractive watch is its courageous involvement in mental health. Through their characters, especially Yelena and Bob, the film explores PTSD, identity dispersion, and the dangerous effects of being used as a tool rather than being seen as a human. While there are many moments in this movie that resonate with the characters, it is Yelena’s story arc that hits the hardest, deep pain that even the most powerful people can bring, and how recovery begins when you finally see and hear. The theme resonates outside the screen. In a cinematic universe known for fighting and bombing, the movie dares to say that true victory is survived in one’s own mind, and recovery may come from solidarity, not just strength.
Florence Pugh shines, but the port is grabbing venues

Florence Pugh and David Harbour
This is a Florence Pugh movie, she has nothing to do with Yelena Belova. Her performance balances ironic wit with deep vulnerability, while Pugh is in action sequences and quieter, emotional moments. She improved every scene she was in. This is her movie, she has magnetic, alive performances. David Harbour, as Alexei/Red Guardian, stole almost every scene he appeared. His protective instinct for Yelena, unfiltered humor, and his surprising emotional insights provide the film with the heart.
The film’s supporters – Sebastian Stan, Wyatt Russell, Hannah John-Kamen, Lewis Pullman, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Geraldine Viswanathan – are equally excellent and enhance the viewing experience.
Is Thunder* worth a look?
The direction is tight and intentional, balancing the characteristic moments of movement and intimacy. Photography, especially in shadow devouring scenes, is creepy and surreal. Comprehensive, Thunder* It is an exciting, emotionally rich, thematically bold entry in the MCU, blending superhero wonders with rooted exploration of trauma and healing. It reminds us that even in a world of power and portals, sometimes the greatest strength is simply choosing to live, feel and fight, not glory, but to each other.
This is one of the most important Marvel movies in recent years. It not only attracts you but also makes you feel aware of issues related to mental health. brilliant!