The revelation of the asterisk in Thunderbolts has ignited curiosity among fans, leading to questions about its significance. Initially, it appeared to reflect the team’s dissatisfaction with the name bestowed by Red Guardian. While this interpretation holds true within the film, there’s more behind it, as hinted by fan discussions and insights from Marvel. A source close to the project disclosed to io9 that the asterisk’s reveal isn’t meant to be permanent; it serves as a clever marketing tactic.
Understanding the New Avengers
After rescuing Bob from the immense powers of the Void within him, the Thunderbolts confront Val, the catalyst behind New York’s turmoil. Their approach to catch or eliminate her is a distraction; they’ve positioned themselves in front of the press Val summoned to unveil their new identity as the Avengers. This transition is prominently highlighted in the film’s end titles, shifting from Thunderbolts to New Avengers, complete with a fresh logo and Alan Silvestri’s iconic score.
What Are the Origins of the New Avengers?
The New Avengers were established in January 2005 by Brian Michael Bendis and David Finch, emerging from the chaos of the Avengers Disassembled storyline. During a riot at the Raft—a supervillain prison—Spider-Woman, Daredevil, and Luke Cage unite with Captain America, Iron Man, Sentry, and Spider-Man to restore order. The chaos results in the escape of forty-two inmates, inspiring the heroes, along with Wolverine, to form a new alliance in pursuit of the runaway villains.
Who Are the Current New Avengers?
Over the years, various versions of the New Avengers have appeared, with members from Thunderbolts participating in different forms. Characters like Bob/Sentry, Bucky, and Mel (Songbird) have donned the title of New Avengers, while Yelena, Red Guardian, US Agent, Ghost, and Taskmaster have been featured in the Thunderbolts at least twice.
How Do the Thunderbolts Differ from the New Avengers?
While the original New Avengers assembled somewhat organically, the Thunderbolts have historically been gathered for deliberate objectives—like their recent mission to eliminate the Red Skull. The film combines both approaches: Val calls together Walker, Yelena, Ghost, and Taskmaster to eliminate threats, which then evolves into a mission to rescue Bob from Val’s control, furthering his transformation into the Sentry. This narrative arc plays into the comic’s premise of villains masquerading as heroes, eventually seeking redemption through heroic acts.
What Role Do the New Avengers Play in the MCU?
In the movie, Val often mentions the necessity of a new superhero team to protect America. Yet, by the time of the post-credits scene, it becomes evident that they seem to have fallen out of public favor and are embroiled in a trademark dispute with Sam Wilson, the current Captain America. Although Sam does not appear, he likely leads his own team of Avengers, consisting of his protégé, Joaquin Torres, who has recently taken up the Falcon mantle. This sets the stage for potential encounters, as they appear to be the first to spot a rocket possibly bringing the Fantastic Four to Earth, paving the way for both teams in Avengers: Doomsday.
What’s Next for the New Avengers?
Both Doomsday and its sequel, Secret Wars, promise to weave in themes from Jonathan Hickman and Esad Ribic’s 2015 multiverse event. The New Avengers also contributed to this narrative; Hickman’s 2013 relaunch focused on the Illuminati, a group dedicated to averting multiversal incursions. Key members, including Reed Richards, Beast, Professor X, and Namor, are set to appear in Doomsday.
How Will the New Avengers Evolve Post-Secret Wars?
After the rebirth of the Marvel Universe following Secret Wars, the New Avengers were transformed into the U.S. Avengers during a 2017-2018 series led by Al Ewing and Paco Medina, and they have not reappeared since. Val’s insistence on a team focused on American interests seems to echo the spirit of this offshoot.
The future of the cinematic New Avengers is poised to unfold in the coming years. For now, Val has assembled the team she promised to the populace, granting its members the redemption they’ve sought while holding leverage over Val should her promises falter.
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