15 Anti-Hero Adventures to Watch If You're Hyped for 'Thunderbolts'

Why It's Similar: 

While Thunderbolts* operates within the superhero system, The Boys shows what happens when regular people fight against corrupt superheroes. Both explore the darker side of superpowers and the morally gray area between heroes and villains.

This Amazon Prime series flips the superhero narrative on its head by portraying many of its "supes" as corrupt celebrities while a team of vigilantes works to expose their crimes. The show's unflinching look at power, corruption, and the messy reality behind superhero facades shares DNA with what Thunderbolts* appears to be exploring. Karl Urban's Billy Butcher could easily fit in with the Thunderbolts roster as another damaged soul fighting monsters while becoming one himself.

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Why It's Similar: 

Wade Wilson is the quintessential anti-hero – violent, morally flexible, but ultimately fighting for what he believes is right. His fourth-wall breaking and sardonic view of the superhero world bring a fresh perspective similar to what Yelena Belova might bring to Thunderbolts*.

Ryan Reynolds' foul-mouthed mercenary redefined what superhero movies could be with its R-rated approach to violence and humor. The character's cynical view of heroism and institutions feels spiritually aligned with what we've seen from characters like Yelena Belova and U.S. Agent in the MCU. Deadpool's journey from selfish mercenary to reluctant hero could foreshadow the arcs of several Thunderbolts members.

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Why It's Similar: 

Zack Snyder's adaptation of Alan Moore's groundbreaking graphic novel deconstructs superhero mythology by presenting deeply flawed vigilantes grappling with moral ambiguity – precisely the territory Thunderbolts* will explore.

This dark deconstruction of superhero tropes features characters like Rorschach, The Comedian, and Ozymandias who blur the line between hero and villain. The film examines how power corrupts and the moral compromises made in the name of "greater good," providing a philosophical framework that resonates with the Thunderbolts concept. The visual style and tone may also influence Thunderbolts* approach to action and character development.

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Why It's Similar: 

Just like Thunderbolts*, The Suicide Squad features a government handler (Amanda Waller) who assembles a team of criminals and anti-heroes for dangerous missions where they're essentially expendable. The film balances dark humor with genuine character moments that humanize its villains.

James Gunn's take on DC's team of expendable criminals nails the exact tone that Thunderbolts* appears to be aiming for. With characters like Bloodsport, Peacemaker, and Harley Quinn, the film shows how deeply flawed individuals can find moments of heroism when pushed to their limits. The mix of action, comedy, and surprising emotional depth makes this the perfect appetizer for Thunderbolts* fans.

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Why It's Similar: 

This film introduced three Thunderbolts members – Yelena Belova, Red Guardian, and Taskmaster – while exploring themes of found family and government exploitation that will likely continue in Thunderbolts*.

Florence Pugh's scene-stealing performance as Yelena Belova makes this essential viewing before Thunderbolts*. The film establishes her complicated relationship with her "family" including Red Guardian (David Harbour) and introduces the concept of the Widow program that created both her and Taskmaster. The post-credits scene directly sets up Yelena's recruitment by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, creating a direct bridge to Thunderbolts*.

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Why It's Similar: 

Before the Thunderbolts, there were the Guardians – a team of misfits and criminals who reluctantly come together to save the galaxy. The found-family dynamic and redemption arcs for characters with checkered pasts mirror what we expect from Thunderbolts*.

James Gunn's first MCU outing established the template for making audiences fall in love with a team of criminals and outcasts. With Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot, the film showed how former villains and mercenaries could become heroes without losing their edge. The film's balance of humor, heart, and action created the blueprint that Thunderbolts* will likely follow.

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