MCU Catch-Up: Essential Movies and Shows to Watch Before Thunderbolts

Marvel Studios is gearing up for one of its most intriguing team-ups yet—Thunderbolts. This film will bring together a group of morally ambiguous characters, some reformed, some still haunted by their past. If you want to fully grasp the depth of these characters and their interconnected stories, catching up on key MCU movies and shows is a must.

In this guide, we’ll break down the essential Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) entries that will help you understand the backstories, motivations, and relationships of the Thunderbolts team. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, this watchlist will ensure you’re ready for the action-packed adventure ahead.

1. Black Widow (2021)

Why Watch? This film introduces three major Thunderbolts characters: Yelena Belova, Red Guardian, and Taskmaster. It explores Yelena‘s upbringing in the Red Room, her connection to Natasha Romanoff, and the legacy of espionage that follows her. Red Guardian provides the muscle and tragic nostalgia, while Taskmaster emerges as a silent but deadly force struggling to reclaim her autonomy.

2. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021)

Why Watch? This Disney+ series is crucial for understanding Bucky Barnes and John Walker. It explores Bucky‘s quest for redemption after decades as the Winter Soldier and marks the rise—and fall—of John Walker as Captain America. It’s also where audiences first meet Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, the mysterious figure quietly recruiting her own team.

3. Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)

Why Watch? While more lighthearted in tone, this film introduces Ava Starr, a.k.a. Ghost. Her unstable quantum powers, tragic origin, and struggle to survive make her one of the most emotionally nuanced characters joining the Thunderbolts. Understanding her backstory adds depth to her likely role in the upcoming film.

4. Hawkeye (2021)

Why Watch? This series revisits Yelena Belova’s story following the events of Black Widow, offering a closer look at her grief over Natasha’s death and her conflict with Clint Barton. The show adds dimension to Yelena’s motivations, humor, and fighting style, painting a fuller picture of the character she has become.

5. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)

Why Watch? Going back to where it all started, this film explains the origins of the Super Soldier Serum that plays a critical role in shaping several Thunderbolts members. Bucky Barnes, Steve Rogers, and the ideological foundation of Captain America all stem from this film’s core themes of duty and sacrifice.

6. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

Why Watch? A critical piece of Bucky’s transformation, this film explores his time as a brainwashed assassin. It introduces the morally gray world of covert operations, Hydra infiltration, and government overreach—all ideas that resonate strongly with the tone of Thunderbolts.

7. Captain America: Civil War (2016)

Why Watch? The events of this film fracture the Avengers and define where many Thunderbolts members find themselves post-split. Bucky continues to grapple with his past, and audiences get a taste of how quickly alliances can shift when ideology clashes with loyalty.

8. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

Why Watch? While Endgame focuses on wrapping up the Infinity Saga, its aftermath leaves deep scars. Bucky is adjusting to a post-Blip world, and the legacy of Natasha Romanoff looms large over Yelena’s future. The film serves as an emotional reset for many of the Thunderbolts‘ future members.

9. Secret Invasion (2023)

Why Watch? This series isn’t directly tied to Thunderbolts, but it introduces a climate of suspicion and hidden agendas that fits the atmosphere of the upcoming film. With shape-shifting threats and moral uncertainty, the world is more vulnerable—and more desperate—for a team that doesn’t play by the rules.

Final Thoughts

Marvel’s Thunderbolts promises to be a thrilling ride, bringing together some of the MCU‘s most complex characters. By watching these movies and shows, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of their histories, motivations, and relationships, making the experience even more rewarding.

Are you excited for Thunderbolts? Which character are you most looking forward to seeing in action? Let’s discuss in the comments!