Why Marvel's New Superhero Squad Must Challenge an Outdated Avenger Tradition

Marvel's Thunderbolts presents an opportunity for Bucky Barnes to take center stage in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a chance he hasn't had on the big screen before. However, there are rumors suggesting that Bucky's role on the team may be reduced, raising doubts about his prominence in the upcoming MCU movie. Even if these rumors are untrue, Bucky's complicated past in the franchise leaves his future as a central figure in Thunderbolts uncertain.

Bucky has been a supporting character in the MCU for a while now, unlike Sam Wilson leading Captain America: Brave New World and Rhodey in the upcoming Armor Wars movie. As one of the early MCU heroes yet to star in his own film, Thunderbolts could be the perfect opportunity for Bucky to finally step into the spotlight. It is crucial that Marvel seizes this chance to give him the recognition he has earned.

Bucky Has Been Used As A Plot Device Too Much

Split image of Bucky undergoing brainwashing and as the Winter Soldier - Bucky Has Been Used As A Plot Device Too Much

Bucky has never been the main character in a Marvel movie, and sometimes he seems to be more of a plot device than a fully developed character. This is not a criticism of Sebastian Stan's portrayal of Barnes, but rather a reflection on how Marvel utilizes Bucky in their stories. In movies like Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Captain America: Civil War, Bucky is often used to advance the plot without having much agency or making significant choices, largely due to being brainwashed.

It often appears that Bucky is included in the MCU movies to serve as motivation for Steve Rogers. Even in Captain America: The First Avenger, where Bucky is given more depth, he is captured at one point to prompt Steve to defy orders and join the war to rescue him. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier series does a better job of delving into Bucky's character, but this exploration has not yet been seen in a movie, only in a Disney+ show.

Bucky Is Overdue For A Leading Role

Bucky Barnes in therapy in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier - Bucky Is Overdue For A Leading Role

It seems like Bucky Barnes has been waiting a long time for his moment in the spotlight. Black Widow had to wait until after her character was killed off to get her own movie. Now, with Bucky being part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe since Phase 1, it feels like it's his turn to take the lead in a film. Marvel's Thunderbolts, releasing soon, will mark Bucky's 14th year in the MCU, making it the perfect time for him to shine.

Sebastian Stan, who plays Bucky, still has a few more movies left in his contract. However, most of these will likely be appearances in Avengers films. With his strong connection to the character of Captain America, it's clear that Sebastian Stan is a great fit for future projects in that realm. There are only a limited number of chances to give him a leading role before his contract is up for renegotiation, and it's uncertain if he will continue in the MCU after so many years.

Thunderbolts Would Have Been The Perfect Time To Let Bucky Shine

Bucky Barnes turning away from picture of him as Winter Soldier and toward the Thunderbolts - Thunderbolts Would Have Been The Perfect Time To Let Bucky Shine

Marvel's Thunderbolts could be a great movie for Bucky to lead. He has a lot of experience working with superhero teams and is a familiar character to audiences. By focusing on Bucky, the film could introduce the rest of the team from his perspective. While promotional art may suggest Yelena will lead, Bucky could still play a significant role in the story.

Captain America: Civil War did a great job of making both Captain America and Iron Man feel like the main characters of the movie. Bucky and Yelena could play a similar important role as the most well-developed characters on the Thunderbolts team. Bucky is seen as the most heroic member, so it would make sense for him to take on a leadership role similar to Captain America on the Avengers, albeit with a bit more roughness. It is hoped that Marvel's Thunderbolts will showcase Bucky effectively and not just have him make a brief appearance.

Editor's P/S:

This article highlights the potential for Bucky Barnes to finally take center stage in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with the upcoming "Marvel's Thunderbolts" movie. The author argues that Bucky has been underutilized and relegated to a supporting role in previous MCU films. They believe that "Thunderbolts" presents the perfect opportunity for Bucky to shine, given his long tenure in the franchise and Sebastian Stan's strong portrayal.

However, the article also acknowledges rumors suggesting that Bucky's role in "Thunderbolts" may be reduced. This raises concerns about whether Marvel will fully embrace Bucky as a central figure in the film. Despite these uncertainties, the author expresses hope that Marvel will seize the chance to give Bucky the recognition he deserves and showcase his leadership qualities. They emphasize that Bucky's journey in the MCU has been overdue for a leading role, and "Thunderbolts" could be the perfect platform for him to step into the spotlight.