Thunderbolts* VFX Critiqued as ‘Janky’ by Industry Artists
Marvel Studios’ 2025 film Thunderbolts is facing scrutiny from visual effects professionals for its computer-generated imagery. A breakdown from the YouTube channel Corridor Crew pinpointed specific moments, particularly in an early vault fight scene, where the CGI was described as having “janky” and unnatural motion.
Despite receiving positive reviews as one of the better-received MCU entries in recent memory, the film’s visual effects have become a point of discussion within the industry. The analysis suggests that the issues are indicative of broader challenges in modern post-production workflows.
Analysis of Key CGI Sequences
The Corridor Crew focused their critique on a fight scene featuring characters Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), US Agent (Wyatt Russell), Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), and Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko). A specific point of contention was the physics when Taskmaster is punched by US Agent, with crew member Wren noting that the character’s movement appeared to accelerate after impact instead of reacting immediately.
Niko, another crew member, commented on the overall feel of the sequence, stating it looked “kind of janky,” while acknowledging the high skill level required for the work. The critique extends beyond a single shot to the general integration of stunts and digital effects.
Broader Industry Context
Jordan from the Corridor Crew connected the visual issues to a common industry problem, noting, “This is kind of the downside of being able to fix anything in post.” He explained that while VFX houses are highly skilled at bridging gaps, some shots can still feel “a little wrong,” potentially stemming from filming actors separately and compositing them later.
This practice has been mentioned by other actors and filmmakers involved in Marvel productions. However, Thunderbolts, directed by Jake Schreier, is considered a less extreme example, as it places a stronger emphasis on character development and drama over large-scale action.
Film’s Critical and Commercial Performance
Despite the focus on its visual effects, Thunderbolts has been widely viewed as a step in the right direction for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The film garnered strong critical reviews for its narrative and character work. Commercially, the movie has struggled by the MCU’s typically high box office standards but remains a significant release for the studio.
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