Marvel Studios has become a powerhouse in the entertainment world, churning out one massive hit after another from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, not every film in this ever-expanding franchise manages to capture the magic it’s known for. Thunderbolts* — the latest addition to the MCU — was no exception. Upon its release in May 2025, the film hit theaters to a less-than-enthusiastic reception.
Despite featuring fan-favorite characters and a unique antihero premise, Thunderbolts* quickly became one of Marvel’s lowest-grossing films, grossing just under $400 million, which was well short of the $425 million the movie needed to break even.
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With the poor box office numbers, Thunderbolts seemed to be another casualty in Marvel’s battle to keep up with audiences’ evolving tastes. But what many didn’t expect was that the movie would experience a second life in the digital world. Just days after its release on Disney+ on August 27, the film shot up the streaming charts, quickly becoming one of the most-watched movies on the platform.
In fact, in less than a week, Thunderbolts* secured the third spot on Disney+’s watchlist, behind films like LEGO Disney Princess: Villains Unite (2025) and Incredibles 2 (2018).
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So, what changed? How did a film deemed a box office disappointment turn into a streaming sensation? Many have speculated that the movie’s connection to the MCU and its core fanbase played a major role. Additionally, the film’s appeal on Disney+ may also stem from its instant availability for subscribers, giving Marvel fans the chance to see it at home rather than enduring a theater experience that didn’t quite live up to expectations.
There was also a major reveal in Thunderbolts*‘ post-credits scene that may have influenced the film's newfound popularity. Audiences learned that the asterisk in the title was for the team's new name, the New Avengers, and they are poised to play a central role in the MCU’s future. This twist connects Thunderbolts* to upcoming Marvel films like Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027), bringing fresh excitement to the universe.
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Furthermore, the post-credits scene marked the long-awaited arrival of The Fantastic Four in the MCU, a moment that will surely have future fans buzzing for years to come.
Thunderbolts* is not the first Marvel or Disney film to experience a dramatic shift from box office failure to streaming success. Films like Wish (2023), Elemental (2023), Haunted Mansion (2023), and Snow White (2025) followed a similar trajectory. These movies struggled to find their audience in theaters but gained significant traction once they debuted on Disney+, suggesting that the platform has become a second chance for films that don’t fare well in the theatrical landscape.
What do you think about Thunderbolts‘ streaming success? What kind of effect do you think streaming services like Disney+ are having on box office performances? Do you think it is helping or hurting? Share your thoughts in the comments!
