The filmmaker explains the origins of that A24-style trailer and jokes about The Hollywood Reporter’s own cameo in the feature, which explores mental health through the superhero genre.
Jake Schreier’s journey to directing Thunderbolts feels almost destined, especially considering his close ties to fellow MCU alums Jon Watts and Christopher Ford, who were his roommates at NYU.
Schreier, a Berkeley native, began his feature directorial career in 2012 with Robot & Frank, a Sundance favorite written by Christopher Ford. He later ventured into studio films, directing the low-key hit Paper Towns (2015). In between, Schreier became a sought-after director for television and music videos, lending his distinctive style to projects like Kidding and Lodge 49, as well as crafting inventive videos for artists such as Haim, Kendrick Lamar, and Benny Blanco.
In Thunderbolts, the ensemble cast includes characters like Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), and John Walker (Wyatt Russell), who are brought together by CIA Director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus). Schreier aimed to provide these characters with fresh arcs, even for those with long histories in the MCU, ensuring the film is accessible to both new viewers and longtime fans .
The film’s narrative delves into the complexities of its characters’ psyches, exploring their vulnerabilities and the impact of their past actions. This introspective approach is reminiscent of Beef, which was lauded for its unflinching examination of its characters’ inner turmoil. By incorporating these elements, Schreier has crafted a Marvel film that balances action with emotional resonance, offering a more grounded and relatable experience within the superhero genre.
