Florence Pugh Discusses Yelena Belova in ‘Thunderbolts’

News Summary

Florence Pugh opens up about her role as Yelena Belova in Marvel’s ‘Thunderbolts.’ The film explores Yelena’s journey of grief following her sister Natasha’s death and emphasizes emotional authenticity. Pugh highlights the importance of vulnerability in storytelling, aiming to present relatable characters who face mental health challenges amidst action-packed narratives, set to release soon.

Los Angeles – Florence Pugh recently discussed her character Yelena Belova in the highly anticipated Marvel film ‘Thunderbolts.’ The film, set to hit theaters on May 2, 2025, places Yelena as a central figure, particularly in the aftermath of her sister Natasha Romanoff’s sacrifice in ‘Avengers: Endgame.’

In this upcoming installment, Yelena is portrayed grappling with profound feelings of loss and trauma following Natasha’s death. The narrative intricately explores Yelena’s emotional journey as she transitions from being excited about life to confronting her purpose in a world that feels altered and heavy with grief. Pugh emphasizes that the film aims to portray the significance of vulnerability and emotional authenticity, particularly concerning themes of grief and trauma.

The relationship between Yelena and her sister Natasha stands as a pivotal element within the film. Pugh notes that this bond significantly influences Yelena’s emotional depth and the overall character development throughout the storyline. The film aims to honor Yelena’s ongoing journey as it reflects on the loss she faces and its impact on her psyche.

‘Thunderbolts’ features Yelena along with a group of morally ambiguous characters, which adds layers to the narrative as they embark on a dangerous mission. This ensemble of seven disillusioned individuals, each confronting their pasts, promises to explore complex interpersonal dynamics that emerge from shared experiences of tragedy and loss.

Pugh, along with her co-star David Harbour, has been vocal about the necessity for the film to showcase emotional complexity and depth in its characters. This collaborative effort among the cast and crew is aimed at creating a story that resonates with the audience, moving beyond typical superhero narratives to touch on vital themes of mental health.

As Pugh reflects on Yelena’s evolution since her previous appearance in ‘Hawkeye’, she indicates that the character has experienced a significant emotional shift. Yelena’s loss of excitement and passion mirrors her struggle with emotional fulfillment after a profound personal tragedy. The film addresses mental health issues and the importance of demonstrating emotional authenticity, allowing viewers to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

Moreover, Pugh emphasizes the need for the audience to recognize the histories that shape these characters, particularly how moments of tragedy influence interpersonal conflicts. This foundational understanding is crucial for comprehending Yelena’s role within the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Pugh aims to break the mold within the superhero genre, which often lacks portrayals of vulnerability and realism. By presenting a character that feels relatable and human in the face of grief, she hopes to offer both entertainment and a meaningful reflection on the struggles surrounding loss and mental health.

As excitement builds in the lead-up to the film’s release, ‘Thunderbolts’ promises to deliver a narrative that not only showcases thrilling superhero action but also a profound exploration of emotional depth and the human experience.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Screen Rant
• Daily Northwestern
• E! Online
• Deadline
• USA Today
• Wikipedia: Grief
• Google Search: Florence Pugh Thunderbolts
• Google Scholar: Mental Health in Cinema
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Grief
• Google News: Thunderbolts