Discover Buck Barnes’ journey and how his future will change starting with “Thunderbolts” throughout his appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
At the heart of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Bucky Barnes, a pivotal character in the Captain America stories, has traveled a winding path. Despite being a central figure in the early stages of the MCU, Buck has been relegated to a supporting role, often underplayed or even made for cheap jokes. This disturbing trend must find an end in Thunderbolts.
The friendship between Steve Rogers and Buck Barnes, a staple of the Captain America movies, didn’t get the closure it deserved in “Avengers: Endgame.” This unsatisfying outcome deprives Bucky of an emotional anchor in the plot, weakening his strength of character.
An incomplete healing journey
“The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” takes the opportunity to explore Bucky’s healing process after an assassin is brainwashed by Hydra. However, the series focused more on Sam Wilson’s transformation into the new Captain America, leaving Bucky’s arc incomplete and rushed.
“Guardians of the Galaxy Christmas Special” takes the humor into suspenseful territory by turning Bucky’s disability into a joke when Nebula gives her arm to Rocket Raccoon. This treatment is in stark contrast to the treatment of other MCU heroes’ disabilities, such as Tony Stark’s PTSD in “Iron Man 3” and Clint Barton’s hearing impairment in “Hawkeye.”
Unexpected leadership and pending redemption
“Thunder” features Bucky as the leader of a group of anti-heroes and villains despite his heroic actions after being freed from Hydra. This film represents a crucial opportunity for Marvel to give Marvel its own narrative arc and redeem years of wasted character development.
“Thunder” has the potential to turn Bucky into a true MCU hero without having to sacrifice his heroism. If Marvel takes this opportunity, it could make up for the time the character was marginalized and underrated.
Bucky in the Captain Trilogy
Bucky Barnes, better known as the Winter Soldier, has undergone a major transformation since entering the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). His journey that began in “Captain America: The First Avenger” transformed him from a loyal soldier and best friend of Steve Rogers (Captain America) to a complex anti-hero.
In “The First Avenger”, Bucky is introduced as Steve Rogers’ best friend and unwavering partner. His apparent death marked a turning point in Steve’s story, prompting him to become an even more determined hero. However, in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier”, Bucky returns, this time as the Winter Soldier, an assassin brainwashed by Hadhra. This twist reveals his duality and inner conflict, making him a tragic character and deeply affected by Hydra’s manipulations.
In “Captain America: Civil War”, Bucky faces the consequences of his actions as the Winter Soldier and fights to regain his identity and freedom. The film explores her relationship with Steve and her inner struggle to redeem herself. Despite being persecuted and mistreated, he shows signs of bravery and sacrifice to help save the world from the worst threat.
The evolution of Buck Barnes in the MCU has made him a multi-faceted and fascinating character. His transformation from loyal soldier to tormented anti-hero highlights his complexity and humanity, making him one of the most interesting and dynamic characters in the saga. Their story is a quest for redemption and identity that reflects themes of loyalty, friendship and the struggle to overcome oppression.