Sebastian Stan has provided intriguing insights regarding Bucky Barnes’ costume in the upcoming film Thunderbolts. This leads to a compelling question: why did Marvel choose to forgo a flamboyant outfit for Bucky, unlike many of his fellow MCU heroes? Since his last appearance alongside Sam Wilson in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier in 2021, where he grappled with accepting the legacy of Captain America, Bucky’s absence from the franchise has been notable. In that series, Bucky navigated complex emotions, taking steps to reconcile his violent past and engage in personal healing through therapy.
However, it seems that Thunderbolts could challenge any semblance of peace Bucky has attained. While specific plot details remain under wraps, hints within the trailer suggest Bucky’s dark history as the Winter Soldier may rear its head once more. This raises the question of whether Bucky can find resolution by the film’s conclusion. The costume—or more accurately, the absence of an elaborate costume—hints at deeper layers within Bucky’s narrative.
The Importance of a Character’s Costume
Costumes Tell Stories
During a recent interview with Vogue for Milan Fashion Week, Stan discussed the evolution of Bucky’s character over his 15 years with Marvel, explaining the significance of costumes. In Stan’s view, the attire worn by characters is a powerful medium for storytelling, revealing much about their identities and histories. This philosophy resonates strongly with Bucky Barnes’ journey:
“Costumes and a character’s wardrobe, or how they dress, really tells a story, and it tells a lot about that particular character, about the person. So I take the wardrobe very seriously.”
Bucky’s character has experienced dramatic shifts in presentation throughout the series. Initially, he appears in a polished military uniform, embodying heroism, but transforms into the Winter Soldier—a more subdued figure characterized by a rugged appearance and a mask that hides his identity. Such contrasts provide insight into Bucky’s emotional turmoil and moral struggles. Observing his attire in Thunderbolts can lead to valuable interpretations of his Character’s forthcoming development.
Bucky’s Unassuming Outfit in Thunderbolts
Bucky Embodies a Normal Civilian Look
The Thunderbolts trailer showcases an ensemble of characters engaged in covert operations, many of whom don impressive superhero costumes, further complicating their dynamic. Notably, Bucky Barnes and Bob are the only two characters without costumes. While Bob is likely to undergo a metamorphosis into a more expressive role, Bucky’s choice to wear understated black attire contrasts sharply with the vibrant ensembles of his teammates. Subsequently, his characterization appears rooted in a desire to distance himself from his past, showcasing a profound divergence from the ornate superhero costumes typically embraced in the MCU.
Analyzing Bucky’s Lack of Superhero Attire
Bucky’s Journey of Renunciation
Examining Bucky’s narrative arc in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier can elucidate his choice of attire in Thunderbolts. The series emphasizes Bucky’s struggles to leave behind his identity as the Winter Soldier while his ally, Sam Wilson, embraces his new role as Captain America. Bucky’s choice to dress like a civilian signifies his desire to shed the shadows of his past. This portrayal contrasts sharply with Sam’s triumphant acceptance of his newfound identity through a vibrant costume.
As Bucky navigates the complex landscape of being a senator in Thunderbolts, his understated look may suggest a longing for normalcy amidst turmoil. However, the unfolding narrative could show a return to his darker roots, given the symbolism of his longer hair and the potential rekindling of his violent history. The interplay of these elements suggests that the film’s direction might ultimately lead to a decision point for Bucky—one that may shape his identity moving forward.
Could Bucky Embrace a New Superhero Identity in Thunderbolts?
Bucky’s Possible Paths: Death or Rebirth
As Thunderbolts is expected to explore the psychological aspects of its core characters, audiences are left pondering the potential outcomes. The notable absence of the character Taskmaster in the trailer may imply a grim fate, suggesting that characters will face life-changing experiences or, conceivably, death. Given Bucky’s long-standing presence in the MCU, his character appears particularly susceptible to an impactful narrative arc—perhaps culminating in a heroic demise amidst an ensemble of characters confronting their pasts.
Nonetheless, with the prospect of being drawn back into conflict, Bucky may instead opt to reclaim a heroic identity. The idea of him donning a superhero costume may serve as a culmination of his journey and a renunciation of his Winter Soldier past. The potential resurrection of his “White Wolf”persona, which holds significance among the Wakandans, could set the stage for an emotional and empowering resolution.
Ultimately, Thunderbolts has the potential to reshape Bucky Barnes’ identity and narrative significantly. Observers eagerly await the revelations that await in the film’s climax.
Source: TikTok/Vogue
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