Marvel’s upcoming Thunderbolts movie will introduce one of the most complex and powerful characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe—The Sentry, played by Lewis Pullman. Recent trailers confirm that Pullman’s character, initially referred to as “Bob,” is actually Robert Reynolds, a superhero with godlike abilities and a terrifying dark side known as The Void. With the film set to release on May 2, 2025, fans are eager to learn more about this unpredictable force.
The Sentry’s Origins
Robert Reynolds was once an ordinary man struggling with mental health issues, including schizophrenia and anxiety. In the comics, he steals an experimental serum—originally meant to replicate the Super Soldier Serum—hoping to get high. Instead, he gains “the power of a million exploding suns”, transforming into The Sentry, a hero with strength rivaling Thor and the Hulk.
However, the serum also awakens The Void, a malevolent entity that exists within him. For every heroic act The Sentry performs, The Void counters it with destruction. This internal battle makes Reynolds one of Marvel’s most tragic and dangerous figures.
The Void’s Powers and Threat
The Void is not just an alter ego—it’s a cosmic-level threat. In the comics, The Void possesses all of The Sentry’s powers—superhuman strength, flight, energy projection, and near-invulnerability—but with a twisted, destructive nature.
Recent Thunderbolts trailers show The Void spreading darkness across New York, hinting at his ability to manipulate reality itself. One scene features Pullman’s character declaring:
“I am the Void. There’s no use fighting… You don’t know what I’m capable of. Maybe I need to show you.”
The Thunderbolts team, including Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), and John Walker (Wyatt Russell), appears unprepared to face such overwhelming power. As Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) warns:
“He’s invincible, all-powerful, stronger than all of the Avengers rolled into one.”
How The Void Fits Into Thunderbolts
The film’s plot remains under wraps, but clues suggest The Void will be the main antagonist. Early footage shows the Thunderbolts confronting Reynolds in a secret facility, possibly where his powers were tested or suppressed.
Given The Sentry’s unstable nature, the team may initially recruit him, only for The Void to break free. This mirrors Norman Osborn’s manipulation of The Sentry in the Dark Avengers comics, where The Void was unleashed as a weapon.
Lewis Pullman’s Casting and Future
Pullman was cast after Steven Yeun exited the project due to scheduling conflicts. His past roles—like the troubled Miles Miller in Bad Times at the El Royale and the heroic LT. Bob Floyd in Top Gun: Maverick—showcase his ability to balance vulnerability and intensity, making him ideal for this dual role.
Marvel has confirmed Pullman will return in Avengers: Doomsday, meaning The Sentry’s story won’t end with Thunderbolts. Speculation suggests he could become a key player—or weapon—in the battle against Doctor Doom (Robert Downey Jr.).
