Disney boss Bob Iger admits Marvel “lost a little focus by making too much,” and says Thunderbolts is “the first and best example” of “better quality” after refocusing on movies

Disney CEO Bob Iger has stated that Thunderbolts* is the “primary and finest example” of the MCU’s revitalization, as Marvel Studios shifts its emphasis back to producing fewer, yet higher-quality films rather than a multitude of streaming series.

During a conference call with financial analysts (per Deadline), Iger remarked that Disney’s “enthusiasm to inundate our streaming service with excess content” was a mistake, echoing previous statements about the company’s initiative to launch numerous Marvel and Star Wars series following the launch of Disney Plus.

“In our enthusiasm to inundate our streaming platform with excess content, we called upon all of our creative resources, including Marvel, to generate a lot more,” Iger explained. “We’ve also come to realize over time that volume does not always lead to quality. Honestly, we all acknowledged that we lost a bit of focus by producing too much. By streamlining efforts and directing Marvel to concentrate more on its films, we believe this will improve quality. I believe the first and finest illustration of this is Thunderbolts*.”

Thunderbolts* (which has been playfully retitled New Avengers due to a plot twist) has garnered favorable reviews from both critics and audiences, with Iger himself highlighting it as a symbol of the trajectory in which Marvel Studios is moving.

Notably, both Thunderbolts* and its upcoming sequel, July’s Fantastic Four: First Steps, have emphasized their filmmaking quality along with compelling narratives as reasons for fatigued viewers to revisit theaters, with Iger claiming the forthcoming lineup of Marvel films is “the finest I have witnessed” since 2019’s hugely successful Avengers: Endgame concluded the initial saga of the MCU.

Take a look at our review of Thunderbolts*, also known as New Avengers, which is currently in theaters and wrapping up Marvel Phase 5. Phase 6 is set to commence with July 25’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps. For additional information, check out our guide on other upcoming Marvel films set to arrive in 2025 and beyond.