While Marvel’s Thunderbolts* was almost universally praised by both critics and fans, the film’s handling of one returning MCU character drew noticeable criticism.
I’m referring, of course, to Taskmaster, who was portrayed by Olga Kurylenko.
Photo: @ImAFilmEditor
As a quick refresher, a version of Taskmaster was first introduced in Black Widow. Unlike the character’s Marvel Comics counterpart, the MCU’s Taskmaster was not Tony Masters, but Antonia Dreykov—the daughter of General Dreykov.
After being severely injured during an assassination attempt on her father, Antonia was fitted with cybernetic implants that not only controlled her body and mind but also granted her photographic reflexes, allowing her to perfectly mimic the fighting styles of others.
Black Widow. Image: Marvel
Following her rise to become a Red Room commander, Taskmaster was eventually exposed to the Red Dust by Natasha Romanoff, freeing her from mind control and restoring her autonomy.
One of Marvel’s Most Controversial Deaths
By the time the character returned in Thunderbolts*, Taskmaster was working as an assassin for Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. Ultimately, she was betrayed by Valentina and killed by Ghost.
Source: Marvel Studios
After the release of Thunderbolts, fans of the character quickly started a “Justice for Taskmaster” campaign.
For her part, Olga Kurylenko admitted that she was disappointed with how Taskmaster’s story played out.
Photo: Marvel
Now, however, she has addressed the fan response to her character’s death.
“It Means a Lot”
During a recent interview with ComicBook Movie, Kurylenko revealed that she is aware of the social media controversy surrounding Taskmaster’s death and thanked fans for their support.
Photo: @ImAFilmEditor
“It means a lot and touches my heart. I’m very grateful,” Kurylenko said. “I didn’t expect such a following or the fight they’re putting on. It’s really sweet of them.”
#JusticeForTaskMaster
Not only has Kurylenko seen the online discussion, but she has also spoken with one of the people who helped lead the #JusticeForTaskmaster movement.
Photo: Marvel
“I’ve actually communicated with the guy who started this whole movement. He was posting on Instagram. I ended up answering him, and we’re directly in touch now,” Kurylenko explained. “I thanked him for his support, I just thought it was really kind.”
The villainous Taskmaster appears in the upcoming film “Black Widow.”
While it remains unlikely that Taskmaster’s death will somehow be undone, Kurylenko can take solace in the fact that fans believe her character deserved better.
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