11 Back To School Essentials For Surviving And Thriving In College

Jul 12, 2024

I fear there’s no other feeling like shopping for your college dorm. When it was finally my time to enter the world of dreaded 8AM lectures and wacky cafeteria lunch breaks with friends, all I could think about was curating the cutest room possible. And while cuteness surely is an important factor, practicality is, too. There are certain items I truly couldn’t live without that made navigating the first semester of college (and the semesters beyond) so much easier.

These 11 back-to-school items undoubtedly shaped my experience in a positive way, and if you’re someone shopping for college essentials (for yourself or your recent grad), now’s the perfect time to snag ‘em. Scroll on to see why I love them and recommend they’re a staple in every college kid’s life!

Amazon

Amazon Echo Dot 5th Gen

The Amazon Echo Dot does it all – it plays music, answers questions, sets alarms, and even pairs to different devices like lightbulbs, TVs, and phones to make daily routines easier. I definitely overused mine for playing my favorite songs at the time (oh, 2018 college era, how I miss you!), and the audio quality was just impeccable, even for such a small space like a dorm.

Amazon

ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher

Knowing I was going to be staying in an older dorm (I'm talking built in the early 1900's), I was absolutely set on getting a filtered water pitcher to stay hydrated and healthy. The hydration component is especially important for any college-goer in a hot climate. This pitcher holds 10 cups worth of water, all while filtering out harmful minerals, metals, and more for an ultra-pure taste.

Amazon

Eudele Shower Caddy 5-Pack

If you're lucky enough to have an in-suite dorm shower, these stainless steel bathroom organizers will save you the legwork of lugging a bulky toiletry tote back and forth. You won't have to make any holes to set them up, since they rely on a strong adhesive material to hold to the shower wall (dorm-friendly AF). This set comes with 2 caddies, 2 soap holders, and 1 toothbrush holder that can surely handle all your fave products!

Amazon

Roku Express HD Streaming Device

Missing the latest episode of your favorite TV shows is so not cool, even in between the college chaos. Stock up on this convenient streaming package from Roku to make sure you (and your new college pals) are entertained during every hangout! I really like the Roku set-up because it's easy to kickstart yourself, you can customize which platforms are included, and it's very affordable.

Amazon

Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker

No college morning is right without coffee. I'd fire this lil' baby up before every 8AM and even on late weeknight study sessions, and it truly saved me. I highly recommend the Keurig because of how easy it is to use – just pop in the compatible K-Cups, press a button, and voila: a hot, steaming cup of yummy coffee comes to the rescue. This model is also great because of its compact size, which you can slide between books on your desk or atop a dresser with minimal mess.

Amazon

JBL Tune Buds Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds

You truly could not catch me on campus without a pair of earbuds, and though I had to settle for (gasp!) the wired Apple headphones during my degree-getting era, I wish I'd had these wireless JBL buds handy. These boast several different noise cancelling modes to suit any sort of situation, from the library to the student union. They also have a battery life that gives you a whole 48 hours of listening time, so you can be sure they won't die out during a hyper-focused study sesh or workout.

Amazon

Dash Tasti-Crisp Electric Air Fryer Oven

Who needs cafeteria food when you have a whole air fryer, am I right? (Sorry, mom and dad – I still frequented the food hall despite my unhealthy attachment to this appliance.) So yes, the air fryer was my dorm room savior after long nights out with friends. I could heat up frozen fries or tots with ease, and I even found myself using it to conveniently heat up leftovers when I had them. This 2.6-quart-sized model is the perfect size for a small dorm room and shouldn't cause any problems in the way of housing rules, since it doesn't use an actual flame to function. Don't be surprised if your RA comes knocking on your door to snag some delicious air-fried snacks.

Amazon

Arslo Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle

Like I said, hydration is key to conquering the day as a college kid. I wouldn't leave my dorm without a full, ice-cold bottle. I especially love any kind of insulated bottle like this, since the contents will stay that way for a long time. This one is shoppable in different sizes like 18, 24, 32, and 40 ounces to suit your personal needs. It comes complete with a set of straws and lids, so it supports however you like to sip!

Amazon

Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9500 Electric Toothbrush

I'm not sure why, but I really got into my oral hygiene game in my college years. This electric toothbrush was (and continues to be) a game-changer for me! It has 5 brushing modes and 3 intensity levels to customize your brushing experience. I also adore that it comes with a compact carrying case, which came in handy when I wanted to leave my dorm for weekend visits back home. It's genuinely lasted me years, so I'd say it's a very apt investment.

Amazon

Ozzptuu Bedside Storage Caddy

Depending on your specific dorm set-up, you may have to hoist your oh-so glamorous twin-sized bed up a bit to make room for other furniture and appliances. I certainly chose to do so, and a beside caddy like this made all the difference when I needed something like lip balm or earplugs in the middle of the night. This one is fitted with plenty of pockets for your phone, chargers, pens, pencils, books, and practically whatever you want to put in it. It hangs off the bed railing with two study hooks!

Amazon

Levoit Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Like it or not, you've gotta keep your dorm room clean. This cordless vacuum kept things so nice and tidy for me all throughout my college years (even when I moved from the dorms to an apartment), and I couldn't recommend it more. In addition to the traditional roller attachment, there's a few more brushes that you can use to tackle hairy spots and dusty corners, plus it's impressively flexible so you can reach every other nook and cranny. It's fairly compact, too, so it'll fit nicely within your closet for safe-keeping.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

18 Best-Selling Products You Can Get For So Cheap This Prime Day

There are tons of things on sale for Prime Day this year, but you don't have to miss out on the savings if you're not necessarily planning to splurge on big-ticket items. Cleaning products and everyday essentials are going for the exact same discount as that fancy espresso machine you've been eyeing, and sometimes more! Prime Day offers the perfect chance for you to stock up on more practical purchases – from paper towels to vitamins – for less-than-typical prices. In case you need help completing your Prime Day checklist, let this post serve as the ultimate guide to the cleaning products, health + wellness essentials, and other miscellaneous home goods that are often left behind.

Cleaning Products

Amazon

Glad Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags

$15, was $23

Taking out the trash surely isn't the most glamorous of all household chores, but it is necessary. These expertly-designed Glad bags make the task more manageable with unparalleled durability and stretch, two layers of leak protection, and a fresh Febreze scent. Stock up for 35% off during Prime Day.

Amazon

Blueland Toilet Bowl Cleaner Starter Set

$23, was $29

These plastic-free tabs make cleaning your toilet bowl as easy as 'drop and flush.' The fizzy formula dissolves to remove every type of blemish from rust and mineral deposits to limescale and hard water. You'll enjoy the 100% natural lemon-cedar fragrance after every cleaning sesh!

Amazon

Dawn Platinum Powerwash Dish Spray

$12, was $18

This powerful dish soap comes in a satisfying spray format, helping to erase hefty grease stains and food residue in a fraction of the time it'd take if you used a traditional liquid dish soap. You can use it beyond dirty dishes too: it works on kitchen counters, laundry stains, and grills.

Amazon

Amazon Basics 2-Ply Flex-Sheets Paper Towels

$4, was $5

For an "affordable and effective" clean, opt to order this cheap 2-pack of paper towel rolls that can handle everyday messes in a single tear for Prime Day.

Amazon

Clorox Free & Clear Compostable Cleaning Wipes

$14, was $18

These at-home compost-friendly Clorox wipes boast the Safer Choice stamp of approval from the EPA, so they're certifiably safe to use around kids, pets, and food. They work on a variety of surfaces to clean and disinfect whatever they come in contact with. We love using these for a quick and easy clean-up session around the kitchen and bathroom before guests come over!

Amazon

Natural Kitchen Sponges 12-Pack

$14, was $17

You won't need to do a restock on kitchen sponges for a while after snagging this handy 12-pack! They're made of plant-based fibers that not only supply a solid clean, but also prevent excess bacteria growth because of their extra-porous texture. After a sponge has reached the end of its lifespan, you can compost the white cellulose layer!

Amazon

Blueland Laundry Detergent Tablets

$34, was $44

It only takes one of these 100% plastic-free detergent tablets to really freshen up a load of laundry. They're produced with enzymes proven to lift tough stains, plus the formula is completely hypoallergenic, so it's safe to use for kids' and pet laundry. This pack can tackle 120 rounds!

Amazon

Clorox Disinfecting All-Purpose Cleaner

$12, was $15

Though these all-purpose cleaning sprays have zero bleach, they still effectively tackle grease, grime, and soap scum with ease. They provide the powerful clean you're looking for around the kitchen, bathroom, and more – the formula is proven to kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, including COVID-19. Snag the trio for only $4 a bottle during Prime Day!

Amazon

Windex Glass & Window Cleaner

$3, was $4

Windex is an absolutely undeniable staple for any cleaning lineup. It can wipe away dirt, smudges, fingerprints, and more, leaving a streak-free shine every time. Stock up for just $3 this Prime Day.

Vitamins + Supplements

Amazon

Ritual Multivitamin

$26, was $37

This vegan, sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and soy-free multivitamin formula brings a daily dose vitamins B12, D, E, and K12 along with folate, iron, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and boron. It's verified by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), a mark that less than 1% of multivitamins have. The capsules are also Non-GMO Project-verified, ensuring no heavy metals, major allergens, or microbes are present.

Amazon

Sugarbear Hair Vitamin Gummies

$24, was $39

These vitamin gummies claim to support healthy hair and nails through 6000 mcg of biotin, vitamins D, E, and B6, plus folate, calcium, zinc, sodium, iodine and a proprietary mix of European elderberry, inositol, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids. Each plant-based gummy has only 1 gram of sugar and 10 calories to suit a healthy routine. Most users have noticed a difference after 3 months of consistent use!

Amazon

OLLY Women's Multivitamin Gummies

$14, was $17

Another exceptional multivitamin, these OLLY gummies contain vitamins A, B, C, D, and E to help fight free radicals, support bone health, and amp up cellular energy production. There's even 500% of your daily value of biotin in each dose to encourage healthy hair, skin, and nails! They can help "fill in the gaps" of your eating habits to deliver all the nutrients your body needs on the daily.

Amazon

Lemme Matcha Superfood Energy Gummies

$24, was $30

These matcha-infused gummies give you a good boost of non-jittery energy when you need it most – think for that classic afternoon slump or post-workweek outing! They're made with organic matcha, vitamin B12, and CoQ10, a "powerful" antioxidant and coenzyme that assists in energy production. Each gummy is vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, gelatin-free, and has no high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, or synthetic colors.

Amazon

Nature's Bounty Biotin

$7, was $20

For an affordable hair, skin, and nail vitamin, biotin is the way to go. In addition to the physical benefits, it can also help support a healthy nervous system and metabolism.

Amazon

Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder

$34, was $42

Our favorite protein powder is on sale for Prime Day at 20% off! One serving contains 21 grams of plant-based protein, 1 gram of sugar, plus 6 grams of prebiotics and fiber and 9 essential amino acids. You can use it across shakes, smoothies, overnight oats, and even baked goods to get your protein fix. It's shoppable in 9 flavors, but our go-to is this vanilla iteration.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Amazon

Amazon Basics 24-Pack Rechargeable AA Batteries

$19, was $24

You never know when you're gonna need some extra batteries, so make sure you have some spares handy by stocking up with this 20% off Prime Day deal! These are rechargeable, too, ensuring you never run out of energy.

Amazon

Amazon Elements Baby Wipes

$19, was $22

A whole 810 wipes for $19? Count us in. These gentle, non-flushable baby wipes are formulated without fragrances, alchohol, bronopol, dyes, parabens, and pthalates, ensuring a safe clean for your little one every time.

Amazon

Levoit Air Purifier

$80, was $100

Though t's a bit of a bigger purchase, having an air purifier like this one at home is a super smart investment, especially if you are prone to environmental allergies (or just want to keep your place smelling fresh and clean). This compact model comes complete with a HEPA-grade filter that captures smoke, dust, dander, and more up to 1,095 square feet of space.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Hold Up, Did Rebecca Yarros' First 'Onxy Storm' Excerpt Just Tease Violet Sorrengail's True Identity?

Fans of Fourth Wing are on pins and needles because Rebecca Yarros just announced she's finished writing the third book in the Empyrean series! It's us, we're fans — along with over half of BookTok.

We can't believe we're getting closer to reading more about Violet Sorrengail's journey, but we know you have a ton of burning questions about the release date for Book No. 3.

We may not have all the answers, but we've done a little digging to share as much as we can because who doesn't want to know what Rebecca Yarros has been up to?

I'm new to the Empyrean series. Are "Fourth Wing" and "Iron Flame" really worth reading?

Amazon

I'm not going to lie to you. The editorial team, including myself, are extremely biased about Fourth Wingand Iron Flame. From my perspective, I think these are great books for anyone who had the pleasure of growing up during the great Harry Potter era and moved on to watchingGame of Thrones and House of Dragons.

Did she announce the name of book no. 3?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

YES! Book No. 3 is titled Oynx Storm.

Knowing what we do about the manifestation of Violet's powers, I think this could hint she's going to play an even larger role in the series. According to a fan theory shared on TikTok(via Empyrean Riders), it's believed that Violet and Xaden Riorson are actually gods. Stay with me here.

Empyrean Riders noted that Violet's last name means heavenly and that she's able to control time thanks to her connection to the young dragon Andarna (I love her so much!). That sounds pretty god-like to me.

And when asked which two Taylor Swift songs describe Onyx Storm, Rebecca Yarros chose "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" from The Tortured Poets Department and "So It Goes..." from Reputation. "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" is one of Taylor's most powerful songs and definitely translates the idea that Violet's powers are going to be stronger than ever, while "So It Goes..." is equal parts suspense and seduction, and is TOTALLY about "all the pieces fall right into place" to get together with the right person.

There's so much more to unpack so I suggest grabbing a yummy snack while you fall down the rabbit hole. All I'm sure of is that Onyx Storm is going to leave our emotions in shambles just like Fourth Wing and Iron Flame did.

When did Rebecca Yarros announce she's done writing book no. 3 in the series?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

On June 17, Rebecca Yarros shared this image of her laptop to indicate she'd finished the third book in the Empyrean series.

She wrote, "(Pic from one of the very many locations in which this book was written)," towards the end of the caption before adding a few relevant hashtags to it.

When will Onxy Storm be available for purchase?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

Rebecca Yarros exclusively told Good Morning America that fans can expect the book to hit shelves January 21, 2025! That gives us a little over six months to prepare our emotions for what's sure to be a storm of a book.

She said, "There will be politics, new adventures, old enemies and of course, dragons." There's no way she could forget the dragons because I'd willingly riot over them. They deserve to have their stories told forever.

As luck would have it, Cosmopolitan received an exciting first look at what's to come in Onyx Storm. The excerpt begins with Violet realizing the Venin have found their way into Basgiath War College and are wreaking havoc. Alongside Rhiannon, Sawyer, and Ridoc, she races to stop the Venin from releasing Jack Barlowe from his prison cell.

However, Violet's shocked when she discovered one of the "dark wielders" has a long silver braid that closely resembles her own. Before she can fully react, the woman disappears. According to Screen Rant, there are possible theories about why Violet saw her and what this means for her growing power.

Towards the end of the excerpt, Violet discovers the Venin want to capture her too. Also, Xaden makes his long-awaited appearance and it's clear their playful banter in the face of danger hasn't changed. That he hasn't fully changed into the Venin Violet's used to seeing.

I officially can't wait to read the rest of the book in January!

Has Rebecca Yarros revealed the cover for Onyx Storm?

Today/Bree Archer, Elizabeth Turner Stokes for Entangled Publishing

Onyx Storm

Yes!

TODAY received an exclusive look at the cover for Onyx Storm and it doesn't disappoint! Unlike its predecessors, it appears Rebecca Yarros is hinting that darker events will take place.

Fans of the Empyrean series aren't the only ones who are excited to see what fate has in store for our favorite characters though. In a statement to TODAY, Rebecca revealed how elated she is to be working on the series again. "It's amazing to be back with these characters again. She also said, ""I can't wait for readers to see what Violet, Xaden, and the rest of the quadrant have in store for them in Onyx Storm!"

Are you excited for the release of Onyx Storm? Follow us on Facebook for more entertainment news!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

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12 New Balance Kids Styles To Help Your Littles Look Their Best

Whether the kiddo in your life needs new back to school swag or you're getting a jump on this year's holiday shopping, New Balance is the place to look! From stylish sneakers to comfy clothes, they've definitely got something your little one will love. We're happy to share an exclusive discount code you can use at checkout to save some $ on your next spree: use code BRITCO15 for 15% of kids' products plus free shipping!

We've sifted through the New Balance kids section for the coolest picks that'll ensure your kid looks and feels their best – here are our favorites!

Kids' Shoes

New Balance

2002 Sneaker

These athletic sneaks are designed to provide "essential cushioning" and shock absorption with ample support around the durable midsole and outsole. They're perfect for the kiddo that can't stay away from the playground since they stay on securely with a lace-up closure. Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

New Balance

9060 Sneaker

These stylish shoes are equally supportive and soft, all while boasting some eye-catching, tech-inspired details. Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

New Balance

480 Sneaker

For a more fashion-forward look, the 480's basketball-inspired silhouette can work on and off the court. The rubber outsole is impressively durable, providing a good amount of traction in every step. Available in little kid and big kid sizes.

New Balance

530 Sneaker

The New Balance 530s are truly iconic. The 2000's design is made to absorb any sort of impact through a combination of cushioning and compression resistance that runs throughout the entire shoe, so your kiddo will definitely feel comfortable wearing them as an everyday style! Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

New Balance

574 Sneaker

This "reliable" sneaker takes on road and trail shoe details in the lightweight EVA foam midsole cushioning and mesh paneling up top for added breathability. They currently come in 4 other colorways to suit your kiddo's personal style! Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

New Balance

990V6 Hook & Loop Sneaker

Designed for toddlers & babies as well as little kids, these velcro-able sneakers provide a nice and easy on-and-off option for busy bees. The leather upper has reflective details for an unmissable look, plus the shoe is appropriately padded throughout for unmatched comfort.

New Balance

327 New-B Hook & Loop Sneaker

These lil' sneakers boast a "generous" toe box and instep that's designed specifically to support any first-walker's needs. The outer layers are durable, so they'll stand up nicely to daily wear. Available in toddler & babies, little kid, and big kid sizes.

Kids' Clothing

New Balance

BB Global Crew

This 80% cotton and 20% polyester crewneck pullover is fitted with a brushed-back fleece material for a "soft and cozy feel." It makes the perfect fall and winter layer for your kiddo to bring to school on chilly days!

New Balance

CDL Floral Shoe Graphic T-Shirt

We want this adorable graphic tee for ourselves! The bold pink and yellow design will give your little one's look some serious street cred, since it features the iconic New Balance logo. Wears well with any NB sneaker!

New Balance

Brush Back Circle Floral Graphic Crew

This girly crewneck is also designed with a super-soft brushed-back fleece to keep 'em undeniably comfy and cozy.

New Balance

French Terry Small Logo Short

These soft shorts designed with an adjustable drawstring and side pockets are the ultimate school day uniform!

New Balance

Queue Tee

Another stylish graphic tee option, this pick available in kids' sizes XS-XL pairs seamlessly with anything from jeans to gym shorts.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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WHICH Movie Had Kate Winslet "Sh—ing" Herself?!

Kate Winslet is THE Hollywood actress to me. Not only has she starred in box office smashes like Titanic and Avatar: Way of Water, but she's proven her acting chops in breakout indie flicks and provided mothers and daughters everywhere with eternal Christmas movie nights thanks to The Holiday. But the actress' consistently viral kindness, her dedication to embracing her natural beauty, and her sophistication don't mean she always feels confident. Kate Winslet just spilled on the one movie from her career that had her "sh—ing" herself, and I just had to dive in.

Here's what Kate Winslet had to say about her scariest movie experience ever.

Kate Winslet made a name for herself with Titanic, Sense & Sensibility, and The Holiday.
However those movies aren't the film she wants fans to ask about!
The actress spills on the movies she's proud of, and the one job that had her "sh—ing myself."

Talking to Vanity Fair for her newest film Lee, Kate Winslet revealed one project she wishes fans asked about more is Iris. The 2001 film stars Kate as a young Iris Murdoch against Judi Dench's older counterpart. And for Kate, nothing was more terrifying than working with such a wonderful actress.

"People don’t really ask me about Iris. It’s such a delicate film," she says. "It was the first thing I had done after having my daughter. Going to work with a baby, I’m playing Iris Murdoch, looking to Judi Dench’s older Iris Murdoch — I was sh—ting myself."

Considering how nervous I get when I meet my heroes, I can only imagine what it was like to meet Dame Judi Dench. Talk about a dream! Another film Kate loves is Revolutionary Road, and not just because she got to reunite with Leonardo DiCaprio.

"The thing that people say is, 'You got to work with Leo again.' Then they go off on the whole Leo tangent, which I totally understand," she says of the film, which follows an ambitious couple who find themselves trapped in the reality of 1950s suburbia. "But Revolutionary Road — f—king hell, it just knocked us all sideways. Unbelievably difficult material. I was very proud of that film and what Leo and I were able to create as Frank and April. It was so brutal."

The process for getting Lee into the world sounds equally brutal, considering Kate started working on it over a decade ago. As producer, Kate tells Vanity Fair she doesn't mind the fact she's done more for the film than if she only had an acting credit. "That has felt very necessary for this film. But it’s also just really important to me," she says. "It’s important to me that people know that it’s out there and might feel compelled to go and see it."

Because it turns out, commercial success or stardom on its own doesn't actually help your movie get made! "It doesn’t matter who you are," she says. "No one’s going to go, 'Oh, I’ll just back that pony because she was in Titanic.' It doesn’t happen that way, and I never expected that. That’s really important to say."

"I've gotten older and I’ve learned more and felt more confident in myself about whether or not I could actually do it," she adds. "It’s not something I would’ve done had I not felt so passionately about the subject, and Lee was just—she wouldn’t let me go."

Let us know your favorite Kate Winslet movies in the comments, and since we've officially entered cozy season, check out Why The Holiday Movie Ending Is The Most Important Scene while you're at it!

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Here's A New Look At Florence Pugh's Return As Yelena Belova

Marvel movies are known for their heroes and their hopeful outlook on the world. But in 2025, we're getting a brand new team: the Thunderbolts. This team is made up of antiheroes and former villains, and it's sure to be the wackiest and strangest, as well as one of the most memorable, superhero movies we've seen in recent years.

Keep reading for the latest news on Thunderbolts* before it hits theaters in 2025.

Marvel Studios/YouTube

Thunderbolts* comes out this May, and the cast just showed off some brand new footage at the D23 convention — and thanks to the new 'Celebrating 85 Years' spot, we have the first look too!

We get a look at Bucky Barnes, The Red Guardian, John Walker, and Ghost. Plus, Yelena Belova, of course. This heartbreaking detail about Yelena's new look connects Florence Pugh's Yelena to Scarlett Johansson's Natashaand I'm WEEPING.

Marvel Studios/Walt Disney Studios

And at D23 Brazil, we got a brand new look at my new favorite team. "There’s something in this film, in terms of superpowers and superheroes, that shows that our superpowers lie in how ‘broken’ we are," David Harbour said at the event. "As if our superpowers came from our relationships.”

What is the plot of Thunderbolts?

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

Thunderbolts* Plot

Consider Thunderbolts* to be The Avengers' edgy younger sibling. The movie follows Yelena Belova (who we know off the bat is a "depressed assassin" thanks to a Marvel Studios press release). She's joined by Bucky Barnes, The Red Guardian, and John Walker. Based on a leak, it looks like we'll see this group of misfits team up against Valentina Allegra de Fontaine after she sends them on a deadly mission.

Thunderbolts* Release Date

Jesse Grant/Disney

Thunderbolts* Release Date

Thunderbolts* hits theaters May 2, 2025.

Who's on the Thunderbolts team?

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

Thunderbolts* Cast

Thunderbolts* stars Florence Pugh, Geraldine Viswanathan, Lewis Pullman, Hannah John-Kamen, Wyatt Russell, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Sebastian Stan, and David Harbour.

This is a huge cast, and Viswanathan just revealed how crazy the first day of filming was. “My first day didn’t feel real," she tells Vanity Fair. "I felt this extra pressure of, ‘Know your lines, babe. You can’t really play around like you usually do.’"

Historically, sci-fi fans haven't been kind to actresses in their favorite projects (remember when Star Wars fans bullied Kelly Marie Tran off social media?). But Viswanathan is already thinking ahead. “If it’s overwhelming, I’ll log off. But I like discourse around pop culture,” she says. “[Thunderbolts*] felt a little bit edgier and fresher, more existential and dark.”

Jesse Grant/Disney

The rest of the cast also enjoyed working together. “Everyone is going to f—kin’ love me! It’s really, really, really fun to be with a group of actors that you have a good time with," Wyatt Russell says at Comic Con (via Variety), while David Harbour adds, “Florence Pugh [is] just electric to work with. There’s warmth and humor, but there’s also a lot of pathos.”

“This is why we can't stop laughing together, because we genuinely just had such a wonderful time with each other and we've loved working with one another," Pugh tells People. “I feel like this is something that we've never seen before from Marvel...it's a very open and honest and truthful idea. And I'm just really excited for people to watch it.”

Are you excited for this brand new chapter in the MCU? I really feel like Thunderbolts* will usher in a whole new generation of fans and I, for one, CANNOT WAIT! Let us know your thoughts on Facebook.

Lead images via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

This post has been updated.

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