Get ready, Marvel fans! Malaysia is officially in the spotlight as the iconic Merdeka 118, the tallest building in the country and the second tallest in the world, makes its Hollywood debut in Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts* — hitting cinemas on 1 May 2025.
This cinematic milestone not only places Malaysia on the global stage, but also showcases the country’s architectural marvel in one of the film’s most thrilling sequences.
Standing at a breathtaking 678.9 metres, Merdeka 118 is no stranger to grandeur. But now, it’s about to gain international fame, thanks to an epic action scene involving none other than Florence Pugh, who reprises her role as Yelena Belova.
In a jaw-dropping moment, Yelena is seen leaping from the tower in a perfectly executed base jump that captures the majestic skyline of Kuala Lumpur.
Filmed in August 2024, this scene is one of the standout moments of the upcoming film. It wasn’t just another CGI-heavy sequence — this was the real deal, featuring high-stakes stunts and a true collaboration between Hollywood and Malaysian experts.
Director Jake Schreier revealed that Malaysian engineering firms were consulted to ensure safety and precision, especially in designing the stunt equipment.
The team prioritized realism and character-driven performance, making sure the entire base jump was done in one continuous shot with Florence fully in character.
“We focused on the base jump first before moving onto the stunt in full. Florence had to perform the stunt fully in character, with no cuts in between — she was so committed and pulled it off perfectly,” said Schreier.
Adding to the excitement, Malaysian talent also got the chance to shine. Actress Syaza Atheera appears in scenes shot across Kuala Lumpur, highlighting Marvel’s effort to include local production teams and talent.
This marks a major step forward for Malaysia’s growing reputation as a filming destination for international blockbusters.
To celebrate this cinematic moment, Merdeka 118 will light up in Thunderbolts style* from 29 April to 1 May 2025.
Fans and curious onlookers can enjoy a dazzling light show between 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM each night, as the building transforms into a towering tribute to Marvel’s most unconventional team of heroes. It’s not just a movie promotion — it’s a moment of national pride.
Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts brings together a group of antiheroes who are far from your typical Avengers lineup. The team includes Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, Ghost, Taskmaster, and John Walker, all of whom must confront their troubled pasts while being manipulated into a deadly mission by the shadowy Valentina Allegra de Fontaine.
It’s a story of redemption, dysfunction, and high-stakes action, perfect for fans who love the darker side of the Marvel Universe.
The film stars Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, Wyatt Russell, Olga Kurylenko, Lewis Pullman, Geraldine Viswanathan, Chris Bauer, and Wendell Pierce, alongside David Harbour, Hannah John-Kamen, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
Directed by Jake Schreier, and produced by Marvel boss Kevin Feige, the movie promises to deliver explosive action and unexpected emotional depth.
With Malaysia now immortalized in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the buzz is already growing. Social media is expected to light up with fans reacting to the Merdeka 118 stunt, and tourists may soon flock to see the site in person.
So whether you’re a Marvel superfan or simply a proud Malaysian, Thunderbolts (2025) offers something special — a thrilling reminder that local landmarks can shine on the biggest stages of all.
Catch Thunderbolts* in Malaysian cinemas starting 1 May 2025, and don’t forget to witness Merdeka 118’s special Thunderbolts-themed light show live from 29 April!
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