As of today, October 27, 2023, there are 33 Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films that make up the core narrative, spanning from 2008’s Iron Man to 2023’s The Marvels. This doesn’t include films made by other studios based on Marvel comics characters but which are not considered canon within the MCU.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe: A Chronological Journey
The MCU is divided into phases, each building upon the previous one and leading to larger, interconnected storylines. Understanding this structure is crucial for appreciating the sheer scale and ambition of the Marvel film franchise.
Phase One: The Infinity Saga Begins (2008-2012)
This phase established the foundational heroes and storylines. It introduced us to Tony Stark, Steve Rogers, Thor Odinson, and Bruce Banner, eventually uniting them as the Avengers.
- Iron Man (2008)
- The Incredible Hulk (2008)
- Iron Man 2 (2010)
- Thor (2011)
- Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
- The Avengers (2012)
Phase Two: Building the Universe (2013-2015)
Phase Two expanded the scope of the MCU, introducing cosmic elements and further developing existing characters.
- Iron Man 3 (2013)
- Thor: The Dark World (2013)
- Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
- Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
- Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
- Ant-Man (2015)
Phase Three: The Infinity War and Beyond (2016-2019)
This phase culminated in the epic Infinity War saga, a monumental crossover event that reshaped the MCU. It also introduced new heroes and explored previously untouched corners of the Marvel universe.
- Captain America: Civil War (2016)
- Doctor Strange (2016)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
- Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
- Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
- Black Panther (2018)
- Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
- Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
- Captain Marvel (2019)
- Avengers: Endgame (2019)
- Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
Phase Four: The Multiverse Saga Begins (2021-2022)
Phase Four explored the consequences of Endgame and introduced the concept of the multiverse, opening up limitless possibilities for future stories.
- Black Widow (2021)
- Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
- Eternals (2021)
- Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
- Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
- Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)
- Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
Phase Five: The Multiverse Continues (2023-Present)
Phase Five continues the multiverse storyline, setting up future conflicts and introducing new characters.
- Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
- The Marvels (2023)
Understanding the Wider Marvel Universe
It’s crucial to distinguish between movies within the official MCU canon and those based on Marvel characters but produced by other studios, such as Fox’s X-Men franchise or Sony’s Spider-Man universe (before their partnership with Marvel Studios). These films, while featuring familiar faces and stories, are not considered part of the interconnected narrative of the MCU. Similarly, Marvel Television series, while often connected, exist on a different tier of canon, with some events acknowledged and others overlooked by the films.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Marvel Movies
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Marvel Cinematic Universe films, providing further insight and context:
FAQ 1: What is the best order to watch the Marvel movies?
The best order for a first-time viewer is generally the release order. This allows you to experience the unfolding story and character development as intended by Marvel Studios. Alternatively, you can watch chronologically by the in-universe timeline, which can be found easily online, but be warned, this may reveal spoilers for later films.
FAQ 2: Are the Marvel TV shows considered canon?
The canonicity of Marvel Television shows like Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Daredevil is complex. While some elements and characters have crossed over, the movies don’t consistently acknowledge the events of these shows. The Marvel Studios-produced Disney+ series (e.g., WandaVision, Loki, Moon Knight) are definitively canon.
FAQ 3: What is the Infinity Saga?
The Infinity Saga encompasses Phases One, Two, and Three of the MCU. It revolves around the six Infinity Stones and Thanos’s quest to collect them and wipe out half of all life in the universe. It concluded with Avengers: Endgame.
FAQ 4: What is the Multiverse Saga?
The Multiverse Saga covers Phases Four, Five, and Six. It focuses on the concept of parallel universes and the threats arising from them, particularly involving Kang the Conqueror.
FAQ 5: Are the X-Men movies part of the MCU?
The original X-Men movies produced by Fox are NOT part of the MCU. However, with Disney’s acquisition of Fox, Marvel Studios now owns the rights to the X-Men and mutants are expected to integrate into the MCU, evidenced by Professor X’s appearance in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. How this integration will occur is still unfolding.
FAQ 6: What is the difference between Marvel Studios and Marvel Entertainment?
Marvel Studios is the film production company responsible for the MCU films. Marvel Entertainment is the parent company that owns Marvel Studios and oversees all aspects of Marvel’s media output, including comics, television, and video games.
FAQ 7: Will there be more Avengers movies?
Yes, two more Avengers movies are currently planned: Avengers: The Kang Dynasty and Avengers: Secret Wars. These films are intended to be the culmination of the Multiverse Saga.
FAQ 8: How many phases are planned for the MCU?
Currently, six phases have been publicly outlined. Marvel Studios has not officially announced plans beyond Phase Six.
FAQ 9: Where can I stream Marvel movies?
Most Marvel movies are available on Disney+. Some may also be available for rent or purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, and Apple TV.
FAQ 10: Do I need to watch all the movies to understand the MCU?
While you don’t need to watch every single movie, watching them in release order is highly recommended to fully appreciate the interconnectedness of the storylines and character development. Some films are more crucial to the overall narrative than others.
FAQ 11: What are the post-credit scenes and why are they important?
Post-credit scenes are short scenes that appear after the main credits roll. They often tease future storylines, introduce new characters, or provide humorous moments. They are crucial for understanding the long-term direction of the MCU.
FAQ 12: What upcoming Marvel movies are planned?
Beyond the current Phase Five lineup, several movies are in development, including Captain America: Brave New World, Thunderbolts, Blade, Deadpool 3, and Fantastic Four. Release dates are subject to change.