Before the climactic showdown of Avengers: Endgame, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) had meticulously crafted a sprawling tapestry of interconnected stories. To answer the central question directly: There are 21 MCU movies that precede Avengers: Endgame. These films laid the groundwork for the epic battle that would define a generation of superhero cinema.
The MCU Landscape Pre-Endgame: A Phase-by-Phase Breakdown
The journey to Endgame wasn’t a single, linear path. It was a phased approach, carefully designed to introduce characters, establish cosmic lore, and gradually build the stakes. Understanding these phases is crucial to appreciating the scope and ambition of the MCU’s pre-Endgame world.
Phase One: Assembling the Avengers
Phase One introduced the core members of the original Avengers team, laying the foundation for the shared universe concept. These films proved that superhero team-ups could work on the big screen, a gamble that ultimately paid off handsomely.
- Iron Man (2008)
- The Incredible Hulk (2008)
- Iron Man 2 (2010)
- Thor (2011)
- Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
- The Avengers (2012)
Phase Two: Expanding the Universe
With the Avengers assembled, Phase Two delved deeper into cosmic threats and explored the consequences of the events of The Avengers. This phase also introduced new characters and storylines that would become increasingly important as the MCU progressed.
- 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 Saga Intensifies
Phase Three marked a significant escalation in stakes, culminating in the devastating events of Avengers: Infinity War. This phase introduced even more new heroes, explored complex moral dilemmas, and set the stage for the ultimate confrontation with Thanos.
- 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)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Pre-Endgame MCU
To further clarify the vast landscape of the pre-Endgame MCU, here are some frequently asked questions addressing common queries and providing deeper insights:
FAQ 1: In what order should I watch the MCU movies before Endgame?
There are two primary ways to watch the MCU movies: chronological order based on release date and chronological order based on the in-universe timeline. While release order is generally recommended for the first viewing as it preserves the intended narrative progression, watching in timeline order can offer a unique perspective. However, be warned: timeline order can sometimes reveal plot points from later movies.
FAQ 2: Are the MCU TV shows like Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. canon to the movies?
The canonicity of Marvel Television shows (like Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Daredevil, and Jessica Jones) to the MCU movies is a complex and often debated topic. While the shows initially acknowledged the movies, the films rarely reciprocated. Current consensus leans towards considering them “soft canon,” meaning they exist in a related but not strictly integrated continuity. Future projects might solidify or further complicate this status.
FAQ 3: What is the significance of the post-credit scenes in these movies?
Marvel movies are famous for their post-credit scenes, often teasing future storylines, introducing new characters, or providing humorous epilogues. These scenes are crucial for understanding the interconnectedness of the MCU and often contain vital clues about upcoming events. Ignoring them means missing out on significant narrative threads.
FAQ 4: Which of these pre-Endgame movies are considered the most essential for understanding the story of Infinity War and Endgame?
While all 21 movies contribute to the overall narrative, some are more crucial than others for understanding the stakes and character motivations in Infinity War and Endgame. Key films include: The Avengers, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Captain America: Civil War, Doctor Strange, Thor: Ragnarok, and Captain Marvel.
FAQ 5: What is the role of the Infinity Stones leading up to Endgame?
The Infinity Stones are central to the plot of Infinity War and Endgame. Each stone possesses unique powers, and when combined, they grant the wielder god-like abilities. The films leading up to Infinity War gradually reveal the stones and their locations, building anticipation for Thanos’s quest to collect them all. Understanding their power and history is essential for appreciating the threat Thanos poses.
FAQ 6: How did the snap affect the characters introduced in the pre-Endgame movies?
The snap, caused by Thanos using the Infinity Gauntlet, eradicated half of all life in the universe. Numerous characters introduced in the pre-Endgame movies were victims of the snap, including Spider-Man, Black Panther, Star-Lord, and Doctor Strange. This event had profound consequences for the remaining characters and set the stage for the events of Endgame.
FAQ 7: Were there any major character recasts in the MCU before Endgame?
Yes, there was one notable major character recast. Mark Ruffalo replaced Edward Norton as Bruce Banner/The Hulk after The Incredible Hulk. This decision was reportedly due to creative differences between Norton and Marvel Studios.
FAQ 8: What is the significance of Wakanda in the pre-Endgame MCU?
Wakanda, the technologically advanced African nation ruled by Black Panther, played a crucial role in the events of Infinity War. It became a primary battleground against Thanos’s forces and provided a safe haven for the remaining Avengers. Black Panther‘s solo film significantly expanded the MCU’s world-building and cultural diversity.
FAQ 9: Which pre-Endgame movie best explains the origins of Thanos?
While Thanos is mentioned and hinted at in several earlier films, Guardians of the Galaxy provides the most substantial early insight into his power and reputation. Later, Avengers: Infinity War delves deeper into his motivations and backstory.
FAQ 10: How did the events of Captain America: Civil War impact the Avengers team heading into Infinity War?
Captain America: Civil War caused a major rift within the Avengers team, dividing them into two factions led by Captain America and Iron Man. This internal conflict weakened the team and made them more vulnerable to Thanos’s attack in Infinity War. The fractured state of the Avengers was a key factor in their initial defeat.
FAQ 11: What role does S.H.I.E.L.D. play in the pre-Endgame MCU?
S.H.I.E.L.D. (Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division) initially served as the primary peacekeeping organization in the MCU, connecting many of the early films and characters. However, its infiltration by Hydra, revealed in Captain America: The Winter Soldier, dramatically altered its role and impact on the MCU.
FAQ 12: Can I skip any of the pre-Endgame movies and still understand Infinity War and Endgame?
While technically possible, skipping any of the pre-Endgame movies is highly discouraged. Each film contributes to the overall narrative and character development. Skipping films will result in a less complete and less satisfying viewing experience, potentially missing crucial plot points and emotional connections. The MCU is designed to be consumed as a whole, not in isolated segments.