There are 23 movies that comprise the first three phases, collectively known as “The Infinity Saga,” of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This ambitious undertaking laid the foundation for the global phenomenon that the MCU has become.
Understanding the Marvel Cinematic Universe: A Phased Approach
The MCU’s success is largely attributed to its innovative phased approach. Rather than stand-alone films, each phase builds upon the previous one, introducing characters, storylines, and overarching threats that ultimately converge in epic team-up events. This interconnectedness is what sets the MCU apart and keeps audiences eagerly anticipating the next installment. The Infinity Saga, comprised of Phases 1-3, culminated in a satisfying (and often heartbreaking) resolution to many established storylines.
The Films of Phase 1 (2008-2012)
Phase 1 served as an introduction to the core heroes who would form the original Avengers team. It was about building individual character arcs and hinting at a larger universe.
Films in Phase 1
- Iron Man (2008): The film that started it all, introducing Tony Stark and his iconic Iron Man suit.
- The Incredible Hulk (2008): Featuring Edward Norton as Bruce Banner, this film explored the origins of the Hulk.
- Iron Man 2 (2010): Tony Stark battles new enemies and grapples with the responsibilities of being Iron Man.
- Thor (2011): The God of Thunder is banished to Earth and must prove himself worthy to wield Mjolnir.
- Captain America: The First Avenger (2011): Steve Rogers transforms into Captain America and fights against the Red Skull during World War II.
- The Avengers (2012): Earth’s mightiest heroes assemble to fight Loki and the Chitauri invasion.
The Films of Phase 2 (2013-2015)
Phase 2 delved deeper into the cosmic side of the MCU and introduced new threats from beyond Earth. The consequences of The Avengers were felt, and the heroes began to grapple with the new world order.
Films in Phase 2
- Iron Man 3 (2013): Tony Stark deals with the psychological aftermath of the Battle of New York and confronts the Mandarin.
- Thor: The Dark World (2013): Thor battles the Dark Elves to protect the Nine Realms.
- Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014): Steve Rogers uncovers a conspiracy within S.H.I.E.L.D. and confronts the Winter Soldier.
- Guardians of the Galaxy (2014): A ragtag group of intergalactic outlaws unites to save the galaxy from Ronan the Accuser.
- Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015): The Avengers face a new threat in Ultron, an artificial intelligence created by Tony Stark.
- Ant-Man (2015): Scott Lang becomes Ant-Man and must prevent Yellowjacket from weaponizing the shrinking technology.
The Films of Phase 3 (2016-2019)
Phase 3 expanded the MCU even further, introducing new heroes, exploring complex themes, and leading to the epic conclusion of the Infinity Saga. This phase is widely considered the most ambitious and impactful.
Films in Phase 3
- Captain America: Civil War (2016): The Avengers are divided over government oversight and must choose sides.
- Doctor Strange (2016): Stephen Strange learns the mystic arts and becomes the Sorcerer Supreme.
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017): The Guardians continue their adventures and uncover more about Peter Quill’s origins.
- Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017): Peter Parker balances his high school life with his superhero duties under the watchful eye of Tony Stark.
- Thor: Ragnarok (2017): Thor must stop Hela, the Goddess of Death, from destroying Asgard.
- Black Panther (2018): T’Challa returns to Wakanda to assume his role as king and protect his nation from outside threats.
- Avengers: Infinity War (2018): The Avengers and their allies face their greatest threat yet in Thanos, who seeks to collect the Infinity Stones.
- Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018): Scott Lang and Hope van Dyne team up as Ant-Man and the Wasp to rescue Janet van Dyne from the Quantum Realm.
- Captain Marvel (2019): Carol Danvers becomes Captain Marvel and discovers her past as a Kree soldier.
- Avengers: Endgame (2019): The Avengers embark on a time-traveling mission to undo Thanos’s snap and save the universe.
- Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019): Peter Parker deals with the loss of Tony Stark and faces new threats while on a school trip to Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about MCU Phase 1-3
These FAQs address common questions regarding the characters, timeline, and overarching narrative of the Infinity Saga.
FAQ 1: What is the overarching story of the first three phases?
The overarching story of MCU Phases 1-3, known as The Infinity Saga, revolves around the pursuit of the six Infinity Stones by the Mad Titan, Thanos. Each phase introduces new characters and storylines that eventually converge as Thanos attempts to wipe out half of all life in the universe to restore balance.
FAQ 2: Why is the Infinity Saga so important to the MCU?
The Infinity Saga is crucial because it established the foundation for the entire MCU. It introduced the core characters, developed their relationships, and built the interconnected universe that has become a global phenomenon. Furthermore, it demonstrated the feasibility of a long-term, interconnected narrative across multiple films.
FAQ 3: Is it necessary to watch all 23 movies to understand Phase 4 and beyond?
While not strictly necessary, watching the movies of Phases 1-3 significantly enhances the understanding and appreciation of subsequent phases. Key character development, established relationships, and unresolved plot threads from the Infinity Saga often carry over into later films and series. Understanding these nuances makes for a richer viewing experience.
FAQ 4: Which is considered the best movie in Phase 1-3 by critics and fans?
While subjective, Avengers: Endgame is frequently cited as the best film in the Infinity Saga due to its epic scale, emotional resonance, and satisfying conclusion to many long-running storylines. However, Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Avengers: Infinity War also consistently rank highly.
FAQ 5: What are the Infinity Stones, and why are they so important?
The Infinity Stones are six immensely powerful artifacts that control different aspects of existence: Space, Reality, Power, Mind, Time, and Soul. They are vital because possessing all six stones grants the wielder near-omnipotent power, as demonstrated by Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War.
FAQ 6: What’s the best order to watch the movies in Phase 1-3?
The release order is generally considered the best way to watch the movies for the first time, as it preserves the intended flow of the narrative and avoids spoilers. However, there are also chronological watch orders that place films within the overall timeline.
FAQ 7: Are there any post-credits scenes that are essential to watch in Phase 1-3?
Yes, almost all post-credits scenes in the Infinity Saga provide important hints, teases, or setup for future movies. Many of these scenes introduce new characters, reveal plot twists, or hint at upcoming threats. It’s highly recommended to watch them all.
FAQ 8: Which characters are introduced in Phase 1 and become crucial later on?
Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, Hulk, and Black Widow, all introduced in Phase 1, become central figures in the Avengers team and play pivotal roles throughout the entire Infinity Saga. Nick Fury, also introduced in Phase 1, is instrumental in assembling the Avengers.
FAQ 9: What is the significance of Thanos’s snap in Avengers: Infinity War?
Thanos’s snap, executed with the Infinity Gauntlet, resulted in the instantaneous disintegration of half of all living beings in the universe. This event, often referred to as “The Decimation,” had profound consequences for the remaining heroes and set the stage for the events of Avengers: Endgame.
FAQ 10: How did the Avengers undo Thanos’s snap in Avengers: Endgame?
The Avengers utilized time travel, aided by the Quantum Realm, to retrieve the Infinity Stones from different points in the past. They then used these stones to undo Thanos’s snap and bring back those who had been lost.
FAQ 11: What happened to the original Avengers team at the end of Phase 3?
The original Avengers team underwent significant changes at the end of Phase 3. Iron Man and Black Widow sacrificed themselves to defeat Thanos. Captain America traveled back in time to return the Infinity Stones and chose to live out his life with Peggy Carter. Thor departed Earth to join the Guardians of the Galaxy. Hulk continued his heroic journey, now with a greater understanding of his dual nature.
FAQ 12: What’s next for the MCU after the Infinity Saga?
The MCU continues with Phase 4 and beyond, introducing new characters, exploring new storylines, and expanding the universe in exciting ways. The events of the Infinity Saga have left a lasting impact on the world, shaping the challenges and opportunities faced by the new generation of heroes. The Multiverse becomes a central point to this next saga.