As of today, October 27, 2023, there are 33 films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), forming the core of the sprawling interconnected cinematic franchise. This includes all movies released under the banner of Marvel Studios, from Iron Man (2008) to Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023).
The Ever-Expanding Marvel Universe
The MCU, with its interwoven narratives and vast array of characters, has redefined blockbuster filmmaking. Understanding the scope of this cinematic behemoth is crucial for both casual viewers and dedicated fans. While the number 33 represents the central canon, the discussion often extends to other Marvel-based films produced by different studios, adding layers of complexity to the answer.
Defining “Marvel Movie”: A Question of Canon
The crux of the issue lies in what we define as a “Marvel movie.” While Marvel Studios, under the Disney umbrella, is the primary engine of the MCU, several other studios have held the rights to Marvel characters over the years. These films, though featuring Marvel characters, are not considered part of the official MCU canon.
Marvel Studios vs. Other Studios
Distinguishing between films produced by Marvel Studios and those produced by studios like 20th Century Fox (now owned by Disney), Sony Pictures, and Lionsgate is paramount. These other studios have produced successful Marvel adaptations, such as the X-Men franchise, the Spider-Man films (before the collaboration with Marvel Studios), and the Blade trilogy, respectively. While entertaining and commercially successful, they exist outside the established continuity of the MCU.
The Current MCU: The Core 33
Therefore, when asked about the total number of Marvel movies, the most accurate and common understanding refers to the 33 films officially part of the MCU, produced by Marvel Studios. These are the films that share a continuous narrative, character crossovers, and contribute to the overarching storyline of the Infinity Saga and beyond.
FAQs About the Marvel Cinematic Universe
Here are some frequently asked questions to clarify the scope and intricacies of the Marvel movie universe:
FAQ 1: Are the X-Men movies part of the MCU?
No. The X-Men movies, produced by 20th Century Fox, are not part of the official MCU canon. While Disney now owns 20th Century Fox, and the X-Men characters are expected to eventually integrate into the MCU, the original film series remains a separate entity. The timeline and events of the X-Men movies are not consistent with the established MCU continuity.
FAQ 2: What about the Spider-Man movies before Tom Holland?
The Spider-Man movies starring Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield, produced by Sony Pictures, are not part of the core MCU canon. However, thanks to the multiverse concept introduced in the MCU, these versions of Spider-Man have made appearances in MCU films like Spider-Man: No Way Home, blurring the lines between universes and acknowledging their existence within the broader Marvel tapestry. These were formerly Sony films licensed to Marvel Studios for the Tom Holland Spider-Man films.
FAQ 3: What is the “Infinity Saga”?
The Infinity Saga refers to the first three phases of the MCU, culminating in Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame. This saga primarily focuses on the quest for the Infinity Stones by Thanos and the Avengers’ efforts to stop him. These films establish the foundational characters and overarching narrative threads of the MCU.
FAQ 4: What are the current “phases” of the MCU?
The MCU is structured in phases, each encompassing a group of films and television series that contribute to a larger storyline. The Infinity Saga comprised Phases One through Three. Phase Four introduced the concept of the multiverse more prominently. Phase Five is currently underway, and Phase Six is planned to conclude the “Multiverse Saga.”
FAQ 5: How many Marvel TV shows are considered canon?
Several Marvel television series are considered canon to the MCU, primarily those produced by Marvel Studios for Disney+. These include shows like WandaVision, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Loki, Hawkeye, Moon Knight, Ms. Marvel, She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, and Secret Invasion. They are directly connected to the film narratives and feature characters and events that impact the overall MCU storyline. However, pre-Disney+ Marvel shows, like Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., exist in a less defined state of canonicity.
FAQ 6: Where can I find a complete list of MCU movies in chronological order?
Numerous websites and resources provide comprehensive lists of MCU movies in chronological order, including Marvel’s official website and reputable movie databases like IMDb. Searching for “MCU chronological order” will yield many reliable options. This order reflects the timeline within the MCU narrative, not necessarily the release date order.
FAQ 7: What’s the best way to watch the MCU movies for the first time?
Most recommend watching the MCU movies in release order for the first time. This allows you to experience the gradual development of the universe, understand the evolving character dynamics, and appreciate the surprises and reveals as they were intended.
FAQ 8: Will the X-Men ever join the main MCU?
Yes, it is expected that the X-Men will eventually be integrated into the MCU. With Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox, the rights to the X-Men characters have reverted to Marvel Studios. The timing and exact details of their introduction remain undisclosed, but hints and Easter eggs in recent MCU films suggest their arrival is imminent.
FAQ 9: Are the Netflix Marvel shows like Daredevil canon?
The canonicity of the Netflix Marvel shows (e.g., Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Iron Fist, The Defenders, The Punisher) is a complex issue. While initially considered part of the MCU, their connection to the main storyline has been ambiguous. However, the appearance of Charlie Cox as Matt Murdock/Daredevil in Spider-Man: No Way Home and She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, and Vincent D’Onofrio as Wilson Fisk/Kingpin in Hawkeye and Echo, suggests that elements of these shows are being brought into the official MCU canon, albeit potentially with some alterations or retcons.
FAQ 10: What does “multiverse” mean in the context of the MCU?
The multiverse in the MCU refers to the existence of multiple parallel universes, each with its own unique timeline, characters, and events. This concept allows for the introduction of alternate versions of familiar characters, the exploration of “what if” scenarios, and the potential for crossovers between different Marvel franchises. It effectively expands the possibilities for storytelling within the MCU exponentially.
FAQ 11: What upcoming Marvel movies can we look forward to?
Marvel Studios has a full slate of upcoming movies. Future titles will include Deadpool 3, Captain America: Brave New World, Thunderbolts, and Fantastic Four, alongside other future projects yet to be fully announced. Checking the official Marvel Studios website and reputable movie news sites will give you up-to-date information on release dates and plot details.
FAQ 12: Where can I legally stream or buy Marvel movies?
Marvel movies are primarily available on Disney+, which is the official streaming home for the MCU. You can also purchase digital copies of the movies through platforms like Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Amazon Prime Video. Physical copies (Blu-ray, DVD) are also widely available for purchase.