Watching Marvel animated movies in the right sequence unlocks a deeper understanding of the characters, storylines, and overarching narrative connections woven throughout the Marvel Universe. This guide provides a chronological and thematic viewing order, ensuring an optimal experience for both newcomers and seasoned Marvel fans.
Diving into the Marvel Animated Universe: A Viewing Order
Navigating the world of Marvel animated movies can be daunting, especially with different animation styles and varying degrees of canonicity. While a strict continuity doesn’t exist across all animated films, certain movies are best enjoyed in sequence due to recurring characters, thematic links, or shared storylines. Here’s a recommended viewing order that balances release date and narrative coherence:
- Ultimate Avengers (2006): This film offers a grounded introduction to the Avengers team, based on the Ultimate Marvel comic book universe.
- Ultimate Avengers 2 (2006): A direct sequel to the first Ultimate Avengers movie, continuing the story of the team and their fight against alien threats.
- The Invincible Iron Man (2007): This film delves into Iron Man’s origin story, providing essential background on Tony Stark and his technology.
- Doctor Strange: The Sorcerer Supreme (2007): Essential viewing for understanding Doctor Strange’s powers, origins, and his role in the wider Marvel universe.
- Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow (2008): A fun, standalone story introducing the children of the original Avengers in a dystopian future.
- Hulk Versus (2009): Two short films (“Hulk Versus Wolverine” and “Hulk Versus Thor”) showcasing Hulk’s raw power against two iconic Marvel heroes. This is more action-focused than story-driven.
- Planet Hulk (2010): A thrilling adaptation of the famous comic book storyline where Hulk is exiled to a savage planet and forced to become a gladiator.
- Thor: Tales of Asgard (2011): Explores Thor’s younger years, providing context for his later actions and relationships in the live-action movies.
- Iron Man: Rise of Technovore (2013): This film features Iron Man battling a villain who can control technology, presenting a unique challenge for the armored Avenger.
- Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United (2013): A team-up movie that combines the strengths of Iron Man and Hulk against a common enemy. While lighthearted, it adds to their dynamic.
- Avengers Confidential: Black Widow & Punisher (2014): This film is a more mature take, teaming Black Widow and Punisher on a secret mission. Be aware of its darker tone.
- Big Hero 6 (2014): Though initially released independently by Disney, Big Hero 6 is based on a Marvel comic book and is officially part of the wider Marvel multimedia landscape.
- Marvel Rising: Secret Warriors (2018): A more modern take on superhero teams, featuring a diverse group of young heroes like Ms. Marvel, Squirrel Girl, and Quake.
- Marvel Rising: Chasing Ghosts (2019) – Short film continuing the storyline from Secret Warriors.
- Marvel Rising: Heart of Iron (2019) – Short film expanding on the Ironheart character from Secret Warriors.
- Marvel Rising: Battle of the Bands (2019) – Short film further developing the teen hero team dynamic.
- Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018): Although focused on Spider-Man, the multiverse aspect and visual style are incredibly compelling and can be considered part of the broader animated experience. (Technically a Sony film, but a crucial part of the Spider-Verse).
- Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023): Directly continues the story of Miles Morales and the multiverse, expanding on the themes introduced in the first film.
- Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse (TBA): Completes the trilogy started by Into the Spider-Verse and Across the Spider-Verse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
These frequently asked questions provide deeper insights into the Marvel animated movie universe and address common concerns regarding viewing order and canonicity.
H3: Are All Marvel Animated Movies Canon to the MCU?
No, most Marvel animated movies are not considered canon to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). They often exist in their own separate continuities, drawing inspiration from various comic book storylines. The Spider-Verse films, while not strictly MCU, are highly regarded and deal with multiverse concepts that resonate with MCU themes.
H3: Is the Ultimate Avengers Series Worth Watching?
Yes, the Ultimate Avengers movies are a good starting point. They provide a simplified and accessible introduction to the Avengers, drawing inspiration from the popular Ultimate Marvel comics. They are relatively self-contained and easy to follow.
H3: Where Does Planet Hulk Fit in the Overall Timeline?
Planet Hulk is a standalone story, but it draws upon events that occur before the World War Hulk comic book storyline. It showcases Hulk’s strength and his time on Sakaar, which has influenced his characterization in the MCU.
H3: Are the Marvel Rising Animated Specials Connected?
Yes, the Marvel Rising animated specials (Secret Warriors, Chasing Ghosts, Heart of Iron, Battle of the Bands) are connected and tell an ongoing story about a team of young, diverse heroes. It is best to watch them in the order listed above for maximum understanding.
H3: Are the Iron Man Animated Films Connected?
While The Invincible Iron Man, Iron Man: Rise of Technovore, and Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United all feature Iron Man, they do not necessarily form a cohesive narrative. Each film largely stands on its own, although watching The Invincible Iron Man first provides context for Tony Stark’s origins.
H3: Should I Watch Hulk Versus Before Planet Hulk?
While Hulk Versus showcases Hulk’s power, Planet Hulk has a stronger narrative. It’s perfectly acceptable to watch Planet Hulk first, as Hulk Versus primarily serves as action-packed entertainment.
H3: Is Big Hero 6 Considered a Marvel Movie?
Yes, Big Hero 6 is based on a Marvel comic book, although Disney adapted the source material significantly. While it doesn’t directly tie into other Marvel animated movies, it officially sits within the wider Marvel multiverse of stories.
H3: What About Marvel Anime Series Like Wolverine and X-Men?
This guide focuses on animated movies. Marvel anime series like Wolverine, X-Men, Iron Man, and Blade exist but are beyond the scope of this article. They would represent a separate, but related, viewing journey.
H3: Is the Order Based on Release Date or Chronology?
The order provided primarily balances release date with narrative coherence. While some films are standalone, grouping films with related characters or themes enhances the viewing experience.
H3: Are the Spider-Verse Movies Really Necessary to Watch?
While Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, and Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse are not technically part of the main MCU animated film continuity, their visual style, innovative storytelling, and multiverse themes make them highly recommended viewing for any Marvel fan. They are essential for understanding the possibilities of the multiverse.
H3: Where Can I Find These Animated Movies?
Most of these Marvel animated movies are available for purchase or rental on digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, and iTunes. Some may also be available on streaming services like Disney+. Check availability in your region.
H3: What If I Just Want to Watch the Best Ones?
If you’re short on time, focus on Doctor Strange: The Sorcerer Supreme, Planet Hulk, Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow, and definitely the Spider-Verse trilogy. These are generally considered the best Marvel animated movies in terms of story, animation quality, and overall impact.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the exciting world of Marvel animated movies, ensuring you catch all the important details and enjoy the best possible viewing experience. Happy watching!