After the epic conclusion of Avengers: Endgame, navigating the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) timeline becomes significantly more complex. Deciding on the “best” viewing order depends on your priorities: chronological order by in-universe events, release order for maintaining narrative surprises, or a hybrid approach.
The Great Debate: Chronological, Release, or Hybrid?
The allure of watching the MCU in chronological order is undeniable. It allows you to experience the unfolding saga as it happens within the Marvel universe itself. However, this can disrupt the intended narrative flow and spoil surprises deliberately introduced by the filmmakers in release order.
Opting for release order preserves the impact of twists, character introductions, and the overall building of the interconnected narrative. It’s how the vast majority of viewers initially experienced the MCU and arguably maximizes enjoyment of the storytelling.
A hybrid approach attempts to balance both, often starting with a chronological baseline and then making adjustments to better preserve pacing and prevent spoilers. This is a more complex option requiring careful consideration.
For most viewers, especially those new to the post-Endgame MCU, release order is the recommended approach. It offers the smoothest narrative experience and minimizes confusion. This guide will primarily follow release order, highlighting important chronological shifts.
The Post-Endgame Release Order: A Comprehensive List
Following Endgame, the MCU entered Phase Four, introducing new characters, storylines, and a Multiverse brimming with possibilities. Here’s the release order for movies and key Disney+ series (as their placement significantly impacts the narrative):
- Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
- WandaVision (Disney+, 2021)
- The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (Disney+, 2021)
- Loki (Disney+, 2021)
- Black Widow (2021) (Note: Chronologically takes place between Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War)
- What If…? (Disney+, 2021) (An animated anthology series exploring alternate realities.)
- Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
- Eternals (2021)
- Hawkeye (Disney+, 2021)
- Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
- Moon Knight (Disney+, 2022)
- Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
- Ms. Marvel (Disney+, 2022)
- Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)
- She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (Disney+, 2022)
- Werewolf by Night (Disney+, 2022) (A special presentation)
- Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
- Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
- Secret Invasion (Disney+, 2023)
- The Marvels (2023)
- Echo (Disney+, 2024)
This list provides a solid foundation for navigating the MCU. However, understanding the nuances of each film and series requires a deeper dive.
Diving Deeper: Key Considerations and Chronological Adjustments
While release order is the recommended path, there are a few critical points to consider:
- Black Widow’s Placement: Although released after Endgame, Black Widow is a prequel, occurring between Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War. Watching it earlier would break the post-Endgame narrative, but understanding its place in the grand scheme is crucial.
- Disney+ Series Integration: The Disney+ series are no longer optional add-ons. They are integral to the MCU’s ongoing story and introduce key characters and concepts that directly impact the films. Ignoring them means missing significant plot points.
- Multiversal Implications: Loki, What If…?, Spider-Man: No Way Home, and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness all explore the Multiverse in significant ways. Pay close attention to the established rules and consequences, as they will likely play a crucial role in future MCU installments.
Understanding the New Landscape: Post-Endgame Themes and Characters
The post-Endgame MCU focuses on several key themes:
- Legacy: How characters deal with the loss of heroes like Iron Man and Captain America.
- The Multiverse: The exploration of alternate realities and their potential impact on the prime MCU timeline.
- New Heroes: The introduction of a new generation of heroes to fill the void left by the original Avengers.
- Power Vacuums: The chaos and instability created by the absence of established power structures.
Understanding these themes will enrich your viewing experience and provide a framework for interpreting the narratives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Should I rewatch Endgame before starting the post-Endgame MCU?
Yes, rewatching Avengers: Endgame is highly recommended. It will refresh your memory of the key events and emotional stakes that shape the post-Endgame world. Understanding the sacrifices made and the current state of the universe is crucial.
FAQ 2: Are the Defenders Saga shows (Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Iron Fist, The Defenders, The Punisher) canon to the MCU?
While originally produced by Marvel Television outside the direct control of Marvel Studios, Daredevil is now confirmed to be MCU canon after appearances in Spider-Man: No Way Home and Echo. The canonicity of the other Defenders shows remains ambiguous. While references to them might appear, their direct integration into the main MCU timeline is yet to be definitively established.
FAQ 3: Do I need to watch Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.?
Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. existed in a tangential relationship with the films. While it drew inspiration from the MCU, its impact on the movies was minimal. It’s not essential viewing, but fans may find it interesting for its exploration of the wider Marvel universe. Its canonicity is similarly ambiguous as the Defenders saga.
FAQ 4: What’s the best way to watch What If…??
What If…? is an anthology series that explores alternate realities. It’s best viewed after Loki to understand the concept of the Multiverse branches. The episodes are largely self-contained but some characters and storylines reappear, culminating in a season finale that ties various alternate realities together.
FAQ 5: Where does Black Widow fit into the chronological order?
Black Widow takes place between Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War. However, watching it in release order (after Endgame) allows for a more impactful viewing experience by revealing more about Natasha Romanoff’s backstory and motivations after her ultimate sacrifice.
FAQ 6: Is it necessary to watch all the trailers and promotional material?
Trailers can provide hints and teases about upcoming storylines, but they can also be misleading or contain spoilers. It’s generally recommended to avoid them to preserve the element of surprise during your viewing experience.
FAQ 7: What if I want to skip a movie or series?
While you can skip certain entries, be aware that you might miss important character development, plot threads, and world-building elements that could impact your understanding of future installments. The MCU is an interconnected universe, and skipping content can lead to confusion.
FAQ 8: How important are the post-credit scenes?
The post-credit scenes are vital to the MCU. They often tease upcoming storylines, introduce new characters, or provide crucial clues about the future direction of the universe. Never skip them!
FAQ 9: Where can I find the official MCU timeline?
Marvel Studios doesn’t maintain a single official, publicly available MCU timeline. Various fan-made timelines exist online, but be cautious, as some may contain inaccuracies or spoilers. Your best bet is to rely on reputable sources like Marvel.com or trusted entertainment news websites.
FAQ 10: What’s the significance of the Multiverse?
The Multiverse is a key element of the post-Endgame MCU, opening up endless possibilities for storytelling. It allows for the introduction of alternate versions of existing characters, new threats from different realities, and the exploration of alternate timelines.
FAQ 11: Will there be more “Avengers” movies in the future?
Yes, Marvel Studios has announced Avengers: The Kang Dynasty (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027). These films will likely bring together a new team of heroes to face significant threats, potentially from across the Multiverse.
FAQ 12: What’s the best way to stay up-to-date with MCU news and announcements?
Follow official Marvel Studios social media accounts, visit Marvel.com, and subscribe to reputable entertainment news outlets for the latest updates, trailers, and announcements. Be wary of unverified rumors and leaks.