The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has captivated audiences around the world since its humble beginnings with the launch of Iron Man in 2008. Spanning dozens of films and counting (and inspiring some fantastic video games), the MCU has become one of the most successful and beloved franchises in cinematic history.
From iconic characters and breathtaking action sequences to touching moments and intricate storylines, the MCU has something for everyone. Revisiting old classics and new blockbusters from this franchise is a favorite pastime for many of us, and with Disney Plus, fans can access nearly every entry in this universe in a single place. Here are some of the best of the best.
10 Iron Man
If you’re an old-school fan of Marvel, rewatching Iron Man is a must. It’s the movie that started it all and helped set the tone for the rest of the franchise. Led by Robert Downey Jr.’s magnetic performance, Iron Man delivers a perfect balance of action, character development, and humor. The film’s visual effects and action sequences, though somewhat dated by today’s standards, still hold up well.
Its iconic score, featuring tracks by AC/DC, is synonymous with the character of Iron Man and is sure to bring back memories for the fans who’ve followed the franchise since the beginning. The story of an egotistical billionaire learning to both care for and rely on his close companions, as well as begin to come into his role of a savior, is a compelling one that appeals to newer audiences as well.
9 Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Captain America: The Winter Soldier is one of the highlights of the MCU’s earlier releases. This film takes Steve Rogers’ character and puts him through the wringer, as he struggles to understand and adapt to the modern world. It continues after the original Avengers movie and shows the subsequent events, adding context and continuity.
The action sequences in this movie are some of the best in the franchise. While perhaps not as grand as some of the later entries in the MCU, the combat scenes are expertly choreographed and well-executed, providing a thrilling visual spectacle.
8 Avengers: Age of Ultron
Avengers: Age of Ultron is one of the last movies in phase two of the MCU, marking a significant change in the overall tone of the franchise. It moves away from the more grounded sequences of the first phase and starts to introduce the grand battles that are now a staple of Marvel. Age of Ultron expands the roster of fan-favorite characters and introduces major players like Scarlet Witch and Vision.
It adds more depth and development to some characters, too. Hawkeye, for instance, is given a more significant role in the film. It also raises the stakes for the entire MCU, with the heroes facing a potentially world-ending threat that was ultimately caused by one of the Avengers themselves.
7 Ant-Man
With the help of Paul Rudd’s exemplary performance, an incredible visual effects team, and an inspiring storyline, Ant-Man manages to prove that Marvel excels in whatever they put their minds to, even a down-to-earth character-based film like Ant-Man. A petty thief turned superhero isn’t a new concept. In fact, it is reminiscent of another Marvel movie, Guardians of the Galaxy, where Star-Lord goes through a similar character arc.
This movie’s heart lies in the characters, their interactions, and the dynamic and witty dialogue. While the villain in this movie isn’t as nuanced as some of the others in the MCU, the story beats and cinematography steal the show and make Ant-Man a great film to revisit.
6 Guardians of the Galaxy
Guardians of the Galaxy is a thrilling, action-packed addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe that stands out from the rest of the franchise. It introduces audiences to a completely new cast, giving them a break from the heroes on Earth. This movie serves to introduce different species and includes some of the most lovable characters in the whole MCU, like Groot, Drax, and Rocket Raccoon.
The witty banter between the eclectic cast, combined with the unique pop/rock soundtrack, is especially enjoyable. Star-Lord, specifically, is one of the best characters in the MCU. The way Guardians of the Galaxy sets up the future films in the MCU makes it worth a watch even if you’ve already seen it. The events in this film have far-reaching consequences, teasing the main villain until phase four of the MCU: the terrifying Thanos.
5 Thor: Ragnarok
Thor: Ragnarok is arguably one of the most pivotal movies in the entire franchise. It features some of the best CGI in the series, and explores the relationship between the two brothers, Thor and Loki, to a greater degree than in previous films. Betrayal, trust, and tragedy follow one after the other, making this twisting tale an emotional rollercoaster.
The humor in the film is effective, if a little silly at time. The visuals are truly striking too. This movie helped to shift the tone of the franchise once more, infusing it with a new sense of humor and lightheartedness. This new direction has had a lasting impact on the MCU, shaping the world into what it is today.
4 Black Panther
Black Panther features beautiful costume design, stunning cinematography, and deep lore. It is a coming of age story that is considered by many to be one of Marvel’s best (and certainly most poignant) works. The chant of “Wakanda Forever!” intoned by the characters speaks of their great pride in their heritage, and when echoed by fans, reflects their love for the movie and everything it represents.
While it doesn’t emphasize that classic Marvel humor, the film is still praised as one of the best in the franchise. It is described as a cultural movement that brings a breath of fresh air to the MCU. After the tragic death of Chadwick Boseman, it takes on even greater levels of significance. This movie is an emotional must-rewatch for any fan.
3 Doctor Strange
Doctor Strange’s debut movie was a massive success. It is a deep character study starring Benedict Cumberbatch as the formidable Doctor Strange. This movie is a unique addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, introducing audiences to the world of magic.
It also explores the concept of parallel dimensions and alternate realities for the first time. These concepts would then come into play in many other movies, and add another layer of depth and complexity to the lore of the MCU. Like other Marvel entries, Doctor Strange features stunning visuals but distinguishes itself with the use of reality-defying imagery and special effects. It all makes for a unique and unforgettable visual experience that stays with the viewer for a long time.
2 Avengers: Infinity War
It’s hard to live up to the hype of millions of fans and the legacy of the late, beloved Stan Lee, but Avengers: Infinity War rose to the challenge and delivered. This movie is the culmination of a decade’s worth of waiting and dozens of teasers in post-credit scenes. It left critics and fans alike amazed and held their rapt attention throughout.
The epic scale, intense action, and compelling characters were merely a precursor for the next installment in the franchise, Avengers: Endgame. The battle for the Infinity Stones was hard-fought, the deadly finger-snap is now iconic, but there were even grander battles to come as the survivors of Thanos’ actions rose against him.
1 Avengers: Endgame
The final movie of phase four, Avengers: Endgame, closed the curtain on the main storyline. It brought the series to a satisfying conclusion. The nostalgia, melancholy, and excitement felt when viewers all across the globe watched it all unfold was unmatched. Endgame was an international phenomenon, a once-in-a-lifetime movie for Marvel fans that will be very hard to replicate.
It has amazing VFX, stellar actors, and incredibly large final battle sequences. Endgame is the final conclusion to the saga that an entire generation grew up following. Without a doubt, this is the best MCU movie you can watch.
