Marvel movies are a dime a dozen these days. It seems like every other month, there’s a new release from the studio. With so many movies coming out, it can be hard to keep track of them all. And if you’re new to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it can be even harder to figure out where to start.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of Marvel movies in order. Whether you’re a Marvel diehard or just getting started, this list will help you make sense of it all.
We’ve broken the list down into a few different sections. The first section is for the MCU movies in chronological order. This is the order we recommend you watch the movies in, as it will help you understand the story arcs better.
The second section is for the movies that are not part of the MCU. These are movies like Deadpool and Logan, which are produced by 20th Century Fox. We’ve included these movies because they are still great films, but just be aware that they aren’t connected to the MCU.
First Section : Chronological Order
1.Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
CAPTAIN MARVEL effectively replaces IRON MAN as the proper starting point for the entire MCAPTAIN MARVEL effectively replaces IRON MAN as the proper starting point for the entire MCU. The story takes place primarily in the mid-1990s and features the first evolution of S.H.I.E.L.D. as well as an important stage in Nick Fury’s career. The story also introduces the Kree (who will later appear in GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY) and, most importantly, deals with an object that will become important near the end of Marvel’s Phase One. As Carol Danvers’ (Brie Larson) origin story, this also feels more like a Phase One film than anything Marvel has done in recent years. In terms of tone and theme, it belongs at the top of the viewing list.
2.Captain Marvel (2019)
Although IRON MAN was the first MCU film, it takes on greater significance when placed here. THE FIRST AVENGER introduced us to Howard Stark. Seeing his son take his first shaky steps into the “bigger universe” is an effective stage in the MCU film sequence. After the events of CAPTAIN MARVEL, the final scene, with Nick Fury emerging from the shadows, will take on a subtly different meaning. Rather than hinting at the beginning of the MCU, it will serve as connective tissue between the first three films.
3. Iron Man (2008)
As although IRON MAN was the first MCU film, it takes on greater significance when placed here. THE FIRST AVENGER introduced us to Howard Stark. Seeing his son take his first shaky steps into the “bigger universe” is an effective stage in the MCU film sequence. After the events of CAPTAIN MARVEL, the final scene, with Nick Fury emerging from the shadows, will take on a subtly different meaning. Rather than hinting at the beginning of the MCU, it will serve as connective tissue between the first three films.
4. Iron Man 2 (2010)
Following the introduction of the modern-day iteration of S.H.I.E.L.D. in IRON MAN, the sequel delves deep into that organisation. It also features Nick Fury in a much larger role, allowing viewers to get a sense of who this figure truly is. Meanwhile, the emphasis on Howard Stark’s legacy continues to connect the narrative threads. At this point, watching IRON MAN 2 makes perfect sense.
5. The Incredible Hulk (2008)
This potential change in viewing order is appropriate. While THE INCREDIBLE HULK takes place concurrently with IRON MAN 2, the end-credits sequence implies Tony Stark is now a “consultant” with S.H.I.E.L.D.
6. Thor (2011)
THOR introduces viewers to Asgard and begins a series of stories based on events from the Realm Eternal. Simultaneously, it continues to develop the S.H.I.E.L.D. story, with Coulson and Hawkeye playing important roles.
7. The Avengers (2012)
This represents a logical continuation of many of the themes and character arcs established in THOR. Loki reappears as a villain; the Tesseract concept is explored; and the existence of dangerous alien beings is revealed when the Chitauri invade New York. There’s also a more subtle detail, as this is the first film to hint that S.H.I.E.L.D. is more than just “good guys.” THE AVENGERS contains an upsetting scene in which the World Security Council orders a nuclear attack on American soil.
8.Thor: The Dark World (2013)
The sequence of events shifts dramatically here, but for good reason. The last two films in the MCU have explored the cosmic side of the franchise, and it makes sense to continue in that vein. Some of the most important themes and ideas, especially the relationship between Thor and Loki, are directly related to THE AVENGERS. This also introduces the concept of Infinity Stones, which are only partially explained at this point.
9. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
The sequence of events shifts dramatically here, but for good reason. The last two films in the MCU have explored the cosmic side of the franchise, and it makes sense to continue in that vein. Some of the most important themes and ideas, especially the relationship between Thor and Loki, are directly related to THE AVENGERS. This also introduces the concept of Infinity Stones, which are only slightly explained at this point.