If you’re a newcomer to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it can be overwhelming to know where to start. With over 20 films in the franchise, each with its own storyline and set of characters, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of superheroes. However, fear not! In this blog post, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to get started with Marvel movies.
So, how to get started with Marvel movies?
1. Watch in release order
The best way to start your journey into the MCU is by watching the films in release order. This means starting with “Iron Man” (2008) and working your way through the films chronologically. This method ensures that you see the movies in the order they were intended to be seen and also allows you to see the progression of the franchise over the years.
Here is the complete list of films in release order:
- Iron Man (2008)
- The Incredible Hulk (2008)
- Iron Man 2 (2010)
- Thor (2011)
- Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
- The Avengers (2012)
- Iron Man 3 (2013)
- Thor: The Dark World (2013)
- Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
- Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
- Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
- Ant-Man (2015)
- Captain America: Civil War (2016)
- Doctor Strange (2016)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
- Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
- Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
- Black Panther (2018)
- Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
- Ant-Man and The Wasp (2018)
- Captain Marvel (2019)
- Avengers: Endgame (2019)
- Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
- Black widow (2021)
- Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
- Eternals (2021)
- Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
- Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
- Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)
- Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
2. Watch in chronological order
If you’re not a fan of watching movies in release order, you can opt to watch them in chronological order. This means starting with “Captain America: The First Avenger,” which takes place in the 1940s, and working your way through the films based on their place in the MCU timeline. This method can be a bit confusing, as some films take place at the same time as others, but it’s still a fun way to watch the films.
Here is the complete list of films in chronological order:
- Captain America: The First Avenger (1943 – 1945)
- Captain Marvel (1995)
- Iron Man (2010)
- Iron Man 2 (2011)
- The Incredible Hulk (2011)
- Thor (2011)
- The Avengers (2012)
- Iron Man 3 (2012)
- Thor: The Dark World (2013)
- Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
- Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2014)
- Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
- Ant-Man (2015)
- Captain America: Civil War (2016)
- Spider-Man: Homecoming (2016)
- Doctor Strange (2016 – 2017)
- Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
- Black Panther (2018)
- Avengers: Infinity War (2017)
- Ant-Man and The Wasp (2018)
- Captain Marvel (2019)
- Avengers: Endgame (2019)
- Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
- Black widow (2021)
- Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
- Eternals (2021)
- Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
- Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
- Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)
- Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
3. Don’t skip the post-credit scenes
One of the most exciting parts of watching Marvel movies is the post-credit scenes. These scenes often tease future films or provide additional information about the current movie. Some post-credit scenes even tie multiple films together. Therefore, it’s essential not to skip them, or you could miss out on some critical details.
4. Get familiar with the characters
How to Get Started With Marvel Movies? The MCU is known for its vast array of characters. Therefore, it’s essential to get familiar with them before diving into the films. While some characters have standalone movies, others are introduced in group movies, such as “The Avengers.” Reading comic books or watching animated shows can also provide more insight into the characters and their backgrounds.
5. Watch the TV shows
In addition to the films, the MCU has expanded into television with shows such as “WandaVision,” “The Falcon and The Winter Soldier,” and “Loki.” These shows provide additional information about the characters and their backstories, as well as setting up future films. Watching the TV shows can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the MCU.
6. Take your time
With over 20 films and several TV shows, it’s impossible to watch everything in one go. Therefore, it’s essential to take your time and enjoy the journey. The films and TV shows are meant to be enjoyed and not rushed. It’s okay to take a break between films or shows to absorb the information and get excited about what’s to come.
7. Explore the Marvel One-Shots
How to Get Started With Marvel Movies? Marvel One-Shots are short films that were included in the Blu-ray and digital releases of some of the Marvel movies. These films focus on supporting characters from the MCU and provide additional backstory or insight into the events of the films. While not essential to the main storyline, they can be a fun addition to your MCU journey.
8. Join the Marvel fandom
Joining the Marvel fandom can enhance your viewing experience. By interacting with other fans, you can share your thoughts and theories about the movies and TV shows, discuss favorite characters and moments, and keep up with the latest news and updates. Social media platforms such as Twitter and Reddit are great places to connect with other fans.
9. Read the comics
The Marvel movies are based on characters and storylines from the comics. Therefore, reading the comics can provide a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations, as well as expand your knowledge of the Marvel universe. Some comics even directly tie into the movies, such as “Civil War” and “Infinity Gauntlet.”
10. Embrace the genre
Finally, it’s important to embrace the genre of superhero movies. The Marvel movies are full of action, adventure, and humor, and are meant to be enjoyed as such. While some may dismiss them as just popcorn flicks, they are an important part of modern pop culture and have a significant impact on the film industry.
11. Consider the viewing experience
When getting started with Marvel movies, it’s important to consider the viewing experience. Some people prefer to watch the films in a theater for the immersive experience, while others prefer to watch at home for convenience. Additionally, some people may prefer to watch with subtitles or a different language track. It’s essential to find what works best for you to fully enjoy the films.
12. Pay attention to the music
The music in the Marvel movies is an important aspect of the viewing experience. The soundtracks are often composed by renowned musicians such as Alan Silvestri and Ludwig Goransson and can enhance the emotions of the scenes. Paying attention to the music can provide a deeper appreciation for the films.
13. Understand the interconnectedness
One of the most unique aspects of the MCU is the interconnectedness of the films and TV shows. It’s important to understand that events and characters from one movie may affect another, and watching them in order can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the overall storyline.
14. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
With such a vast universe and numerous characters, it’s understandable to have questions while watching the Marvel movies. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek out answers online. The Marvel fandom is full of helpful fans who can provide insight into the movies and answer any questions you may have.
15. Have fun!
Above all, it’s important to have fun while getting started with Marvel movies. The films and TV shows are meant to be enjoyed, and there’s no wrong way to watch them. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or a newcomer, there’s something for everyone in the MCU. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!
In conclusion, getting started with Marvel movies can be a fun and exciting journey. By watching the films in release or chronological order, not skipping the post-credit scenes, getting familiar with the characters, watching the TV shows, and taking your time, you can fully immerse yourself in the MCU. That How to Get Started With Marvel Movies. Happy watching!
FAQ (How to Get Started With Marvel Movies?)
Q: What is the best order to watch the Marvel movies in?
A: The two most popular orders to watch the movies are either in release order or chronological order. Release order is the order in which the movies were released in theaters, while chronological order is the order in which the events of the movies take place within the MCU timeline.
Q: Do I need to watch the TV shows to understand the movies?
A: No, the TV shows are not necessary to understand the movies, but they can provide additional information about the characters and their backstories, as well as set up future films.
Q: Should I watch the Marvel One-Shots?
A: While not essential to the main storyline, the One-Shots can be a fun addition to your MCU journey and provide additional backstory or insight into supporting characters from the films.
Q: Do I need to read the comics to understand the movies?
A: No, reading the comics is not necessary to understand the movies, but it can provide a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations, as well as expand your knowledge of the Marvel universe.
Q: How do I join the Marvel fandom?
A: You can join the Marvel fandom by interacting with other fans on social media platforms such as Twitter and Reddit, attending conventions and events, or joining online communities such as fan forums or Facebook groups.
Q: Can I watch the Marvel movies with my kids?
A: The Marvel movies are generally family-friendly, but some may contain violence or mild language. It’s important to consider your child’s age and maturity level before watching, and use discretion when choosing which movies to watch with them.
Q: Can I watch the Marvel movies without having seen any previous films?
A: Yes, the movies are designed to be enjoyed as standalone films, but watching them in order can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the overall storyline.