Embark on the ultimate Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) adventure with this comprehensive movie guide and checklist! This list has all the essential details from Iron Man’s origins to multiverse madness and the upcoming epic battles in Avengers: The Kang Dynasty and Secret Wars. With detailed plot summaries, villain showdowns, and exclusive trailers, you're in for an adventure that spans timelines, dimensions, and epic confrontations. Jump in and discover what makes each movie a must-watch, with all the excitement and drama that only the MCU can deliver!
For a complete downloadable 1 page Marvel Cinematic Universe movie checklist go to the bottom of this post.
Marvel Cinematic Universe Movie Checklist
1. Captain America: The First Avenger
Release Date: July 22, 2011
Historical Timeline Date: 1942–1945
Director: Joe Johnston
Main Cast: Chris Evans (Steve Rogers / Captain America), Hayley Atwell (Peggy Carter), Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes), Tommy Lee Jones (Colonel Chester Phillips), Hugo Weaving (Johann Schmidt / Red Skull)
Major Villains: Red Skull, HYDRA
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 74%, IMDB: 6.9/10
Plot Summary: During World War II, Steve Rogers becomes Captain America to fight HYDRA, led by the Red Skull. Rogers sacrifices himself and is frozen in ice, setting up his eventual revival in modern times.
Connection to Previous Movie: The introduction of the Tesseract sets up future conflicts and connects to the MCU's overarching story.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up Steve’s awakening in the present and his role in The Avengers.
Verified Trailer Link: Captain America: The First Avenger Trailer
2. Captain Marvel
Release Date: March 8, 2019
Historical Timeline Date: 1995
Directors: Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck
Main Cast: Brie Larson (Carol Danvers / Captain Marvel), Samuel L. Jackson (Nick Fury), Ben Mendelsohn (Talos), Jude Law (Yon-Rogg), Annette Bening (Supreme Intelligence / Mar-Vell)
Major Villains: Yon-Rogg, Skrulls (initially), Kree Supreme Intelligence
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 45%, IMDB: 6.8/10
Plot Summary: Carol Danvers becomes Captain Marvel and fights the Kree while discovering her human past. She helps Nick Fury and shapes the origins of S.H.I.E.L.D.
Connection to Previous Movie: Explains Nick Fury’s past and establishes Carol Danvers as a key player for Endgame.
Setup for the Next Movie: Teases Captain Marvel’s connection to Avengers: Endgame.
Verified Trailer Link: Captain Marvel Trailer
3. Iron Man
Release Date: May 2, 2008
Historical Timeline Date: 2010
Director: Jon Favreau
Main Cast: Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark / Iron Man), Gwyneth Paltrow (Pepper Potts), Terrence Howard (James “Rhodey” Rhodes), Jeff Bridges (Obadiah Stane), Shaun Toub (Yinsen)
Major Villains: Obadiah Stane / Iron Monger
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 91%, IMDB: 7.9/10
Plot Summary: After being kidnapped, Tony Stark builds the first Iron Man suit and decides to change the focus of Stark Industries from weapons to humanitarian efforts, creating his iconic Iron Man persona.
Connection to Previous Movie: The first MCU movie, which starts Tony Stark's journey and introduces the Avengers Initiative in the post-credits scene.
Setup for the Next Movie: Leads into Iron Man 2, with Tony grappling with the fallout of his new identity.
Verified Trailer Link: Iron Man Trailer
4. Iron Man 2
Release Date: May 7, 2010
Historical Timeline Date: 2011
Director: Jon Favreau
Main Cast: Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark / Iron Man), Gwyneth Paltrow (Pepper Potts), Don Cheadle (James “Rhodey” Rhodes / War Machine), Mickey Rourke (Ivan Vanko / Whiplash), Scarlett Johansson (Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow)
Major Villains: Ivan Vanko / Whiplash, Justin Hammer
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 72%, IMDB: 7.0/10
Plot Summary: Tony faces health issues from the arc reactor in his chest while battling Whiplash and dealing with governmental pressure to share his technology. War Machine is introduced.
Connection to Previous Movie: Builds on Tony’s newfound fame as Iron Man, expands his universe with Black Widow and War Machine, and sets up S.H.I.E.L.D. for The Avengers.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up The Avengers with a deeper introduction to S.H.I.E.L.D. and Nick Fury’s plans.
Verified Trailer Link: Iron Man 2 Trailer
5. Thor
Release Date: May 6, 2011
Historical Timeline Date: 2011
Director: Kenneth Branagh
Main Cast: Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Natalie Portman (Jane Foster), Tom Hiddleston (Loki), Anthony Hopkins (Odin), Stellan Skarsgård (Erik Selvig)
Major Villains: Loki, Frost Giants
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 76%, IMDB: 7.0/10
Plot Summary: Thor, the god of thunder, is banished to Earth to learn humility after his arrogance endangers Asgard. He forms a connection with humans while dealing with Loki’s treachery back in Asgard.
Connection to Previous Movie: Introduces Thor and Loki, expanding the MCU’s cosmic side. Loki’s story leads directly into The Avengers.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up Loki’s villain role in The Avengers and establishes Thor’s importance to the team.
Verified Trailer Link: Thor Trailer
6. The Avengers
Release Date: May 4, 2012
Historical Timeline Date: 2012
Director: Joss Whedon
Main Cast: Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark / Iron Man), Chris Evans (Steve Rogers / Captain America), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Scarlett Johansson (Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow), Mark Ruffalo (Bruce Banner / Hulk)
Major Villains: Loki, Chitauri
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 91%, IMDB: 8.0/10
Plot Summary: Nick Fury assembles Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow, and Hawkeye to stop Loki from using the Tesseract to open a portal for an alien invasion. The team must come together to protect Earth.
Connection to Previous Movie: Brings together characters from Iron Man, Thor, and Captain America for the first major team-up movie. Loki is the antagonist, and the Tesseract plays a central role.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up the growing importance of the Infinity Stones, introduces Thanos in the post-credits scene, and establishes the Avengers as a formal team.
Verified Trailer Link: The Avengers Trailer
7. Iron Man 3
Release Date: May 3, 2013
Historical Timeline Date: 2013
Director: Shane Black
Main Cast: Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark / Iron Man), Gwyneth Paltrow (Pepper Potts), Don Cheadle (James “Rhodey” Rhodes / War Machine), Guy Pearce (Aldrich Killian), Ben Kingsley (Trevor Slattery / The Mandarin)
Major Villains: Aldrich Killian, The Mandarin (fake version)
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 78%, IMDB: 7.1/10
Plot Summary: Tony Stark faces PTSD after the events of The Avengers and battles Aldrich Killian, who uses the Extremis virus to enhance humans and terrorize the world under the guise of the Mandarin.
Connection to Previous Movie: Explores Tony’s struggles after The Avengers and his dependence on his Iron Man suits. Introduces War Machine more prominently.
Setup for the Next Movie: While not directly setting up the next Avengers movie, Tony’s character arc impacts Avengers: Age of Ultron.
Verified Trailer Link: Iron Man 3 Trailer
8. Thor: The Dark World
Release Date: November 8, 2013
Historical Timeline Date: 2013
Director: Alan Taylor
Main Cast: Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Natalie Portman (Jane Foster), Tom Hiddleston (Loki), Christopher Eccleston (Malekith), Anthony Hopkins (Odin)
Major Villains: Malekith, Kurse
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 75%, IMDB: 6.8/10
Plot Summary: Thor must prevent Malekith, the leader of the Dark Elves, from using the Aether (later revealed as the Reality Stone) to plunge the universe into darkness. Jane Foster is infected with the Aether, making her a target.
Connection to Previous Movie: Expands the cosmic side of the MCU and introduces the Reality Stone, another Infinity Stone that becomes crucial in Infinity War.
Setup for the Next Movie: Loki’s deceptive ascent to the throne of Asgard sets up events in Thor: Ragnarok.
Verified Trailer Link: Thor: The Dark World Trailer
9. Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Release Date: April 4, 2014
Historical Timeline Date: 2014
Directors: Anthony Russo & Joe Russo
Main Cast: Chris Evans (Steve Rogers / Captain America), Scarlett Johansson (Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow), Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes / Winter Soldier), Anthony Mackie (Sam Wilson / Falcon), Robert Redford (Alexander Pierce)
Major Villains: Winter Soldier, Alexander Pierce, HYDRA
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 92%, IMDB: 7.8/10
Plot Summary: Captain America uncovers a conspiracy that HYDRA has infiltrated S.H.I.E.L.D. while also confronting the return of his old friend, Bucky Barnes, who has been brainwashed as the Winter Soldier.
Connection to Previous Movie: S.H.I.E.L.D.’s collapse has lasting effects on the entire MCU and reshapes the power dynamics going forward.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up Bucky Barnes’ continuing arc and the dissolution of S.H.I.E.L.D., which impacts Avengers: Age of Ultron and Civil War.
Verified Trailer Link: Captain America: The Winter Soldier Trailer
10. Guardians of the Galaxy
Release Date: August 1, 2014
Historical Timeline Date: 2014
Director: James Gunn
Main Cast: Chris Pratt (Peter Quill / Star-Lord), Zoe Saldana (Gamora), Dave Bautista (Drax), Vin Diesel (Groot), Bradley Cooper (Rocket)
Major Villains: Ronan the Accuser, Thanos (brief appearance)
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 92%, IMDB: 8.0/10
Plot Summary: A group of outcasts comes together to stop Ronan, who wants to use the Power Stone to destroy planets. The Guardians bond over their shared mission and form a makeshift family.
Connection to Previous Movie: Introduces the Power Stone, one of the Infinity Stones, and features the first significant appearance of Thanos, setting up the conflict in Infinity War.
Setup for the Next Movie: The Guardians will cross paths with the Avengers in Infinity War, and the Power Stone becomes central to Thanos’ plan.
Verified Trailer Link: Guardians of the Galaxy Trailer
11. Avengers: Age of Ultron
Release Date: May 1, 2015
Historical Timeline Date: 2015
Director: Joss Whedon
Main Cast: Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark / Iron Man), Chris Evans (Steve Rogers / Captain America), Mark Ruffalo (Bruce Banner / Hulk), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Scarlett Johansson (Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow)
Major Villains: Ultron, HYDRA (initially)
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 83%, IMDB: 7.3/10
Plot Summary: The Avengers face off against Ultron, an AI created by Tony Stark and Bruce Banner that seeks to eliminate humanity. They also meet new allies, Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver, and create Vision, who wields the Mind Stone.
Connection to Previous Movie: Expands on Tony Stark’s fears from Iron Man 3 and introduces the Mind Stone, which becomes central to Infinity War.
Setup for the Next Movie: The division among the Avengers hinted at in this movie leads to Civil War. The Infinity Stones play an increasingly important role.
Verified Trailer Link: Avengers: Age of Ultron Trailer
12. Ant-Man
Release Date: July 17, 2015
Historical Timeline Date: 2015
Director: Peyton Reed
Main Cast: Paul Rudd (Scott Lang / Ant-Man), Michael Douglas (Hank Pym), Evangeline Lilly (Hope van Dyne), Corey Stoll (Darren Cross / Yellowjacket), Michael Peña (Luis)
Major Villains: Darren Cross / Yellowjacket
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 85%, IMDB: 7.3/10
Plot Summary: Scott Lang is recruited by Hank Pym to become the new Ant-Man and stop Darren Cross from weaponizing shrinking technology. The film introduces the Quantum Realm, which becomes vital later.
Connection to Previous Movie: Builds on the technological themes of the MCU and connects to S.H.I.E.L.D. Scott Lang’s involvement with the Avengers is hinted at.
Setup for the Next Movie: The Quantum Realm plays a key role in Avengers: Endgame and Ant-Man and the Wasp.
Verified Trailer Link: Ant-Man Trailer
13. Captain America: Civil War
Release Date: May 6, 2016
Historical Timeline Date: 2016
Directors: Anthony Russo & Joe Russo
Main Cast: Chris Evans (Steve Rogers / Captain America), Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark / Iron Man), Scarlett Johansson (Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow), Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes / Winter Soldier), Chadwick Boseman (T'Challa / Black Panther)
Major Villains: Helmut Zemo, Crossbones (briefly)
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 89%, IMDB: 7.8/10
Plot Summary: After a mission goes wrong, the Avengers are split over the Sokovia Accords, which require government oversight of superhero actions. The divide between Tony Stark and Steve Rogers escalates into a civil war among the heroes.
Connection to Previous Movie: Builds on the themes of government regulation introduced in Age of Ultron and the fallout from The Winter Soldier’s S.H.I.E.L.D. collapse.
Setup for the Next Movie: The Avengers are fractured, setting up the tension in Avengers: Infinity War. Black Panther and Spider-Man are introduced.
Verified Trailer Link: Captain America: Civil War Trailer
14. Doctor Strange
Release Date: November 4, 2016
Historical Timeline Date: 2016
Director: Scott Derrickson
Main Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch (Stephen Strange / Doctor Strange), Chiwetel Ejiofor (Karl Mordo), Rachel McAdams (Christine Palmer), Tilda Swinton (The Ancient One), Mads Mikkelsen (Kaecilius)
Major Villains: Kaecilius, Dormammu
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 86%, IMDB: 7.5/10
Plot Summary: Dr. Stephen Strange becomes a master of the mystic arts after a car accident ruins his hands. He confronts Kaecilius, who seeks to bring Dormammu, an interdimensional being, to Earth.
Connection to Previous Movie: Introduces magic to the MCU and the Time Stone, another Infinity Stone. Strange becomes a key figure in the Infinity Saga.
Setup for the Next Movie: Doctor Strange’s introduction into the MCU sets up his role in Infinity War and Endgame. The Time Stone becomes critical to Infinity War.
Verified Trailer Link: Doctor Strange Trailer
15. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
Release Date: May 5, 2017
Historical Timeline Date: 2014
Director: James Gunn
Main Cast: Chris Pratt (Peter Quill / Star-Lord), Zoe Saldana (Gamora), Dave Bautista (Drax), Vin Diesel (Groot), Bradley Cooper (Rocket)
Major Villains: Ego
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 87%, IMDB: 7.6/10
Plot Summary: Peter Quill meets his father, Ego, a Celestial who harbors sinister plans. The Guardians unite to stop him, exploring themes of family and identity.
Connection to Previous Movie: Expands the Guardians’ relationships and teases future ties to Thanos through Gamora. Ego introduces the Celestials, hinting at broader cosmic forces.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up the Guardians' involvement in Infinity War. The post-credits scene teases Adam Warlock’s introduction, though it doesn’t appear until later in the MCU.
Verified Trailer Link: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Trailer
16. Spider-Man: Homecoming
Release Date: July 7, 2017
Historical Timeline Date: 2016-2017
Director: Jon Watts
Main Cast: Tom Holland (Peter Parker / Spider-Man), Michael Keaton (Adrian Toomes / Vulture), Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark / Iron Man), Zendaya (MJ), Jacob Batalon (Ned Leeds)
Major Villains: Adrian Toomes / Vulture
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 87%, IMDB: 7.4/10
Plot Summary: Peter Parker balances life as a high schooler and superhero while dealing with the Vulture, a man using alien tech salvaged from The Avengers' Battle of New York.
Connection to Previous Movie: Builds on Peter Parker’s introduction in Civil War. Tony Stark serves as his mentor, influencing Peter’s character arc throughout the MCU.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up Spider-Man’s larger role in Infinity War and Far From Home. The end-credits tease future conflicts with the reveal of Scorpion.
Verified Trailer Link: Spider-Man: Homecoming Trailer
17. Thor: Ragnarok
Release Date: November 3, 2017
Historical Timeline Date: 2017
Director: Taika Waititi
Main Cast: Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Tom Hiddleston (Loki), Cate Blanchett (Hela), Mark Ruffalo (Bruce Banner / Hulk), Tessa Thompson (Valkyrie)
Major Villains: Hela
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 87%, IMDB: 7.9/10
Plot Summary: Thor, Hulk, and Valkyrie team up to stop Hela, the goddess of death, who returns to take over Asgard. Along the way, Thor learns the importance of teamwork and sacrifice.
Connection to Previous Movie: Follows up Age of Ultron by explaining Hulk’s absence and continues Thor and Loki’s relationship. It sets up the destruction of Asgard.
Setup for the Next Movie: The post-credits scene directly leads into Infinity War with Thor’s ship encountering Thanos.
Verified Trailer Link: Thor: Ragnarok Trailer
18. Black Panther
Release Date: February 16, 2018
Historical Timeline Date: 2017-2018
Director: Ryan Coogler
Main Cast: Chadwick Boseman (T'Challa / Black Panther), Michael B. Jordan (Erik Killmonger), Lupita Nyong'o (Nakia), Danai Gurira (Okoye), Letitia Wright (Shuri)
Major Villains: Erik Killmonger, Ulysses Klaue (secondary villain)
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 79%, IMDB: 7.3/10
Plot Summary: After the death of King T'Chaka, T'Challa must assume the throne of Wakanda. He faces a challenge from his cousin Erik Killmonger, who wants to use Wakanda's technology to overthrow global powers.
Connection to Previous Movie: Builds on T'Challa’s introduction in Civil War and deepens the exploration of Wakanda’s role in the MCU.
Setup for the Next Movie: Wakanda plays a central role in Infinity War as the final battleground against Thanos. The movie also solidifies Black Panther as a key figure in the MCU.
Verified Trailer Link: Black Panther Trailer
19. Avengers: Infinity War
Release Date: April 27, 2018
Historical Timeline Date: 2018
Directors: Anthony Russo & Joe Russo
Main Cast: Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark / Iron Man), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Mark Ruffalo (Bruce Banner / Hulk), Chris Evans (Steve Rogers / Captain America), Josh Brolin (Thanos)
Major Villains: Thanos
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 91%, IMDB: 8.4/10
Plot Summary: Thanos embarks on a quest to collect all six Infinity Stones and wipe out half of all life in the universe. The Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy, and others unite to stop him but ultimately fail. Thanos succeeds in "The Snap."
Connection to Previous Movie: Combines nearly every previous MCU film, with Thanos as the overarching villain seeking the Infinity Stones introduced throughout the series.
Setup for the Next Movie: Ends with a cliffhanger, leading directly into Avengers: Endgame, where the heroes must reverse the devastating effects of the snap.
Verified Trailer Link: Avengers: Infinity War Trailer
20. Ant-Man and the Wasp
Release Date: July 6, 2018
Historical Timeline Date: 2018
Director: Peyton Reed
Main Cast: Paul Rudd (Scott Lang / Ant-Man), Evangeline Lilly (Hope van Dyne / Wasp), Michael Douglas (Hank Pym), Michelle Pfeiffer (Janet van Dyne), Hannah John-Kamen (Ava Starr / Ghost)
Major Villains: Ava Starr / Ghost (antagonist rather than traditional villain)
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 80%, IMDB: 7.0/10
Plot Summary: Scott Lang teams up with Hope van Dyne to rescue her mother, Janet, from the Quantum Realm, while also dealing with a new adversary, Ava Starr, who can phase through objects.
Connection to Previous Movie: Follows up the events of Captain America: Civil War, explaining why Scott wasn’t involved in Infinity War. The Quantum Realm becomes a major plot device.
Setup for the Next Movie: The post-credits scene ties directly into Endgame, with Scott Lang trapped in the Quantum Realm after the snap.
Verified Trailer Link: Ant-Man an
21. Avengers: Endgame
Release Date: April 26, 2019
Historical Timeline Date: 2018-2023
Directors: Anthony Russo & Joe Russo
Main Cast: Robert Downey Jr. (Tony Stark / Iron Man), Chris Evans (Steve Rogers / Captain America), Mark Ruffalo (Bruce Banner / Hulk), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Scarlett Johansson (Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow)
Major Villains: Thanos
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 90%, IMDB: 8.4/10
Plot Summary: The surviving Avengers devise a plan to undo Thanos' snap by traveling back in time to retrieve the Infinity Stones. After a final battle, Tony Stark sacrifices himself to save the universe, and Steve Rogers retires.
Connection to Previous Movie: Concludes the Infinity Saga and directly follows the events of Infinity War. The film revisits key moments from the MCU’s history through time travel.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up the future of the MCU, with new leaders like Sam Wilson’s Captain America, while closing the arcs for characters like Iron Man and Captain America.
Verified Trailer Link: Avengers: Endgame Trailer
22. Spider-Man: Far From Home
Release Date: July 2, 2019
Historical Timeline Date: 2023
Director: Jon Watts
Main Cast: Tom Holland (Peter Parker / Spider-Man), Jake Gyllenhaal (Quentin Beck / Mysterio), Zendaya (MJ), Jacob Batalon (Ned Leeds), Samuel L. Jackson (Nick Fury)
Major Villains: Mysterio
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 95%, IMDB: 7.4/10
Plot Summary: Peter Parker tries to balance his high school life and superhero responsibilities following Tony Stark's death. During a school trip to Europe, he faces Mysterio, a master illusionist, and learns valuable lessons about heroism and deception.
Connection to Previous Movie: Explores the aftermath of Tony Stark's death in Endgame, and Peter’s struggle with the burden of living up to Iron Man's legacy.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up the next Spider-Man film with the reveal that Peter Parker’s identity has been exposed to the world.
Verified Trailer Link: Spider-Man: Far From Home Trailer
23. Black Widow
Release Date: July 9, 2021
Historical Timeline Date: 2016
Director: Cate Shortland
Main Cast: Scarlett Johansson (Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow), Florence Pugh (Yelena Belova), David Harbour (Alexei Shostakov / Red Guardian), Rachel Weisz (Melina Vostokoff), Ray Winstone (Dreykov)
Major Villains: Dreykov, Taskmaster (controlled by Dreykov)
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 91%, IMDB: 6.7/10
Plot Summary: Set after Civil War, Natasha Romanoff goes on the run and confronts her past in the Red Room. Along the way, she reconnects with her "family" and confronts Dreykov, who has been controlling the Red Room and the Taskmaster program.
Connection to Previous Movie: Provides closure for Black Widow’s backstory and explains what she was doing between Civil War and Infinity War. It also introduces Yelena Belova, who plays a role in future MCU projects.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up Yelena's role in future MCU projects, including Hawkeye and the Thunderbolts team.
Verified Trailer Link: Black Widow Trailer
24. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings
Release Date: September 3, 2021
Historical Timeline Date: 2024
Director: Destin Daniel Cretton
Main Cast: Simu Liu (Shang-Chi), Awkwafina (Katy), Tony Leung (Wenwu / The Mandarin), Meng’er Zhang (Xialing), Michelle Yeoh (Ying Nan)
Major Villains: Wenwu / The Mandarin
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 98%, IMDB: 7.4/10
Plot Summary: Shang-Chi must confront his past and the Ten Rings organization, led by his father, Wenwu (The Mandarin). With the help of his friends, Shang-Chi uncovers the truth behind the mystical power of the Ten Rings and battles dark forces threatening the universe.
Connection to Previous Movie: Expands the MCU's mystical side and introduces a new hero in Shang-Chi, whose powers are linked to the Ten Rings. The movie also ties back to the Iron Man trilogy through the Ten Rings' origin.
Setup for the Next Movie: Teases Shang-Chi's role in future MCU films, possibly connected to the Avengers, with a post-credits scene featuring Wong, Bruce Banner, and Carol Danvers.
Verified Trailer Link: Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings Trailer
25. Eternals
Release Date: November 5, 2021
Historical Timeline Date: Thousands of years ago to 2021
Director: Chloé Zhao
Main Cast: Gemma Chan (Sersi), Richard Madden (Ikaris), Angelina Jolie (Thena), Salma Hayek (Ajak), Kit Harington (Dane Whitman)
Major Villains: Deviants, Arishem (Celestial judge)
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 78%, IMDB: 6.3/10
Plot Summary: The Eternals, a group of immortal beings, have secretly lived on Earth for thousands of years, protecting humanity from the Deviants. When the Deviants re-emerge, the Eternals must reunite to prevent the Celestials from destroying the planet.
Connection to Previous Movie: Expands the cosmic mythology of the MCU and introduces a new set of immortal heroes who will play a key role in future MCU storylines.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up possible conflicts with the Celestials in future MCU films and teases the introduction of Dane Whitman as the Black Knight.
Verified Trailer Link: Eternals Trailer
26. Spider-Man: No Way Home
Release Date: December 17, 2021
Historical Timeline Date: 2021
Director: Jon Watts
Main Cast: Tom Holland (Peter Parker / Spider-Man), Zendaya (MJ), Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange), Jacob Batalon (Ned Leeds), Willem Dafoe (Green Goblin), Alfred Molina (Doctor Octopus), Jamie Foxx (Electro), Andrew Garfield (Peter Parker / Spider-Man from another universe), Tobey Maguire (Peter Parker / Spider-Man from another universe)
Major Villains: Green Goblin, Doctor Octopus, Electro
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 98%, IMDB: 8.3/10
Plot Summary: Peter Parker’s identity as Spider-Man is exposed to the world, and he seeks Doctor Strange’s help to undo it. However, a spell goes wrong, bringing villains from other universes into his reality. Peter teams up with alternate versions of himself to stop these villains and restore the multiverse.
Connection to Previous Movie: Directly follows Far From Home and explores the multiverse concept, previously introduced in Doctor Strange and Loki. It sets up future multiverse storylines.
Setup for the Next Movie: Introduces the multiverse as a major element in the MCU, setting up Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and future Spider-Man stories.
Verified Trailer Link: Spider-Man: No Way Home Trailer
27. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
Release Date: May 6, 2022
Historical Timeline Date: 2022
Director: Sam Raimi
Main Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange), Elizabeth Olsen (Wanda Maximoff / Scarlet Witch), Rachel McAdams (Christine Palmer), Chiwetel Ejiofor (Karl Mordo), Xochitl Gomez (America Chavez)
Major Villains: Scarlet Witch, multiverse threats
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 85%, IMDB: 7.0/10
Plot Summary: Doctor Strange teams up with America Chavez, a young girl with the ability to travel through the multiverse, to stop Scarlet Witch, who seeks to use Chavez's powers to reunite with her lost children. Strange must navigate the multiverse to prevent its collapse.
Connection to Previous Movie: Directly follows the multiverse themes introduced in Spider-Man: No Way Home and WandaVision. The concept of alternate realities and multiverse threats becomes a central focus of the MCU.
Setup for the Next Movie: Expands the multiverse storyline, setting up future MCU projects involving alternate realities, such as Loki Season 2 and What If...?.
Verified Trailer Link: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Trailer
28. Thor: Love and Thunder
Release Date: July 8, 2022
Historical Timeline Date: 2022
Director: Taika Waititi
Main Cast: Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Natalie Portman (Jane Foster / Mighty Thor), Tessa Thompson (Valkyrie), Christian Bale (Gorr the God Butcher), Russell Crowe (Zeus)
Major Villains: Gorr the God Butcher
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 77%, IMDB: 6.4/10
Plot Summary: Thor teams up with Valkyrie and his ex-girlfriend, Jane Foster, who has become the Mighty Thor, to stop Gorr the God Butcher, a being who seeks to destroy all gods. Thor must find inner peace while confronting his greatest enemies.
Connection to Previous Movie: Continues Thor’s journey from Avengers: Endgame and builds on his relationship with Jane Foster and Valkyrie. It also expands the MCU’s cosmic mythology.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up future cosmic adventures in the MCU, including potential conflicts with gods like Zeus and new threats across the universe.
Verified Trailer Link: Thor: Love and Thunder Trailer
29. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
Release Date: November 11, 2022
Historical Timeline Date: 2023
Director: Ryan Coogler
Main Cast: Letitia Wright (Shuri), Lupita Nyong'o (Nakia), Danai Gurira (Okoye), Winston Duke (M'Baku), Tenoch Huerta (Namor)
Major Villains: Namor
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 94%, IMDB: 7.2/10
Plot Summary: After the death of King T'Challa, Wakanda is left vulnerable. As Queen Ramonda, Shuri, M'Baku, and the Dora Milaje struggle to protect their nation from world powers, a new threat emerges from the underwater kingdom of Talokan, led by Namor.
Connection to Previous Movie: Continues the story of Wakanda following Black Panther and Avengers: Endgame, dealing with the aftermath of T'Challa’s death and introducing Namor as a new major player in the MCU.
Setup for the Next Movie: Introduces Namor and Talokan as potential future allies or antagonists in the MCU. Sets up Shuri’s new role as the Black Panther.
Verified Trailer Link: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Trailer
30. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania
Release Date: February 17, 2023
Historical Timeline Date: 2025
Director: Peyton Reed
Main Cast: Paul Rudd (Scott Lang / Ant-Man), Evangeline Lilly (Hope van Dyne / Wasp), Michael Douglas (Hank Pym), Michelle Pfeiffer (Janet van Dyne), Jonathan Majors (Kang the Conqueror)
Major Villains: Kang the Conqueror
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: 83%, IMDB: 6.2/10
Plot Summary: Scott Lang and Hope van Dyne find themselves exploring the Quantum Realm, where they encounter Kang the Conqueror, a villain with the ability to manipulate time and space. As they navigate the complexities of the Quantum Realm, the group must work together to stop Kang’s rise to power.
Connection to Previous Movie: Expands on the Quantum Realm’s importance, first introduced in Ant-Man and Endgame. Kang’s introduction ties into the multiverse and time-travel themes explored in Loki and Doctor Strange.
Setup for the Next Movie: Kang the Conqueror becomes a major threat in the MCU’s future, particularly in Avengers: The Kang Dynasty. The Quantum Realm is positioned as a critical element in future MCU films.
Verified Trailer Link: Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania Trailer
31. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
Release Date: May 5, 2023
Historical Timeline Date: 2023
Director: James Gunn
Main Cast: Chris Pratt (Peter Quill / Star-Lord), Zoe Saldana (Gamora), Dave Bautista (Drax), Vin Diesel (Groot), Bradley Cooper (Rocket)
Major Villains: Adam Warlock, High Evolutionary (potentially)
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: N/A, IMDB: N/A
Plot Summary: The Guardians face new cosmic threats as they navigate their future as a team. Peter Quill continues to grapple with the loss of Gamora and must protect the family he has built while confronting powerful new enemies.
Connection to Previous Movie: Continues the storyline from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 and builds on the events of Avengers: Endgame, where the Guardians last appeared. The film introduces Adam Warlock, teased in the post-credits scene of Vol. 2.
Setup for the Next Movie: Adam Warlock's introduction could lead to major cosmic storylines, impacting the future of the MCU's cosmic heroes. The Guardians' role may evolve or conclude in this film, depending on the storyline.
Verified Trailer Link: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Trailer
32. The Marvels
Release Date: November 10, 2023
Historical Timeline Date: 2024
Director: Nia DaCosta
Main Cast: Brie Larson (Carol Danvers / Captain Marvel), Iman Vellani (Kamala Khan / Ms. Marvel), Teyonah Parris (Monica Rambeau)
Major Villains: Unspecified cosmic threat (potential)
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: N/A, IMDB: N/A
Plot Summary: Carol Danvers, Kamala Khan, and Monica Rambeau discover that their powers are mysteriously connected. They must work together to uncover the cause and face cosmic threats that test their individual strengths and bond as a team.
Connection to Previous Movie: Builds on Captain Marvel, WandaVision, and Ms. Marvel, bringing together all three key female superheroes. The film will also likely continue the exploration of cosmic threats introduced in the previous MCU phases.
Setup for the Next Movie: This film could set up the formation of a new team of Avengers or cosmic heroes, as well as lead to further exploration of the multiverse and cosmic threats.
Verified Trailer Link: The Marvels Trailer
33. Blade
Release Date: September 6, 2024
Historical Timeline Date: TBA
Director: Bassam Tariq
Main Cast: Mahershala Ali (Blade)
Major Villains: Unspecified vampire threats
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: N/A, IMDB: N/A
Plot Summary: Blade, a half-vampire and half-human vampire hunter, returns to combat a growing vampire threat. The movie will explore Blade’s origins and his fight against the supernatural while expanding on the darker, more mystical side of the MCU.
Connection to Previous Movie: Blade’s introduction into the MCU will likely tie into the supernatural and mystical elements already introduced in Doctor Strange, WandaVision, and Werewolf by Night.
Setup for the Next Movie: Blade’s introduction may pave the way for future supernatural and horror-themed MCU projects, such as potential team-ups with characters like Doctor Strange or Moon Knight.
Verified Trailer Link: Trailer not yet released.
34. Captain America: New World Order
Release Date: May 3, 2024
Historical Timeline Date: 2024
Director: Julius Onah
Main Cast: Anthony Mackie (Sam Wilson / Captain America), Danny Ramirez (Joaquin Torres), Carl Lumbly (Isaiah Bradley), Tim Blake Nelson (The Leader)
Major Villains: The Leader
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: N/A, IMDB: N/A
Plot Summary: Sam Wilson takes on the mantle of Captain America and faces new geopolitical challenges. He will confront a variety of threats, including The Leader, a villain first introduced in The Incredible Hulk, who now plays a pivotal role in global instability.
Connection to Previous Movie: Directly continues from The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, where Sam officially accepted the Captain America mantle. The film also continues themes introduced in Captain America: The Winter Soldier regarding government control and morality.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up Sam Wilson as one of the key leaders of the Avengers and explores new political and global threats that could influence future Avengers storylines.
Verified Trailer Link: Trailer not yet released.
35. Thunderbolts
Release Date: July 26, 2024
Historical Timeline Date: 2024
Director: Jake Schreier
Main Cast: Florence Pugh (Yelena Belova), Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes / Winter Soldier), David Harbour (Red Guardian), Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Valentina Allegra de Fontaine), Wyatt Russell (John Walker / U.S. Agent)
Major Villains: Likely internal team conflicts and external threats
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: N/A, IMDB: N/A
Plot Summary: The Thunderbolts, a team of anti-heroes and reformed villains, are recruited by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine to carry out covert missions. The team’s dynamics and past misdeeds may create internal conflicts, while external threats loom large.
Connection to Previous Movie: Follows on from the events of Black Widow, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, and Hawkeye, bringing together characters with morally ambiguous pasts. It explores themes of redemption, government control, and the grey area between heroes and villains.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up the Thunderbolts as a potential recurring team in the MCU, possibly leading to future conflicts with the Avengers or other hero teams. Could also tie into larger global or multiversal threats.
Verified Trailer Link: Trailer not yet released.
36. Fantastic Four
Release Date: February 14, 2025
Historical Timeline Date: TBA
Director: Matt Shakman
Main Cast: To be announced
Major Villains: Doctor Doom (rumored), Galactus (potential)
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: N/A, IMDB: N/A
Plot Summary: The Fantastic Four, Marvel’s first family, will be introduced into the MCU. The film will explore their origins and the discovery of their superpowers, as well as their confrontations with powerful villains like Doctor Doom and potentially cosmic-level threats like Galactus.
Connection to Previous Movie: The introduction of the Fantastic Four is expected to connect to other cosmic MCU storylines such as those explored in Guardians of the Galaxy and The Marvels. It may also introduce characters that will become central to future Avengers or multiverse storylines.
Setup for the Next Movie: The Fantastic Four’s introduction will likely have significant ramifications for the MCU, as their scientific expertise and cosmic adventures can tie into broader universe-wide conflicts and threats, such as those posed by Kang the Conqueror.
Verified Trailer Link: Trailer not yet released.
37. Avengers: The Kang Dynasty
Release Date: May 2, 2025
Historical Timeline Date: 2025
Director: Destin Daniel Cretton
Main Cast: Jonathan Majors (Kang the Conqueror), multiple Avengers and new MCU heroes (to be announced)
Major Villains: Kang the Conqueror
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: N/A, IMDB: N/A
Plot Summary: The Avengers must unite to face their most formidable foe yet: Kang the Conqueror. With his mastery of time travel and alternate realities, Kang poses an existential threat to the multiverse, and the Avengers will need to navigate different timelines to stop him.
Connection to Previous Movie: Builds on the multiverse and time-travel concepts introduced in Loki, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. Kang’s rise as a villain will challenge the Avengers in ways they have never faced before.
Setup for the Next Movie: Sets up the final film of Phase 6, Avengers: Secret Wars, where the multiverse conflict will reach its climax. Kang’s defeat (or victory) will have lasting consequences for the future of the MCU.
Verified Trailer Link: Trailer not yet released.
38. Avengers: Secret Wars
Release Date: May 1, 2026
Historical Timeline Date: 2026
Director: To be announced
Main Cast: To be announced (likely includes all major MCU heroes and returning characters from across the multiverse)
Major Villains: Multiple, likely Kang, Doctor Doom, or cosmic entities
Rating: Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score: N/A, IMDB: N/A
Plot Summary: The culmination of the multiverse storyline, Secret Wars will see various heroes and villains from different realities collide. The multiverse is at risk of collapsing, and the Avengers must team up with alternate versions of themselves to stop it.
Connection to Previous Movie: The direct sequel to Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, it will conclude the multiverse saga and explore the full implications of alternate realities and timelines on the MCU.
Setup for the Next Movie: Likely to serve as a conclusion for the current MCU multiverse saga. It may reboot the MCU or introduce new characters and worlds to explore in the future.
Verified Trailer Link: Trailer not yet released.
With this comprehensive list of MCU movies, you're now fully equipped to dive into Marvel's epic, ever-expanding universe. Whether you're revisiting old favorites or eagerly awaiting the next big release, the MCU continues to offer thrilling stories and unforgettable heroes! Download a 1-page sheet checklist to watch everyone in historical order.
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