All 37 MCU Movies Ranked From Worst to Best – last one released is ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’

The Marvel Cinematic Universe, from its beginnings with the Infinity Saga through the current Multiverse era, has become known for its connected stories, intriguing post-credit scenes, and huge success at the box office. This is a ranking of every MCU movie so far, starting with the least and ending with the most critically acclaimed. Each description provides key information – the cast, the story’s beginning, and how the movie fits into the overall universe – so you can quickly understand its place in the larger narrative.

‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ (2022)

Thor reconnects with Jane Foster, who has become the powerful Mighty Thor and now possesses Mjolnir. Meanwhile, a villain named Gorr is hunting gods throughout the universe. The story returns to New Asgard and introduces Omnipotence City, a gathering place for the gods. We learn more about the history and magic behind both Stormbreaker and Mjolnir, including how they choose their wielders. The ending hints at the emergence of a new hero connected to a significant god.

‘The Marvels’ (2023)

In this film, Carol Danvers joins forces with Monica Rambeau and Kamala Khan after a strange event causes their powers to become linked. The story continues directly from the events of ‘WandaVision’ and ‘Ms. Marvel,’ delving deeper into the complex relationships between the Kree and Skrull aliens. The movie features spectacular scenes set both on Earth and in space, with characters teleporting between locations. A short scene after the credits hints at a larger, interconnected multiverse and includes an unexpected guest appearance.

‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’ (2023)

In the latest film, Scott Lang and Hope van Dyne journey into the Quantum Realm with the Pyms and face off against Kang the Conqueror. The movie officially establishes Kang and his empire as a major, overarching threat, building on hints from previous films. It focuses heavily on creating a fantastical world with unique civilizations and strange creatures. The ending suggests that these events will have significant, far-reaching consequences across the multiverse, hinting at a council of Kangs and the existence of multiple versions of the character.

‘Eternals’ (2021)

After remaining hidden for centuries, a group of immortal beings steps forward to prevent a catastrophic event called the Emergence. The film explores the distant past of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, traveling through ancient civilizations to reveal the Celestials as the creators of the universe. It also introduces the Deviants, explains how memories can be wiped, and shows how planets are seeded with life. Finally, scenes after the credits hint at new powerful cosmic characters and a mysterious, ancient cursed sword.

‘The Incredible Hulk’ (2008)

Bruce Banner, also known as the Hulk, is searching for a way to reverse his condition while being hunted by General Ross and battling a new enemy, the Abomination. This story lays the groundwork for Tony Stark’s future humanitarian efforts and explores the dangerous consequences of the super-soldier serum. It also defines how the Marvel Cinematic Universe handles gamma radiation and the idea of heroes forced to live on the run. Characters like Ross and Blonsky, and events at a specific university, will reappear in later Marvel movies and shows.

‘Iron Man 2’ (2010)

In this film, Tony Stark faces a dangerous battle with a life-threatening illness caused by palladium, as well as conflicts with a resentful inventor and his business competitor, Justin Hammer. We’re introduced to Natasha Romanoff, working in secret for S.H.I.E.L.D., and see the beginnings of the Avengers Initiative. The movie also pushes the boundaries of Tony Stark’s arc reactor technology, showcasing innovative designs like the portable Mark V suit and the use of drones. Finally, Rhodey steps into a new role as War Machine, equipped with advanced armor provided by the government.

‘Thor: The Dark World’ (2013)

During a cosmic event called the Convergence, the Dark Elf Malekith seeks the Aether, which is now revealed to be the Reality Stone – one of the powerful Infinity Stones. Meanwhile, Loki secretly plots to destabilize Asgard, setting the stage for future conflicts. In a scene after the credits, the Collector acquires the Stone, hinting at its importance in upcoming stories.

‘Ant-Man and the Wasp’ (2018)

Scott Lang and Hope team up to save Scott’s mother, Janet van Dyne, after she becomes trapped in the bizarre Quantum Realm. The movie explains the science behind traveling through this realm, including concepts like quantum tunneling, entanglement, and how time works differently there. The villain, Ghost, has a dangerous condition where she can phase in and out of reality, and her survival depends on a risky and unstable energy source. A scene after the main story connects the characters’ journeys to the events of Thanos’s snap, setting up future storylines.

‘Captain Marvel’ (2019)

In the 1990s, Carol Danvers discovers secrets about her past as she’s pulled into the conflict between the Kree and Skrull races. The movie reveals how the Tesseract ended up where it did and shows how Nick Fury first started using his iconic beeper. It also introduces the technology for faster-than-light travel and a unique power system for fighting in space. The film’s depiction of a younger S.H.I.E.L.D. lays the groundwork for future stories and characters.

‘Black Widow’ (2021)

In the time between the events of ‘Civil War’ and ‘Infinity War’, Natasha Romanoff faces her past by dealing with the Red Room, the program that trained her, and reconnects with family she thought she’d left behind. The movie reveals how the Red Room chemically controlled its agents and operated a secret network of spies around the world. We also meet Yelena Belova, Red Guardian, and Melina Vostokoff, who add to the story of Russian espionage. A post-credits scene hints at Yelena being recruited for future missions with a team that operates in the gray areas of morality.

‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’ (2022)

Doctor Strange tries to find the Book of Vishanti to shield America Chavez from the Scarlet Witch, who has been corrupted by dark magic. The movie explains key concepts like incursions (when universes collide), dream-walking (entering others’ dreams), and how different universes are categorized. It also shows a group of alternate versions of heroes acting as a kind of governing body for the multiverse. The film expands on the history of the Darkhold and Mount Wundagore, establishing more detailed rules for magic that will likely be important for future stories.

‘Thor’ (2011)

After being banished to Earth, Thor learns a valuable lesson in humility, while his brother Loki schemes to take over Asgard. The film reveals the Bifrost, a way to travel between worlds, and explains the rules of Odin’s magic. We also see how S.H.I.E.L.D. secures powerful objects at a base in New Mexico. A short scene after the credits hints at the importance of a mysterious cosmic cube, which will play a major role in future events.

‘Captain America: The First Avenger’ (2011)

Steve Rogers bravely volunteers for an experimental program called Project Rebirth and fights against the evil organization Hydra, led by Johann Schmidt. The movie shows how the super-soldier serum and the rare metal vibranium are first developed, and reveals the history of the powerful Tesseract during World War II. Afterward, S.H.I.E.L.D. finds Captain America’s shield and revives the frozen Steve Rogers in the present day. We also see the origins of future spy agencies through the work of Peggy Carter and the SSR.

‘Iron Man 3’ (2013)

Following the Battle of New York, Tony Stark struggles with post-traumatic stress and the effects of the Extremis technology he used. The story delves into how his Iron Man armor can operate on its own and be controlled from a distance using a new system called the House Party Protocol. While Extremis offers incredible healing abilities, it also comes with dangerous risks. The story concludes by freeing Tony from his reliance on the arc reactor in his chest and hinting at how his armor will continue to develop in the future.

‘Ant-Man’ (2015)

In the movie, Scott Lang discovers how to shrink and grow using Pym Particles and quantum physics, initially as part of a plan to steal technology from Yellowjacket. The film explains the science behind changing size – how mass is conserved – and even explores how ants can communicate telepathically. It also connects to the larger Marvel universe with a visit to a facility belonging to the Falcon. Importantly, the quantum concepts introduced here lay the foundation for the time travel plot in Avengers: Endgame.

‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’ (2019)

In the movie, Peter Parker fights deceptive illusions created by Mysterio all over Europe. The story involves powerful holographic drones used as weapons and the dangerous misuse of technology created by Tony Stark. A post-credits scene reveals Spider-Man’s secret identity, dramatically changing his place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This revelation also officially introduces the possibility of a key character taking on a leadership role beyond Earth.

‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ (2017)

Okay, so ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ really nailed it for me. It’s a fantastic look at what being a superhero actually looks like for a teenager – juggling homework with hanging out with Iron Man, which is pretty cool, and trying to stop a new villain, the Vulture. What I loved is that it felt very grounded. The story connects the fallout from ‘The Avengers’ battle to everyday crime, showing how alien tech is being used on the streets. Plus, it really explores the consequences of the Sokovia Accords – how those rules impact even the smaller heroes. It’s a really smart way to weave Spider-Man into the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe, but it keeps the action focused on a relatable, neighborhood level. Definitely a fun and engaging ride!

‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ (2022)

Following the death of King T’Challa, Wakanda is dealing with international tensions and the emergence of a secret underwater civilization called Talokan. A new technology that detects vibranium causes conflict with Talokan, while a young inventor named Riri Williams unveils an early version of a powerful suit, hinting at future adventures. These events also lead to changes in Wakanda’s government and its role in the world.

‘Doctor Strange’ (2016)

A skilled surgeon discovers magic while training with the Ancient One and must battle Kaecilius and Dormammu. The film introduces concepts like the Mirror Dimension, magical teleportation through sling rings, and negotiating within time loops. It also sets up the future network of Sanctums and defenses against threats from the multiverse. This is where the story begins regarding the safeguarding of the Time Stone, which will be crucial in upcoming conflicts.

‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ (2021)

Shang-Chi faces off against Wenwu and the real power behind the Ten Rings. These rings aren’t just jewelry – they’re a powerful, ancient energy source. The story also explores the hidden world of Ta Lo, filled with magical creatures and unique environments. Interestingly, after the movie ends, clues suggest the rings’ energy might come from somewhere even beyond our galaxy.

‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2’ (2017)

The movie follows the team as they try to stop Ego’s universal scheme, all while exploring the importance of family. We learn more about the Ravagers, including their secret codes, and discover Yondu’s history with Stakar’s team. The film also reveals more about the Celestials, which becomes important in future Marvel cosmic adventures. And, a scene after the credits shows a cocoon, hinting at a powerful new character to come.

‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ (2015)

Tony Stark and Bruce Banner’s attempt to create an artificial intelligence for defense goes terribly wrong, leading to a worldwide danger. The film shows how the heroes gain access to powerful Vibranium technology, witnesses the devastating destruction of Sokovia, and marks the creation of the being known as Vision. It also lays the groundwork for the Sokovia Accords, which will eventually cause a rift within the team. We learn about Wanda and Pietro Maximoff’s backstory, revealing how their powers are connected to dangerous experiments involving a mysterious scepter.

‘Captain America: Brave New World’ (2025)

Sam Wilson continues his journey as Captain America, dealing with complicated conflicts between nations. The story also follows General Ross and the changing world of super-soldier programs. It blends the iconic imagery of Captain America’s shield with the formation of new partnerships around the globe, and hints that smaller, local problems are connected to larger plans for the future.

‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

A team of flawed and unconventional heroes is sent on a secretive mission with little accountability. The movie brings together characters with backgrounds in spying, the aftermath of events in Wakanda, and experiments with super-soldiers. It explores how governments use and control people with special abilities, often through covert operations. This approach continues a pattern established in previous films, where morally ambiguous characters were introduced and tested.

‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ (2024)

Deadpool travels through time and ends up meeting Wolverine because of problems with the multiverse. The movie blends Deadpool’s self-aware humor with the established Marvel Cinematic Universe, and references previous storylines. It uses the time travel rules from shows like Loki to explain how characters from different universes can meet. The film also includes appearances from past characters and nods to the older Fox-produced Marvel movies, integrating them into the current Marvel story.

‘Black Panther’ (2018)

When T’Challa becomes king, Wakanda’s long-held secrecy is threatened. The film explores Wakandan traditions like the ceremonies surrounding the heart-shaped herb, its unique system of tribal rule, and its incredible technology based on vibranium. We see the skilled warriors of the Dora Milaje and the country’s highly advanced cities and systems. Ultimately, the story reimagines Wakanda as a leader in both science and global politics.

‘The Fantastic 4: First Steps’ (2025)

After a science experiment goes awry, Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm develop incredible abilities. The story showcases their work at the Baxter Foundation, highlighting them as leaders in groundbreaking research. It presents a realistic take on travel between dimensions, tying into broader scientific ideas about the multiverse. The narrative ends with a hint of the family’s connection to a vast cosmic world and the challenges they’ll face in the future.

‘The Avengers’ (2012)

The Avengers unite to fight off an attack by Loki and the Chitauri. The movie firmly establishes the team dynamic, the use of the helicarrier, and how global responses to threats will work. It also starts the now-common practice of adding extra scenes after the credits, hinting at future storylines. The battle in New York becomes a key event that influences decisions and strategies in later films.

‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’ (2023)

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 centers on a desperate mission to rescue Rocket and face off against the High Evolutionary. The movie brings satisfying conclusions to several character storylines and sets up a new team dynamic. It delves into themes of genetic engineering, the morality of creating life, and the dark side of powerful organizations in space. The film concludes by revealing who will lead the Guardians moving forward.

‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014)

A group of unlikely heroes comes together because of a mysterious Orb that contains a powerful Stone. The movie introduces the criminal underworld, the rules of the Nova Corps, and the mining operations on Knowhere. It also sets the exciting, space-based atmosphere for future installments, and the music becomes a key part of how these stories are told.

‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016)

After a failed mission, a new political agreement causes friction within the Avengers. The movie showcases the advanced nation of Wakanda and formally introduces Spider-Man and Black Panther to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It explores the complex issue of who should oversee people with superpowers, prompting international debate. The resulting conflict, a massive battle at an airport, dramatically shifts the team’s relationships and alliances for a long time.

‘Thor: Ragnarok’ (2017)

As a huge cinema fan, I was completely blown away by Thor: Ragnarok! The film throws Thor into a wild fight against Hela, and even a gladiator version of Hulk on this crazy planet called Sakaar, all while Asgard is facing total destruction with Ragnarok. What really surprised me was how they changed Thor’s abilities and, honestly, the bold decision to destroy Asgard – it felt like a necessary reset for the character’s story. We also meet some fantastic new faces like Valkyrie and the wonderfully eccentric Grandmaster, and the movie really opens up the scope of the Marvel universe. The film culminates with the surviving Asgardians heading off into the unknown depths of space, setting the stage for something huge to happen next.

‘Iron Man’ (2008)

While held captive, Tony Stark creates his first Iron Man suit, setting the stage for all future heroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The movie introduces key technologies like the arc reactor and repulsor rays, and establishes the idea of a hero openly revealing their identity. It also marks a turning point for Stark Industries, shifting its focus from weapons manufacturing to social responsibility. The film ends with a hint of a larger plan, foreshadowing the future direction of the entire Marvel universe.

‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ (2014)

In the film, Captain America discovers that the villainous organization Hydra has secretly taken over S.H.I.E.L.D., leading him to question their widespread monitoring programs. The story also introduces the new hero Falcon and updates how spy missions are carried out, focusing on more direct, on-the-ground combat. A program called Project Insight attempts to redefine security by predicting and stopping threats before they happen. Ultimately, S.H.I.E.L.D. is broken apart, significantly changing the landscape of intelligence agencies in future storylines.

‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ (2021)

A spell gone wrong causes visitors from other universes to appear, putting Peter Parker in a difficult position: keep his identity a secret or embrace his responsibility as Spider-Man. The movie cleverly brings together different versions of Spider-Man from past films while staying true to the rules of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It explores how different universes try to fix problems, and the impact those fixes have on people’s memories and sense of self. Ultimately, everything is reset, leaving Peter Parker unknown and free to start fresh.

‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019)

The remaining heroes travel back in time to undo Thanos’ snap. The movie establishes clear rules for alternate timelines, the limited supply of Pym Particles, and how the Infinity Stones work. It culminates in one last team battle that gives satisfying conclusions to several characters’ stories. Finally, the ending passes the torch to a new generation of heroes and officially concludes the story of the Infinity Saga.

‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018)

Thanos is on a quest to collect all six Infinity Stones, while Earth’s heroes scatter to fight him both on their planet and in outer space. The story showcases the incredible powers of the Stones during battles and how portals are used for travel. It combines Wakanda’s strong defenses with the massive scale of a cosmic war. Ultimately, the ending dramatically changes everything for the entire series.

Let us know your favorite and least favorite Marvel Cinematic Universe movies in the comments! Also, tell us if you think any of them are ranked too high or too low.

2025-11-09 04:19