The Marvel Movies (MCU) has taken the world by storm, captivating audiences with its incredible superheroes, thrilling storylines, and interconnected universe. With over a decade of cinematic excellence, it’s no wonder fans are eager to delve into the Marvel movies in the correct order. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the chronological order of the Marvel movies, allowing you to experience the full narrative as it unfolds. So, grab your favorite snack and settle in for an extraordinary cinematic journey filled with excitement and wonder!
The Infinity Saga: Phase One (2008-2012)
- Iron Man (May 2, 2008)
- The Incredible Hulk (June 13, 2008)
- Iron Man 2 (May 7, 2010)
- Thor (May 6, 2011)
- Captain America: The First Avenger (July 22, 2011)
- Marvel’s The First Avengers (May 4, 2012)
Phase Two Marvel Movies (2013-2015)
- Iron Man 3 (May 3, 2013)
- Thor: The Dark World (November 8, 2013)
- Captain America: The Winter Soldier (April 4, 2014)
- Guardians of the Galaxy (August 1, 2014)
- Avengers: Age of Ultron (May 1, 2015)
- Ant-Man (July 17, 2015)
Phase Three Marvel Movies (2016-2019)
- Captain America: Civil War (May 6, 2016)
- Doctor Strange (November 4, 2016)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (May 5, 2017)
- Spider-Man: Homecoming (July 7, 2017)
- Thor: Ragnarok (November 3, 2017)
- Black Panther (February 16, 2018)
- Avengers: Infinity War (April 27, 2018)
- Ant-Man and the Wasp (July 6, 2018)
- Captain Marvel (March 8, 2019)
- Avengers: Endgame (April 26, 2019)
- Spider-Man: Far From Home (July 2, 2019)
The Multiverse Saga: Phase Four (2021-2022)
- Black Widow (July 9, 2021)
- Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (September 3, 2021)
- Eternals (November 5, 2021)
- Spider-Man: No Way Home (December 17, 2021)
- Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (May 6, 2021)
- Thor: Love and Thunder (July 8, 2022)
- Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (November 11, 2022)
Phase Five (2023-2024)
- Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantomania (February 17, 2023)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (May 5, 2023)
- The Marvels (November 11, 2023)
- Captain America: New World Order (May 3, 2024)
- Thunderbolts (July 26, 2024)
- Blade (September 6, 2024)
Phase Six (2024-2026)
- Deadpool 3 (November 8, 2024)
- Fantastic Four (February 14, 2025)
- Avengers: The Kang Dynasty (May 2, 2025)
- Avengers: Secret Wars (May 1, 2026)
The Marvel movies, when watched in chronological order, take audiences on a thrilling and interconnected adventure through the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Beginning with “Captain America: The First Avenger” set in World War II, the journey continues with “Captain Marvel” and the origins of powerful heroes. The story unfolds with the emergence of Iron Man, the Hulk, Thor, and the formation of the Avengers in “The Avengers.” As the MCU expands, we witness the cosmic adventures of the Guardians of the Galaxy, the political conflicts in “Captain America: Civil War,” and the introduction of new heroes like Black Panther and Spider-Man. The saga reaches its climax with the devastating events of “Avengers: Infinity War” and the epic conclusion in “Avengers: Endgame.” This chronological viewing experience provides a comprehensive and immersive understanding of the interconnected universe, allowing fans to witness the growth of beloved characters, explore different realms, and experience the ultimate battles between good and evil.
MARVEL MOVIES AND SHOWS IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER
CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER (2011)
Critics Consensus: With its abundance of thrilling action, nostalgic charm, and stellar performances, Captain America delivers a satisfyingly classic blockbuster experience.
Starring: Chris Evans, Hayley Atwell, Sebastian Stan, Tommy Lee Jones
Directed By: Joe Johnston
CAPTAIN MARVEL (2019)
Critics Consensus: Captain Marvel (2019) soars as a thrilling addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Brie Larson shines as the powerful Carol Danvers, supported by impressive visuals and a solid blend of action and humor. With its empowering story, this film delivers an entertaining and inspiring superhero adventure.
Starring: Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Mendelsohn, Djimon Hounsou
Directed By: Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck
Critics Consensus: Iron Man (2008) kicks off the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a bang. Robert Downey Jr.’s charismatic portrayal of Tony Stark, combined with smart writing and exhilarating action sequences, makes this superhero origin story a resounding success. With its wit, visual effects, and strong storytelling, Iron Man sets a high standard for the franchise.
Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Terrence Howard, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jeff Bridges
Directed By: Jon Favreau
MARVEL ONE-SHOT: AGENT CARTER (2013)
Critics Consensus: No consensus yet.
Starring: Hayley Atwell, Bradley Whitford, Tim Trobec, Shane Black
Directed By: Louis D’Esposito
IRON MAN 2 (2010)
Critics Consensus: “Iron Man 2 (2010) struggles to live up to its predecessor, despite Robert Downey Jr.’s charismatic performance. While it offers impressive visuals and action, the story feels cluttered, resulting in a somewhat disappointing sequel that falls short of the original’s greatness.”
Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Scarlett Johansson
Directed By: Jon Favreau
IRON MAN 2 (2010)
Critics Consensus: “Iron Man 2 (2010) struggles to live up to its predecessor, despite Robert Downey Jr.’s charismatic performance. While it offers impressive visuals and action, the story feels cluttered, resulting in a somewhat disappointing sequel that falls short of the original’s greatness.”
Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Scarlett Johansson
Directed By: Jon Favreau
MARVEL ONE-SHOT: A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THOR'S HAMMER (2011)
Critics Consensus: No consensus yet.
Starring: Clark Gregg, Jessica Manuel, Jeff Prewett, Zach Hudson
Directed By: Leythum
THE INCREDIBLE HULK (2008)
Critics Consensus: “The Incredible Hulk (2008) delivers a thrilling and action-packed superhero experience. While it may not reach the heights of the best Marvel films, it benefits from strong performances, impressive visual effects, and intense sequences that make it an enjoyable entry in the franchise.”
Starring: Ed Norton, Liv Tyler, Tim Roth, William Hurt
Directed By: Louis Leterrier
THOR (2011)
Critics Consensus: Thor (2011) brings the Norse god to life in a visually stunning adventure. While it may not delve deeply into character development, it compensates with epic action, humor, and Chris Hemsworth’s charismatic performance. With its mythical world-building, Thor is a solid addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Anthony Hopkins, Tom Hiddleston
Directed By: Kenneth Branagh
MARVEL ONE-SHOT: THE CONSULTANT (2011)
Critics Consensus: No consensus yet.
Starring: Clark Gregg, Maximiliano Hernandez, Deborah Knox, Robert Downey Jr.
Directed By: Leythum
MARVEL'S THE AVENGERS (2012)
Critics Consensus: Thanks to a script that prioritizes the humanity of its heroes and an abundance of breathtaking superpowered sequences, The Avengers not only lives up to its monumental hype but also sets a new benchmark for Marvel films. This cinematic masterpiece raises the bar, showcasing the unparalleled excellence that the Marvel universe brings to the big screen.
Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth
Directed By: Joss Whedon
ITEM 47 (2012)
Critics Consensus: No consensus yet.
Starring: Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Bradford, Maximiliano Hernandez, Titus Welliver
Directed By: Louis D’Esposito
THOR: THE DARK WORLD (2013)
Critics Consensus: While not the pinnacle of Marvel’s cinematic achievements, Thor: The Dark World still delivers the expected blend of humor and high-stakes action that fans anticipate. This film may not reach the same heights as others in the Marvel Universe, but it remains an entertaining entry that offers plenty of the elements that make the franchise beloved.
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Stellan Skarsgård
Directed By: Alan Taylor
IRON MAN 3 (2013)
Critics Consensus: Iron Man 3, supported by a charismatic lead, exhilarating action sequences, and unexpected twists, proves to be a witty and entertaining adventure. This film stands as a commendable addition to the Marvel canon, blending humor and excitement seamlessly. With its strong storytelling and engaging performances, Iron Man 3 solidifies its place as a notable entry in the franchise.
Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Guy Pearce
Directed By: Shane Black
CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER (2014)
Critics Consensus: Captain America: The Winter Soldier captivates with its suspenseful narrative and astute political undertones. This exceptional addition to the Avengers canon is sure to exhilarate Marvel enthusiasts, delivering a thrilling cinematic experience. With its superior storytelling and intricate themes, Captain America: The Winter Soldier stands as a remarkable achievement that will leave a lasting impact on audiences.
Starring: Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Samuel L. Jackson, Sebastian Stan
Directed By: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY (2014)
Critics Consensus: Guardians of the Galaxy lives up to the expectations of fans of the delightfully eccentric Marvel comics, offering irreverence, humor, thrilling moments, heartfelt storytelling, and visually stunning scenes. This film captures the essence of the source material, delivering a captivating and entertaining cinematic experience that leaves audiences in awe.
Starring: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel
Directed By: James Gunn
I AM GROOT (2022)
Starring: Vin Diesel
Directed By: Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2 (2017)
Critics Consensus: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 combines an action-packed plot, dazzling visuals, and irreverent humor to deliver a sequel that is nearly as enjoyable, albeit not as refreshingly groundbreaking, as its predecessor. This film retains the fun and charm of the original, offering a visually stunning and entertaining experience that will please fans of the franchise.
Starring: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Bradley Cooper, Dave Bautista
Directed By: James Gunn
AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON (2015)
Critics Consensus: Avengers: Age of Ultron bursts with exuberance and visually stunning spectacle, serving as an occasionally overstuffed yet largely satisfying sequel. It brings back the unwieldy cast from its predecessor, introducing new additions and a formidable antagonist. This film successfully captures the spirit of the Avengers, delivering a thrilling and immersive experience that will captivate audiences.
Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Evans
Directed By: Joss Whedon
ANT-MAN (2015)
Critics Consensus: With a charismatic performance by Paul Rudd at its helm, Ant-Man delivers Marvel thrills on a more intimate scale, even though it may not achieve the same seamless execution as some of its highly acclaimed predecessors. This film showcases the charm and excitement that the Marvel universe is known for, offering an enjoyable experience that may not reach the pinnacle of perfection but still leaves a lasting impression.
Starring: Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas, Evangeline Lilly, Corey Stoll
Directed By: Peyton Reed
CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR (2016)
Critics Consensus: Captain America: Civil War kickstarts the next chapter of Marvel films with a thrilling superhero blockbuster that not only delivers high-octane action but also dives deep into a mature and thought-provoking narrative. This film courageously tackles complex themes while maintaining a grounded and realistic approach, offering audiences a captivating cinematic experience. With its non-cartoonish plot, Captain America: Civil War sets a new standard for superhero storytelling and leaves a lasting impact.
Starring: Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan
Directed By: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
BLACK WIDOW (2021)
Critics Consensus: While Black Widow’s profound themes may be overshadowed by the action, it nonetheless delivers a thoroughly enjoyable standalone adventure. This film excels in providing solid entertainment, bolstered by an exceptional supporting cast that adds depth to the story. Though the action takes center stage, Black Widow remains a satisfying and engaging cinematic experience.
Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Florence Pugh, David Harbour, Rachel Weisz
Directed By: Cate Shortland
BLACK PANTHER (2018)
Critics Consensus: Black Panther propels superhero cinema to exhilarating new heights, delivering an engrossing narrative that ranks among the MCU’s finest. This groundbreaking film not only introduces a captivating story but also introduces a cast of characters that are exceptionally well-developed and richly realized. With its remarkable achievements, Black Panther stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in the superhero genre and leaves an indelible impact on audiences.
Starring: Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira
Directed By: Ryan Coogler
SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING (2017)
Critics Consensus: Spider-Man: Homecoming effortlessly accomplishes what a second reboot can, presenting a vibrant and enjoyable adventure that seamlessly integrates into the vast MCU. It strikes the perfect balance, offering a colorful and fun experience without being burdened by the task of setting up future franchise installments. This film comfortably finds its place within the larger universe, providing a delightful standalone story for fans to relish.
Starring: Tom Holland, Michael Keaton, Robert Downey Jr., Marisa Tomei
Directed By: Jon Watts
DOCTOR STRANGE (2016)
Critics Consensus: Doctor Strange skillfully navigates the unconventional source material while striking a harmonious balance with the blockbuster expectations of the MCU. This film artfully combines elements of mysticism and spectacle, delivering a captivating superhero origin story that is both entertaining and satisfying. With its unique blend of visuals and storytelling, Doctor Strange offers an impressive cinematic experience that leaves audiences thoroughly engaged.
Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams, Benedict Wong
Directed By: Scott Derrickson
THOR: RAGNAROK (2017)
Critics Consensus: Thor: Ragnarok bursts with excitement, humor, and most importantly, pure fun. This vibrant cosmic odyssey not only raises the bar for its franchise but also sets a new standard for the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe. With its colorful visuals and exhilarating adventure, this film showcases the absolute best of what the MCU has to offer, leaving audiences thoroughly entertained and captivated.
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Cate Blanchett, Idris Elba
Directed By: Taika Waititi
ANT-MAN AND THE WASP (2018)
Critics Consensus: Ant-Man and The Wasp, buoyed by the effortless charisma of Paul Rudd and Evangeline Lilly, brings a refreshing and vibrant energy to the superhero genre. This film serves as a revitalizing palate cleanser within the MCU, delivering a lighter and more uplifting experience. With its engaging performances and enjoyable storytelling, it offers a much-needed breather that leaves audiences invigorated.
Starring: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Douglas, Michael Peña
Directed By: Peyton Reed
AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR (2018)
Critics Consensus: Avengers: Infinity War skillfully manages a vast ensemble of MCU heroes as they confront their most formidable adversary to date. The outcome is a breathtaking and emotionally impactful blockbuster that successfully captures the grand scale of its ambitions, with only minor shortcomings. This thrilling cinematic experience resonates deeply, showcasing the immense talent and excitement the Marvel universe has to offer.
Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Josh Brolin, Chadwick Boseman
Directed By: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
AVENGERS: ENDGAME (2019)
Critics Consensus: Avengers: Endgame masterfully combines excitement, entertainment, and emotional depth, going to great lengths to provide a gratifying conclusion to Marvel’s monumental Infinity Saga. With its captivating storytelling and impactful moments, this film spares no effort in delivering a truly satisfying finale that leaves a lasting impact on audiences.
Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth
Directed By: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo
SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME (2019)
Critics Consensus: No Way Home, a sequel to Spider-Man, emerges as a larger and more daring installment, expanding the franchise’s scope and raising the stakes. Yet, amidst the heightened action, it retains the film’s signature humor and heartfelt moments, ensuring that the essence of the beloved superhero is not lost. This thrilling adventure successfully balances grandeur with the charm that fans adore.
Starring: Tom Holland, Samuel L. Jackson, Jake Gyllenhaal, Marisa Tomei
Directed By: Jon Watts
SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME (2021)
Critics Consensus: No Way Home, a sequel to Spider-Man, emerges as a larger and more daring installment, expanding the franchise’s scope and raising the stakes. Yet, amidst the heightened action, it retains the film’s signature humor and heartfelt moments, ensuring that the essence of the beloved superhero is not lost. This thrilling adventure successfully balances grandeur with the charm that fans adore.
Starring: Tom Holland, Zendaya, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jacob Batalon
Directed By: Jon Watts
LOKI (2021)
Starring: Tom Hiddleston, Sophia Di Martino, Owen Wilson, Gugu Mbatha-Raw
Directed By: Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Stephen Broussard
WHAT IF...? (2021)
Starring: Jeffrey Wright
Directed By: Bryan Andrews, Brad Winderbaum, A.C. Bradley, Kevin Feige
WANDAVISION (2021)
Starring: Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Bettany, Teyonah Parris, Kathryn Hahn
Directed By: Jac Schaeffer, Kevin Feige
THE FALCON AND THE WINTER SOLDIER (2021)
Starring: Anthony Mackie, Sebastian Stan, Daniel Brühl, Emily VanCamp
Directed By: Kari Skogland
SHANG-CHI AND THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS (2021)
Critics Consensus: Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings adheres to some of Marvel’s familiar formula, yet this thrilling origin tale goes beyond expectations, expanding the MCU in multiple compelling ways. With its captivating storyline and exciting action, this film breathes fresh life into the universe, offering an enriching and exhilarating cinematic experience.
Starring: Simu Liu, Awkwafina, Meng’er Zhang, Fala Chen
Directed By: Destin Daniel Cretton
ETERNALS (2021)
Critics Consensus: Eternals, an audacious superhero saga, reaches great heights while occasionally grappling with its own ambitions. This MCU entry ventures into intriguing and sometimes bewildering new territories, offering a fresh direction for the franchise. With its moments of brilliance and occasional challenges, Eternals captivates audiences with its boldness and opens up exciting possibilities.
Starring: Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek, Christopher Catesby Harington, Gemma Chan
Directed By: Chloé Zhao
HAWKEYE (2021)
Starring: Jeremy Renner, Hailee Steinfeld, Vera Farmiga, Florence Pugh
Directed By: Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Trinh Tran
MOON KNIGHT (2022)
Starring: Oscar Isaac, May Calamawy, Ethan Hawke, Gaspard Ulliel
Directed By: Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum
BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER (2022)
Critics Consensus: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever serves as a heartfelt homage while effectively propelling the franchise forward. With its ambitious storytelling and emotionally resonant moments, this film stands as a triumphant achievement for the MCU, offering a satisfying and rewarding experience that honors the legacy of the original while paving the way for new narratives.
Starring: Letitia Wright, Angela Bassett, Lupita Nyong’o, Tenoch Huerta
Directed By: Ryan Coogler
SHE-HULK: ATTORNEY AT LAW (2022)
Starring: Tatiana Maslany, Mark Ruffalo, Tim Roth, Benedict Wong
Directed By: Jessica Gao, Kat Coiro, Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito
MS. MARVEL (2022)
Starring: Iman Vellani, Aramis Knight, Saagar Shaikh, Rish Shah
Directed By: Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Bisha K. Ali
THOR: LOVE AND THUNDER (2022)
Critics Consensus: In certain aspects, Thor: Love and Thunder may evoke echoes of Ragnarok. However, it ultimately delivers an abundance of fast-paced excitement, making it a worthwhile and valuable addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With its enjoyable and energetic nature, this installment guarantees a thrilling and entertaining experience for fans.
Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Christian Bale, Tessa Thompson
Directed By: Taika Waititi
DOCTOR STRANGE IN THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS (2022)
Critics Consensus: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness grapples with the expansive nature of the MCU, yet Sam Raimi’s distinct directorial style weaves an enchanting web of entertainment. While the film may carry the burden of a vast universe, Raimi’s creative vision conjures a captivating spell that keeps audiences engaged and enthralled.
Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams
Directed By: Sam Raimi
WEREWOLF BY NIGHT (2022)
Critics Consensus: A haunting tale woven with precise storytelling, Werewolf by Night stands out as a remarkable addition to the Marvel universe. Michael Giacchino, known for his exceptional compositions, showcases his equally impressive directorial skills, creating an atmospheric experience. This unique Marvel entry proves Giacchino’s prowess extends beyond music, solidifying him as a talented and atmospheric filmmaker.
Starring: Gael García Bernal, Laura Donnelly, Harriet Sansom Harris
Directed By: Michael Giacchino
THE GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY HOLIDAY SPECIAL (2022)
Critics Consensus: More akin to a small holiday treat rather than a comprehensive gift, this festive adventure serves as a delightful platform for Drax, Mantis, and a highly enthusiastic Kevin Bacon. While it may not be a complete package, the yuletide excursion offers a charming experience that highlights these characters’ talents and adds a touch of joy to the festivities.
Starring: Chris Pratt, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, Zoe Saldana
Directed By: James Gunn
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3 (2023)
Critics Consensus: A cosmic embrace that tugs on the heartstrings, the ultimate Guardians of the Galaxy installment serves as a heartfelt farewell to the MCU’s beloved misfit family. While it may occasionally tug a bit tightly on the emotions, this concluding chapter showcases the utmost love and affection, offering a fitting and affectionate sendoff to this ragtag galactic institution.
Starring: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan
Directed By: James Gunn
ANT-MAN AND THE WASP: QUANTUMANIA (2023)
Critics Consensus: Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania basically lacks the spark of a laugh that elevated in advance adventures, however Jonathan Majors’ Kang is a thrilling villain poised to modify the path of the MCU.
Starring: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Jonathan Majors, Bill Murray
Directed By: Peyton Reed
