The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films are superhero movies. They are produced by Marvel Studios. The characters appear in Marvel Comics publications. The MCU is the shared universe. All of the films are set in it.
Marvel Studios has produced and released 33 films. At least 11 more are in development. It is the highest-grossing film franchise ever. It has grossed over $29.8 billion globally. Avengers: Endgame was the highest-grossing film upon release.
Key Takeaways
- The MCU consists of 33 films released so far. At least 11 more are in development.1
- It is divided into phases: Phase One, Phase Two, Phase Three, and the current Phase Four.2
- Phases Five and Six will continue the Multiverse Saga.2
- It is the highest-grossing film franchise, generating over $29.8 billion globally.1
- Avengers: Endgame was the highest-grossing film upon release.
Introduction to the Marvel Cinematic Universe
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is a groundbreaking superhero film franchise. It has captivated audiences with interconnected stories and iconic characters. The MCU has achieved groundbreaking cinematic feats.
Led by Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige, the MCU began humbly. It released “Iron Man” in 2008. Since then, it has produced 33 films. At least 11 more are in development.
Overview of the Superhero Film Franchise
The Marvel Cinematic Universe is organized into distinct “Phases.” Each Phase comprises interconnected films contributing to narrative and character development. Phase One was from 2008 to 2012. Phase Two was from 2013 to 2015. Phase Three was from 2016 to 2019.
The MCU has now entered the Multiverse Saga. This new era began with Phase Four in 2021-2022. It will continue through Phases Five and Six.
The Significance of the Marvel Cinematic Universe
The Marvel Cinematic Universe has transformed superhero films. With a budget of $6.479 billion to $6.964 billion, it earned $29.827 billion. It’s the highest-grossing film franchise ever.
Beyond financial success, the MCU pioneered innovative storytelling. It integrated characters and narratives across films and TV series. This created an immersive cinematic experience for fans.
The MCU has diverse representation and seamless narrative integration. These aspects have garnered critical praise.
The Infinity Saga: Phase One to Phase Three
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films are organized into Phases.2 The Infinity Saga covers Phase One to Phase Three.2 These Phases span movies from 2008 to 2019.
Phase One: The Beginnings (2008-2012)
Phase One began with Iron Man in 2008.2 Paramount Pictures distributed Phase One films like Iron Man 2.2 The Avengers (2012) concluded this Phase.
Phase Two: Expanding the Universe (2013-2015)
After The Avengers’ success, Phase Two expanded the universe.2 It included 6 films from 2013 to 2015. Fan-favorites like Guardians of the Galaxy were released.
Phase Three: The Culmination (2016-2019)
Phase Three concluded the Infinity Saga from 2016-2019.2 It had 11 films like Captain America: Civil War. Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame capped this Phase.
The Infinity Saga’s Phases cemented MCU’s cultural impact.2 Its interconnected storytelling and iconic characters captivated worldwide audiences.1
How Many Marvel Movies Are There In Order?
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has grown significantly since 2008. There are 27 MCU movies and series from 2008 to 2027.2
Phase One had 6 movies. Phase Two had 6 movies. Phase Three consisted of 11 movies.2
Phase Four contains 5 movies. Phase Five is slated for 5 movies. Phase Six is scheduled for 5 movies.2
Chronological List of Marvel Films
To watch Marvel and Avengers movies chronologically, start with Captain America: The First Avenger (World War II). Next is Captain Marvel (1995).2
The timeline progresses through the MCU films. It concludes the first three phases with Avengers: Endgame, involving a five-year time jump.2
Significance of Viewing Order
Watching in chronological order provides deeper understanding of interconnected storylines and character development.3 Viewers fully appreciate the significance of key events, new heroes, and the overarching narrative.
Upcoming Marvel Movies in the Multiverse Saga
After the Infinity Saga concluded with Avengers: Endgame, Marvel Studios entered the Multiverse Saga.1 This new phase features diverse films like Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), Captain America: Brave New World (2025), The Fantastic Four (2025), Blade (2025), Avengers 5 (2026), and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027).1
The Multiverse Saga: Phase Four and Beyond
After Avengers: Endgame concluded the Infinity Saga, Marvel Studios entered a new era – the Multiverse Saga. This began with Phase Four.1 Phase Four of the Marvel Cinematic Universe kicked off in 2021 with Black Widow. It included seven films, eight TV series, and two Disney+ specials.1
Phase Four: Introducing the Multiverse (2021-2022)
The Marvel Cinematic Universe continued expanding with Phase Four. This phase introduced the multiverse concept – parallel dimensions with different character versions.1 Critically acclaimed films and shows like Shang-Chi, Loki, and Spider-Man: No Way Home explored the multiverse’s complexities.4
Phase Five: Exploring the Multiverse (2023-2024)
Phase Five will delve deeper into the multiverse’s impact on heroes and villains.4 Six films and seven Disney+ series are scheduled, continuing the multiverse exploration.1
Phase Six: The Culmination of the Multiverse Saga (2025-2027)
The Multiverse Saga will culminate in Phase Six with four films.1 After Phase Six, Phases One, Five, and Six will be collectively known as “The Multiverse Saga”. This phase promises an epic multiverse story conclusion, setting the stage for the MCU’s next chapter.4
| Phase | Years | Films | TV Series | Specials | Box Office Revenue | Total Runtime |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phase Four | 2021-2022 | 7 | 8 | 2 | $6.940 billion4 | 1,636 minutes4 |
| Phase Five | 2023-2024 | 6 | 7 | 0 | N/A | N/A |
| Phase Six | 2025-2027 | 4 | 0 | 0 | N/A | N/A |
Behind the Scenes of the Marvel Cinematic Universe
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has captured audiences’ imaginations worldwide.
It delivers interconnected superhero stories, becoming a cultural phenomenon.
At its core, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige drives its inception and success.2
Kevin Feige’s Vision and Direction
Feige’s unwavering vision shapes the MCU’s trajectory.
As the primary producer, he oversaw 23 Phase One to Three films.
He also supervised 6 Phase Four, 5 Phase Five, and 5 planned Phase Six films.2
Collaboration with Marvel Comics
Marvel Studios closely collaborates with Marvel Comics.
This synergy allows staying true to Marvel’s essence.
It introduces innovative adaptations, keeping the franchise engaging.1
The MCU’s journey from Iron Man to the Multiverse Saga showcases visionary leadership.
It highlights collaborative storytelling and Marvel’s enduring comic book legacy.1
Conclusion
The Marvel Cinematic Universe has become a global cultural phenomenon. It captivates audiences with interconnected stories, iconic characters, and groundbreaking filmmaking achievements.1 From Iron Man in 2008 to the current Multiverse Saga, the MCU spans 33 films. With at least 11 more in development, it continues to grow.1 This expansive universe has grossed an astonishing $29.827 billion globally, making it the highest-grossing film franchise ever.1
The MCU’s success showcases the power of collaborative storytelling and Marvel’s rich comic book legacy.5 With meticulous attention to detail and visionary leadership under Kevin Feige, the MCU seamlessly weaves together characters, timelines, and narratives.1 It sets new standards for cinematic excellence, captivating audiences worldwide.
As the Multiverse Saga unfolds with 14 films and TV series planned for Phase Five and beyond, fans worldwide eagerly anticipate the MCU’s future.1 The franchise’s impact resonates beyond the screen, transcending traditional superhero storytelling to become a cultural phenomenon. Its continued success and innovative approach to filmmaking attest to Marvel’s characters’ enduring power and the MCU’s creative vision.
FAQ
How many Marvel movies are there in order?
What is the chronological order of the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies?
Why is the viewing order important for the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies?
What is the Multiverse Saga, and how does it relate to the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe?
Source Links
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Marvel_Cinematic_Universe_films
- https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/guide/marvel-movies-in-order/
- https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/movies/g32492706/how-to-watch-marvel-movies-in-order/
- https://marvelcinematicuniverse.fandom.com/wiki/The_Multiverse_Saga
- https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/marvel-movies-timeline/