By most standards, sequels across countless franchises are usually inferior cash-grabs. However, the MCU cinematic experiment has forever popularized the practice of serialized, shared-universe storytelling. As a result, each sequel in the MCU is a crucial continuation of the Infinity Saga, rather than a cheesy cash-grab.
And although they aren’t without issues, many of the origin stories evolved through drastic creative transformation. The first Avengers film is a pseudo-sequel mash-up, but somewhat feels like a technicality. So, its own sequels will be included instead. Unique visions dominate the latter films, making them fascinating to review after the MCU’s years of success.
10 Ant-Man And The Wasp - 7.1
This piece of the Infinity Saga puzzle is a snug fit, as its plotting unfolds with distinct intent. It pursues Janet Van Dyne, and prioritizes the consequences of Captain America: Civil War. It even concludes with Ant-Man in position for the fight against Thanos. Ultimately, this is a lighthearted film that successfully continues the tone of the first. Yet it doubles down on everything, including strange recurring jokes and an onslaught of size-based humor. Naturally, this won’t please everyone. Some storylines are a little messy, and the corporate branding feels more evident. But it’s still an incredibly fun cast, working with a playful, well-paced script.
9 Iron Man 3 - 7.2
Iron Man’s preceding film was so terribly preoccupied with setup, that creative interference resulted in a jumbled mess. So, it’s somewhat miraculous that Shane Black managed to add so much flavor to this unique entry in the MCU. The film focuses on Tony Stark rather than Iron Man. It’s actually hinged on Tony’s psychological trauma, particularly from the alien invasion. Although Tony’s enemy is another remnant of his past vices, the movie still takes bold swings. Undermining the Mandarin was especially controversial. But Shane Black’s signature comedy primarily works, including Tony’s blunt dialogue with a kid. Surprisingly, this is more of a Shane Black film than an MCU film, which is definitely intriguing and fun.
8 Avengers: Age Of Ultron - 7.3
It’s always an impressive feat to juggle the escalating number of heroes in the MCU. However, it was an intriguing move to introduce an enemy that is directly caused by Tony Stark. Unfortunately, some of the drawbacks include a bloated runtime, messiness, and even the occasional juvenile humor.
And another sentient robot that’s determined to save Earth by destroying humanity is hardly interesting. But the expanding mythology and individual arcs are definitely appealing. Not to mention some exciting fan service, like the battle between Iron Man and the Hulk.
7 Spider-Man: Far From Home - 7.5
However, while trust and truth are interesting themes here, the film mainly explores Peter’s accumulated pressure after Iron Man’s death. It feels so fitting for Peter to confront a villain who would otherwise oppose Iron Man himself. But the changes in tone may not speak to everyone. Both the illusions and their actual puppet master are flamboyant and silly. And Homecoming’s sense of humor skewed younger, instead of the pre-teen comedy here. Still, the performances, pacing, and action remain top-notch for anyone to enjoy.
6 Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 - 7.6
Much like the entry preceding this, there is a slight transition towards more juvenile humor. And the plot utilizes Star Lord’s parental issues, yet again. But there is no denying the enormous sense of overall fun. The film plays like a greatest hits concert, with catchy visuals to match. Kurt Russell is a perfect addition to the crew, likable and full of gravitas. Enough to make a truly captivating villain, once the wandering plot finds its footing. He even allows Star Lord the closure of defeating the man who caused his mother’s illness. It’s an appropriate dramatic follow-up, that still features speedy entertainment and delightfully copious amounts of Baby Groot.
5 Captain America: The Winter Soldier - 7.7
This is a noticeably drastic change of pace from the first film. The MCU discovered the most successful method imaginable to incorporate Steve Rogers into the modern day. They essentially put him in a high-octane Jason Bourne plot, literally having Rogers on the run against a corrupted government agency, with spectacular hand-to-hand combat and shootouts to boot.
The espionage-thriller angle was truly a perfect fit. Every theme, motivation, and enemy is just as gripping as the grounded action sequences. It is a character-driven adventure with careful pacing, great humor, maturity, and mind-blowing stunts.
4 Captain America: Civil War - 7.8
An epic Avengers film, as viewed through Steve Rogers’ eyes. Continuing the tone established by Rogers’ last outing, the same hard-hitting action choreography and thematic maturity are exhilarating. Tony Stark’s guilt and thirst for vengeance are complicated by Rogers’ loyalty to his childhood friend. That would be enough conflict without the accords, which ultimately invite everyone else into the fray. True, battling friends results in withheld consequences. But the movie remains surprisingly intimate, allowing high investment while delivering unbelievable spectacle.
3 Thor: Ragnarok - 7.9
Yet another franchise that was absolutely turned on its head, Chris Hemsworth always had a grip on comedy. This time around, he was allowed the opportunity to flaunt it. It’s a complete reversal of the previous film, which aimed for a deliberately sober tone. Instead, it ended up rather dreary, and perpetuated MCU’s reputation for unsatisfying villains.
Director Taika Waititi gave Thor’s franchise a staggering course correction with outright comedy. It’s brilliant with slapstick gags and clever wit alike, but the subjectivity of humor won’t leave everyone pleased.
2 Avengers: Endgame - 8.4
A self-aware time travel film, this lengthy conclusion to a decade of blockbusters is all about resolution. Unexpectedly poignant, it methodically explores trauma, defeat, and death with a reserved tone and careful pacing. But there is plenty of charming humor nonetheless, and the assembly of heroes for the final war is staggering in scope. The few action scenes in this film are certainly thrilling. But ultimately, the plot prioritizes character-driven reflection. If permanent, it would have been a fitting bookend to the entire MCU. It is ambitious, funny, and inventive throughout, a satisfying experience for Marvel fans and casual viewers alike.
1 Avengers: Infinity War - 8.5
This film boils down to a simple race, but it’s driven by a Thanos origin story—which is absolutely compelling enough to fuel the runtime. Josh Brolin is a charismatic and menacing fit for the endlessly quotable Thanos, and his CGI is actually convincing enough. Best of all, Thanos’ motivations are clear. He is physically powerful, but his methods are both cruel and intelligent. His relationship with his daughters is fascinating, and his awful goals are actually understandable. This film is filled with non-stop action, jokes, and new character compositions that boast great chemistry. And the ending is a daring gut-punch that many wouldn’t have expected from Disney.
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