With the release of over two dozen movies and TV shows in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) over the past decade, it’s no surprise that some fans may feel overwhelmed or uncertain about where to start or how to keep up. As a result, a common question that arises is, “What Marvel movies can I skip?”
The answer to this question is not straightforward. It depends on individual preferences and priorities. If you’re someone who wants to experience the full breadth of the MCU, then there are no movies that you can afford to skip. Every film and TV show has a role to play in the larger narrative, and characters and storylines are interconnected across multiple titles.
However, not everyone has the time or inclination to invest in every MCU title, especially those who are new to the franchise. For those individuals, there are a few options to consider.
One approach is to focus on the most essential movies and TV shows, the ones that are central to the overarching storyline of the MCU. These are the titles that introduce key characters and events that shape the larger narrative. Some of the most important films include “Iron Man” (2008), which kicked off the entire franchise, “The Avengers” (2012), which brought together the core group of heroes, “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” (2014), which introduced important themes and characters that carry through subsequent films, and “Avengers: Infinity War” (2018), which sets up the dramatic conclusion of the Infinity Saga.
Other movies and TV shows that are essential to understanding the MCU include “Guardians of the Galaxy” (2014), “Thor: Ragnarok” (2017), “Spider-Man: Homecoming” (2017), “Black Panther” (2018), and “Doctor Strange” (2016). These titles introduce important characters, plotlines, and themes that are referenced and built upon in later films.
Another approach is to prioritize the movies and TV shows that feature your favorite characters or storylines. If you’re a fan of the Avengers, for example, you may want to focus on the films that feature them prominently, such as “Avengers: Age of Ultron” (2015) or “Avengers: Endgame” (2019). If you’re a fan of Spider-Man, you might prioritize the “Spider-Man” movies or the TV show “Marvel’s Spider-Man.”
It’s worth noting that even if you skip certain movies or TV shows, you may miss out on important references or plot points. For example, if you skip “Captain America: The First Avenger” (2011), you may not fully understand the significance of certain character relationships and storylines in later films. Similarly, if you skip “Thor: The Dark World” (2013), you may miss out on important context for the character of Loki.
In the end, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which Marvel movies to skip. It depends on your individual priorities and preferences. If you’re new to the franchise, it may be worth starting with the most essential titles and then branching out from there. If you’re a long-time fan, you may want to prioritize your favorite characters and storylines. Whatever approach you take, the MCU offers a rich and rewarding universe to explore, with something for every kind of fan.