The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has become a cultural juggernaut since its inception in 2008 with “Iron Man.” After a decade-long buildup, “Avengers: Endgame” delivered a monumental conclusion to the Infinity Saga, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the future of the MCU. The landscape of the MCU post-“Endgame” has been meticulously planned, with new heroes emerging and beloved characters embarking on fresh journeys. This article explores the next movie following “Avengers: Endgame,” which marked the beginning of a new chapter in the Marvel saga.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe Post-Endgame
“Avengers: Endgame,” released in April 2019, was not just the culmination of the Infinity Saga but also a turning point for the MCU. It provided closure to several major character arcs, most notably those of Iron Man (Tony Stark) and Captain America (Steve Rogers). Their departures left significant voids in the MCU, both in terms of leadership and narrative drive. Marvel Studios faced the challenge of maintaining the momentum and crafting a cohesive new storyline to captivate audiences.
Spider-Man: Far From Home – The Immediate Follow-Up
The official next movie after “Avengers: Endgame” was “Spider-Man: Far From Home.”
Released in July 2019, just a few months after “Endgame,” “Spider-Man: Far From Home” served as both an epilogue to the Infinity Saga and a bridge to the future of the MCU. Directed by Jon Watts and starring Tom Holland as Peter Parker/Spider-Man, this film addressed the world post-Snap and post-Blip (the terms used in the MCU for the disappearance and reappearance of half the universe’s population).
“Spider-Man: Far From Home” explores Peter Parker’s struggle to return to a normal life following the loss of his mentor, Tony Stark. The film takes Peter and his classmates on a European vacation, which is promptly interrupted by Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) and the introduction of Quentin Beck/Mysterio (Jake Gyllenhaal). Beck initially presents himself as a hero from another dimension, though it is later revealed that he is a disgruntled former Stark Industries employee using advanced technology to fabricate threats and appear as a hero.
The film’s narrative dives into themes of legacy, responsibility, and deception. It also sets up significant plot points for the future of Spider-Man and the broader MCU. The mid-credits scene, revealing Peter’s secret identity to the world and framing him for Mysterio’s death, sets the stage for the next phase of Spider-Man’s journey.
Phase 4 and the Expansion of the MCU
With the conclusion of the Infinity Saga, the MCU entered Phase 4, a period marked by a diversification of stories and characters.
Phase 4 began officially with the Disney+ series “WandaVision,” released in January 2021. This series, along with others like “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” “Loki,” and “Hawkeye,” marked Marvel Studios’ expansion into television. These series allowed for deeper character development and exploration of storylines that would directly tie into the movies.
However, in terms of cinematic releases, the first new film in Phase 4 after “Spider-Man: Far From Home” was “Black Widow.”
Black Widow: A Journey into Natasha Romanoff’s Past
“Black Widow” was released in July 2021, providing a long-awaited solo outing for Scarlett Johansson’s Natasha Romanoff.
Set between the events of “Captain America: Civil War” and “Avengers: Infinity War,” “Black Widow” delves into Natasha’s past and her ties to the secretive Red Room program. The film introduces new characters, such as Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), who takes on the mantle of the Black Widow, Alexei Shostakov/Red Guardian (David Harbour), and Melina Vostokoff (Rachel Weisz).
“Black Widow” is significant for several reasons. It offers closure to Natasha Romanoff’s character, who sacrificed herself in “Endgame,” and sets up Yelena Belova as a key figure in the MCU moving forward. The post-credits scene of “Black Widow” ties directly into the events of the Disney+ series “Hawkeye,” further interweaving the film and television narratives of Phase 4.
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings: Introducing New Heroes
“Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” released in September 2021, marked the MCU’s first foray into martial arts and Asian culture.
Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and starring Simu Liu as Shang-Chi, the film introduces audiences to a new hero with deep roots in Marvel Comics. Shang-Chi’s story is one of family, heritage, and self-discovery. The film also redefines the Ten Rings organization, first introduced in “Iron Man.”
“Shang-Chi” is notable for its representation and cultural significance, as well as its spectacular action sequences. The film’s success opened the door for further exploration of diverse characters and stories within the MCU. It also integrated new mystical elements into the MCU, which would be further expanded in subsequent films.
Eternals: A Cosmic Expansion
Released in November 2021, “Eternals” directed by Chloé Zhao, represents one of the most ambitious projects in the MCU.
“Eternals” introduces a group of immortal beings who have lived on Earth for thousands of years, secretly guiding humanity and protecting it from the Deviants. The ensemble cast includes Gemma Chan as Sersi, Richard Madden as Ikaris, Angelina Jolie as Thena, and Salma Hayek as Ajak, among others.
The film delves into themes of immortality, human evolution, and the hidden history of the MCU. Its scope and scale are grand, offering a different kind of storytelling compared to previous Marvel films. Despite mixed critical reception, “Eternals” expands the cosmic lore of the MCU and sets up future storylines involving these powerful beings and their place in the universe.
See also: Iron Man’s Sacrifice in “Avengers: Endgame” Remains MCU’s Pivotal Moment
Spider-Man: No Way Home – A Multiversal Spectacle
One of the most highly anticipated films post-“Endgame” is “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” released in December 2021.
Directed by Jon Watts, this film continues the journey of Peter Parker as he grapples with the fallout from his identity being revealed. Seeking help from Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch), Peter inadvertently opens the multiverse, leading to encounters with villains from previous Spider-Man franchises.
“Spider-Man: No Way Home” is a landmark film for the MCU, integrating characters from past Spider-Man movies, including those played by Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield. The film’s exploration of the multiverse has significant implications for the MCU’s future, opening the door to limitless storytelling possibilities.
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness: Pushing Boundaries
Scheduled for release in May 2022, “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” is poised to further explore the consequences of the multiverse.
Directed by Sam Raimi, known for his work on the original “Spider-Man” trilogy, this film stars Benedict Cumberbatch as Doctor Strange and Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch. The events of “WandaVision” and “No Way Home” directly lead into this film.
“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” promises to be one of the most visually and narratively complex films in the MCU. It will delve into alternate realities, dark magic, and the consequences of tampering with the fabric of reality.
Thor: Love and Thunder – A New Era for the God of Thunder
“Thor: Love and Thunder,” set for release in July 2022, sees Taika Waititi returning to direct after the success of “Thor: Ragnarok.”
Chris Hemsworth reprises his role as Thor, joined by Natalie Portman as Jane Foster, who will wield Mjolnir and take on the mantle of Thor. The film also stars Tessa Thompson as Valkyrie and Christian Bale as the villain Gorr the God Butcher.
“Thor: Love and Thunder” is expected to blend humor, action, and emotion, continuing the rejuvenated tone established in “Ragnarok.” It also aims to further develop the cosmic side of the MCU and explore new mythological elements.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever – Honoring a Legacy
“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” scheduled for release in November 2022, faces the challenge of continuing the story without its beloved lead, Chadwick Boseman.
Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film aims to honor Boseman’s legacy while expanding the world of Wakanda. It will explore the nation’s future and introduce new characters, maintaining the cultural and political themes that made the first “Black Panther” a landmark film.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and Beyond
Looking further ahead, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” is set to release in 2023, with James Gunn returning to direct.
This film will continue the adventures of the eclectic spacefaring team, delving into Rocket’s backstory and further exploring the cosmic aspects of the MCU. Additionally, other projects like “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,” “Blade,” and new series on Disney+ will expand the MCU in diverse directions.
Conclusion
The MCU post-“Avengers: Endgame” has embarked on an ambitious journey, blending new characters, diverse narratives, and expansive world-building. “Spider-Man: Far From Home” served as the immediate follow-up, bridging the gap between the Infinity Saga and Phase 4. Subsequent films like “Black Widow,” “Shang-Chi,” “Eternals,” and “Spider-Man: No Way Home” have each contributed to shaping the future of the MCU.
With an exciting slate of upcoming films and series, Marvel Studios continues to innovate and captivate audiences worldwide. The next era of the MCU promises to be as thrilling and groundbreaking as the first, ensuring that the legacy of “Avengers: Endgame” lives on while new stories unfold.
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