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#33 - The Eternals
Honestly, we think this movie deserves better than being at the bottom of the list. While it left us feeling underwhelmed when we left the theater, it was visually impressive, boasted an incredible cast, and featured one of the most memorable portrayals of a speedster in film history. However, the verdict of the internet has been cast.
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#32 - Thor Love and Thunder
What went wrong, Taika? After the triumph of Thor Ragnarok, we were handed... this. In our eyes, it rightfully sits at the bottom. The humor missed the mark, the narrative was scattered, the characters grated on our nerves—particularly the God of Thunder—and the special effects were lackluster, to say the least.
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#31 - The Marvels
Similar to the Eternals, this movie should rank slightly higher, though not by a significant margin. The concept of bringing together all three "Marvels" was promising, but the final product turned out to be rather dull. In our view, Iman Vellani is the saving grace of this film, preventing it from being a complete bore. The villain was lackluster, and as for that bizarre musical number, let's not even go there.
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#30 - Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania
This movie was simply terrible, and we're not even going to apologize for saying it. Everything about it missed the mark. The plot was absurd, the humor fell flat, the performances felt disconnected as if everyone was acting in a green void, the special effects were subpar, and the villain—oh, the villain! They hyped up Kang only for him to monologue throughout the entire film and then be defeated by a few ants. Ant-Man movies should be small in scale, no pun intended, and this one just didn't understand that.
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#29 - Thor: The Dark World
This marks the transition from the "Bad Film" section to the "Actually Okay and Didn't Deserve All the Hate" tier of the MCU. Was this movie a masterpiece? No. But was it a disaster like Thor: Love and Thunder? Definitely not. It was enjoyable, had some strong character moments, and more Loki screen time, which is always a plus. It's time to acknowledge that this movie was decent!
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#28 - Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
This movie isn't bad; in fact, at times it's quite good, but it doesn't come close to the original Black Panther. Letitia Wright had big (and silent) shoes to fill, and she did so with grace and respect. The film felt like a heartfelt farewell to the late, great Chadwick Boseman, and we were all for it. However, as a movie, it lacked the thrill and excitement that the MCU is known for.
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#27 - The Incredible Hulk
The black sheep of the MCU, this movie is often left out of the conversation (you can't even find it on Disney+). It featured a different actor, a different studio, and a different vibe compared to the rest of the MCU. At times, it feels like a relic from the "Previous Age" of superhero movies (you know, the really bad ones), but overall, it's a solid, fun superhero film (and SO MUCH better than Ang Lee's Hulk movie).
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#26 - Captain Marvel
This movie emerged unexpectedly and was a massive success, grossing over a billion dollars. Sandwiched between "Infinity War" and "Endgame," it features arguably the strongest character in the MCU (although we'd personally bet on Wanda). "Captain Marvel" offers a fresh take on the origin story movie, and while it may not be our personal favorite, it's always an enjoyable watch.
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#25 - Iron Man 2
Iron Man 2, the follow-up to the movie that kickstarted the MCU, had big shoes to fill. While it didn't quite soar to the same heights as its predecessor, it still delivered a solid superhero experience. The film dives deeper into Tony Stark's world, expanding on his character and introducing new allies and adversaries. With its high-octane action scenes and Robert Downey Jr.'s charismatic performance, Iron Man 2 is a fun ride.
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#24 - Iron Man 3
Say what you will, we love this movie. With Shane Black at the helm, the movie takes on a more personal tone, blending high-stakes action with lots of humor. Despite some divisive plot twists (Ehem, The Mandarin), Iron Man 3 stands out for its character development and dynamic action sequences. It's a fitting conclusion to the Iron Man trilogy, showcasing the evolution of one of the MCU's most iconic heroes. Great third act!
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#23 - Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness was a wild, reality-bending ride that we absolutely loved. Directed by Sam Raimi, the film took a darker, more horror-inspired turn, showcasing Doctor Strange's powers in all their mystical glory. Elizabeth Olsen's Scarlett Witch was terrifying in all the right ways.
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#22 - Thor
We like this movie! ANOTHER!
As one of the first-phase MCU movies, it had its moments of tonal uncertainty, but overall, it was a delightful film that played a big role in expanding the MCU beyond Earth. The chemistry between Chris Hemsworth and Natalie Portman was undeniable, and it gave us the unforgettable introduction to Loki! However, those Dutch angles were... something else.
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#21 - Black Widow
We were a bit surprised to see Black Widow ranking so high on the list, as it didn't quite hit the mark for us. Don't get us wrong, Black Widow is one of our favorite characters, but the movie itself fell short of our expectations. Releasing it after Endgame was a puzzling choice. That being said, Florence Pugh was an absolute delight, and we can never get enough of Scarlett Johansson's portrayal of the iconic character.
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#20 - Ant Man and the Wasp
Ant-Man and the Wasp was a light-hearted and enjoyable follow-up in the MCU. It brought a much-needed dose of humor and fun after the intensity of Infinity War. The dynamic between Paul Rudd's Ant-Man and Evangeline Lilly's Wasp was fantastic, offering a perfect blend of action and comedy. The movie also delved deeper into the Quantum Realm, setting up important plot points for the future of the MCU. While it may not be the most groundbreaking film in the series, it was certainly an entertaining ride that left us smiling.
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#19 - Avengers: Age of Ultron
Age of Ultron often gets a bad rap, but upon a recent rewatch, we were reminded of just how good it really is! With a solid storyline and a formidable villain in Ultron, it's perplexing why it gets so much flak. The introduction of Wanda and Vision was a highlight, and it laid crucial groundwork for the Infinity Saga. Plus, the action scenes are top-notch. Seriously, give it another watch – it's a standout superhero film that deserves more appreciation.
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#18 - Shang-Chi
Shang-Chi masterfully combines Kung Fu and superhero elements in an epic showcase. The film truly shines when it listens to its stunt coordinator, unleashing some of the most impressive hand-to-hand combat sequences in recent memory. From the graceful "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" style to full-on Jackie Chan-inspired action, it's a feast for martial arts fans. It's just a shame that the climax resorts to a less inspired CGI battle with giant dragons, which doesn't quite live up to the thrilling buildup.
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#17 - Spider-Man: Far From Home
Following the events of Endgame, Peter Parker is grappling with the loss of his mentor and the pressure of stepping up as a hero. The film strikes a perfect balance between high school drama, budding romance, and superhero action. Jake Gyllenhaal's portrayal of Mysterio is a standout, adding depth and intrigue to the story. With stunning visual effects and a gripping plot, Far From Home is a worthy addition to the Spider-Man saga and the MCU.
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#16 - Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
Who would have thought that a band of misfits including a walking tree and a talking raccoon would become such a hit? Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 proved to be another heartfelt space adventure, brimming with humor, action, and Peter Quill's relatable daddy issues. It's an absolute blast of a movie that solidified the Guardians' place in the hearts of fans and the larger MCU.
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#15 - Black Panther
Unlike many MCU movies, Black Panther felt like a cultural milestone. It transcended the typical superhero formula with its compelling narrative, dynamic action, and deeper message. It resonated with audiences worldwide, grossing over a billion dollars at the box office and solidifying Black Panther as a prominent figure in Black culture. This film was more than entertainment; it was a powerful statement.
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#14 - Ant-Man
Ant-Man, the little movie that could, overcame numerous production hurdles, including a complete script rewrite and a change in directors. Despite these challenges, it turned out to be an incredibly enjoyable film. Paul Rudd was the perfect fit for the goofy and lovable Scott Lang we all hoped for. It may be a smaller movie in the MCU, but it has a giant heart, and we absolutely love it. Whazzzaahhp!
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#13 - Captain America: The First Avenger
Captain America: The First Avenger is an outstanding film that seamlessly combines modern superhero flair with a nostalgic, over-the-top old-school vibe. Steve Rogers is the quintessential underdog-turned-hero, and Chris Evans portrays both versions of him with absolute perfection. Hayley Atwell as Peggy Carter is stunning, capturing hearts with her strength and beauty. This film also introduces us to Sebastian Stan's Bucky Barnes, adding another layer of depth to the story. We absolutely love it!
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#12 - Doctor Strange
Benedict Cumberbatch as Doctor Strange was a stroke of casting genius! He embodies the arrogant yet brilliant character to perfection. While the movie follows a somewhat formulaic origin story path, it works wonderfully. The cast is fantastic, the story is engaging, and the visual effects are among the best in the genre. It's a mind-bending experience, exactly what a Doctor Strange movie should be.
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#11 - Spider-Man: Homecoming
Mixing a Spider-Man movie with a John Hughes-style teen comedy? That's a brilliant idea! After everyone fell in love with Tom Holland's brief appearance as Peter Parker in "Civil War," he finally gets to shine in his own movie, and it's an absolute blast. "Spider-Man: Homecoming" boasts a great story, a fantastic cast, thrilling action, and even more Tony Stark. What's not to love? And let's not forget Michael Keaton's incredible performance as the Vulture. This movie is a winner all around!
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#10 - Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 was an emotional rollercoaster and a fitting conclusion to the Guardians' saga. This movie had us laughing, but it mostly tugged at our heartstrings. Rocket's story was particularly heart-wrenching, Peter's journey came to a satisfying conclusion, and even Nebula and Drax received well-rounded story arcs. (Gamora is happy too) Plus, the movie features one of the most incredible one-shot sequences in cinematic history (you know the one). It's a remarkable film from start to finish.
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#9 - Spider-Man: No Way Home
Spider-Man: No Way Home was an absolute game-changer in the Spider-Man saga and the MCU. This film took us on an emotional and thrilling ride, weaving together multiple universes and bringing back familiar faces from past Spider-Man franchises. Tom Holland delivered a powerful performance, showcasing Peter Parker's growth and resilience. The return of villains like Doc Ock and Green Goblin added depth and nostalgia, while the camaraderie between the three Spider-Men was both heartwarming and hilarious. It was a spectacular blend of action, humor, and heart, making it a standout addition to the Spider-Man legacy.
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#8 - The Guardians of the Galaxy
Guardians of the Galaxy was a game-changer for the MCU. It proved that Marvel could take a relatively unknown group of characters and turn them into a beloved franchise. This movie ventured into the vastness of outer space and the depths of inner emotions, delivering a perfect blend of humor, action, and heart. With its memorable characters and stunning visuals, Guardians of the Galaxy was an absolute blast and a pivotal moment in the MCU's expansion. And that soundtrack? Are you kidding us?!
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#7 - Thor Ragnarok
Thor: Ragnarok was a vibrant burst of color, humor, action, and creativity. It completely redefined Thor's character and the direction of his movies. Cate Blanchett had a blast as Hela, bringing a deliciously evil energy to the screen. The dynamic between Thor and Hulk was pure gold, and Tessa Thompson shone as Valkyrie. We got even more Loki, which is always a treat, and as the cherry on top, we were graced with some sweet, sweet Goldblum. This movie absolutely rocks!
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#6 - Iron Man
What can we say? The fact that this movie still holds up just as well as it did when it first premiered in 2008 speaks volumes. Robert Downey Jr. was born to play Tony Stark, and his chemistry with Gwyneth Paltrow's Pepper Potts is electric. The movie is fast-paced, fun, witty, and action-packed, delivering pure joy from start to finish. Iron Man set the tone for the entire MCU franchise, and it's a testament to its quality that it remains a fan favorite to this day.
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#5 - Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Captain America: The Winter Soldier is a standout entry in the MCU that masterfully blends superhero action with the intrigue of a political thriller. This film elevated the character of Steve Rogers, showcasing his unwavering moral compass in a complex modern world. The introduction of the Winter Soldier added depth to the story, and the dynamic between Cap and Black Widow provided both humor and heart. With its intense action sequences, compelling plot, and character development, The Winter Soldier is often hailed as one of the best films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
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#4 - Captain America: Civil War
Captain America: Civil War is a pivotal film in the MCU, brilliantly pitting hero against hero in a conflict that goes beyond mere physical battles. The ideological clash between Team Cap and Team Iron Man forces characters and audiences alike to grapple with the complexities of power, responsibility, and friendship. The introduction of characters like Black Panther and Spider-Man adds new layers to the ever-expanding universe, while the action-packed airport battle remains one of the most iconic scenes in superhero cinema. Civil War is a masterclass in balancing character development, moral dilemmas, and high-stakes action, making it a standout chapter in the Captain America saga.
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#3 - The Avengers
Marvel's first victory lap, a groundbreaking ensemble film that brought together multiple superheroes for the first time in cinematic history. While this concept might seem commonplace now, it was a revolutionary idea in 2012. The dynamic interplay between Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, and the rest of the team was pure gold, creating a rich tapestry of character interactions and humor. Joss Whedon crafted the ultimate fan movie, blending action, humor, and heart in a way that still resonates with audiences today. The Avengers set a new standard for superhero films and marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the MCU.
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#2 - Avengers: Endgame
Avengers: Endgame was the ultimate victory lap, the grand finale of an epic 23-movie saga. It was an emotional rollercoaster that had fans cheering and crying in equal measure. The Russo brothers masterfully juggled over 70 characters, ensuring each one had their moment in the spotlight. The most impressive feat of Endgame is how perfectly it stuck the landing, bringing the entire Infinity Saga to a satisfying and memorable conclusion. It was a fitting end to an incredible journey, leaving a lasting impact on fans and the superhero genre as a whole.
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#1 - Avengers: Infinity War
Avengers: Infinity War was a monumental achievement in the MCU, a thrilling and heart-wrenching film that brought together heroes from across the universe to face their greatest challenge yet: Thanos. With its jaw-dropping action sequences, emotional depth, and shocking ending, Infinity War left audiences stunned and eager for the conclusion. The film's ability to balance a vast array of characters and storylines while maintaining a cohesive and compelling narrative is a testament to the skill of the Russo brothers and the Marvel team. Infinity War is not just a superhero movie; it's an epic event that set the stage for the dramatic conclusion in Endgame.