UPDATE 10/9/26: In this update, we have added Daredevil: Born Again (Season 2), The Punisher: One Last Kill, & Spider-Man: Brand New Day. We have also added the next two “Upcoming” projects for the first time – VisionQuest and Avengers:Doomsday. Both will be updated once they are fully released, but we have provided our best “Pre-Watch List” for each.

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The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is a sprawling saga of superhero films that spans over a decade and dozens of characters. But how do you watch them all in the best possible order? While you can always follow the release dates of the films, some fans prefer to watch them in chronological order, based on the events that happen in each film.

In this guide, however, we will list all the MCU films and series in our ideal order, along with some sidetrack options to enhance your viewing experience. We’ll also help you with “pre-game” viewing for later entries should you plan to follow one character through the timeline. You’ll also find the basics for each entry: Rating, Runtime, Rotten Tomatoes Scores (Critics & Fans), and IMDb Star Ratings. Whether you are a newcomer or a veteran fan, this is the ultimate way to enjoy the Marvel Cinematic Universe, according to us.

QUICK-JUMP NAVIGATION:
Infinity Saga: Phase One
Infinity Saga: Phase Two
Infinity Saga: Phase Three
Multiverse Saga: Phase Four
Multiverse Saga: Phase Five
Multiverse Saga: Phase Six
Movies & Series That are Partially Canon
Simplified LTN Watch Order List
Full Original Release Order List

SPOILER ALERT! Due to the nature of this list, some choices must be explained in a way that may ruin a surprise or a plot point. In fact, even the order that some of these are placed could count as a light spoiler. So, venture forth only if you have already watched through the MCU or if spoilers aren’t a big deal to you.

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#1 // Iron Man

Film (2008)

PG-13 | 126 min
RT: 94% / 91% | IMDb: 7.9

Synopsis: Tony Stark, a billionaire industrialist and genius inventor, is kidnapped and forced to build a devastating weapon, but instead creates a high-tech suit of armor to escape and fight evil.

Why this placement? It’s the first movie of the franchise. Though some film’s stories pre-date this movie in the timeline, this movie serves as a foundation to the entire MCU.

Is this optional? No. This is foundational.

What should I watch before this? Nothing. You can come into this fresh.

 

#2 // The Incredible Hulk

Film (2008)

PG-13 | 112 min
RT: 67% / 69% | IMDb: 6.6

Synopsis: Dr. Bruce Banner, on the run from the military, seeks a cure for his transformation into the Hulk, but faces a new creature, The Abomination.

Why this placement? Release order fits best. The events of this movie appear to happen at the same time as the events in Iron Man 2, so these two can be swapped around if desired.

Is this optional? Not anymore. Prior to What If…? and She-Hulk, most would have said this wasn’t a necessary watch, but now there are plenty of callbacks to justify its necessary inclusion. Also, a second long-forgotten character from this movie is returning to the MCU in 2025, and this is his origin too.

What should I watch before this?

1. Iron Man (2008) – Optional – Helps for the end credits scene.

 

#3 // Iron Man 2

Film (2010)

PG-13 | 124 min
RT: 72% / 71% | IMDb: 6.9

Synopsis: Tony Stark, now known to the world as Iron Man, resists government pressure to share his technology while battling health issues and a vengeful Russian scientist.

Why this placement? Just following the timeline.

Is this optional? No. This movie sets up Tony Stark’s role with the Avenger Initiative fairly heavily.

What should I watch before this?

1. Iron Man (2008)

 

#4 // The Consultant

One Shot (2011)

Not Rated | 4 min
RT: – – / 30% | IMDb: 6.4

Synopsis: S.H.I.E.L.D. agents Coulson and Sitwell scheme to prevent Emil Blonsky from joining the Avengers Initiative by sending Tony Stark to sabotage the negotiations.

Why this placement? This is a bit of a flashback, as timeline wise, this scene takes place before the end credit scene of The Incredible Hulk. But that end credits scene technically occurs after Iron Man 2. This is a compromise.

Is this optional? Yes. Aside from some light character building, there is little to offer here, and it is not integral to the main storyline.

What should I watch before this?

1. Iron Man (2008)
2. The Incredible Hulk (2008)
3. Iron Man 2 (2010)

 

#5 // A Funny Thing Happened On the Way to Thor’s Hammer

One Shot (2011)

Not Rated | 4 min
RT: – – / 58% | IMDb: 7.1

Synopsis: Agent Coulson stops at a convenience store and deals with a coincidental robbery during his visit, while on his way to the crater site where Thor’s hammer went down.

Why this placement? It takes place during the events of Iron Man 2, between Coulson leaving his Stark “babysitting duties” and the end credit scene and it a pre-cursor to Thor.

Is this optional? GOSH, YES. I mean, Coulson is fun and all, but it adds nothing.

What should I watch before this?

1. Iron Man 2 (2010)

 

#6 // Thor

Film (2011)

PG-13 | 115 min
RT: 77% / 76% | IMDb: 7.0

Synopsis: The arrogant warrior god Thor is banished from Asgard to Earth, where he must fight to reclaim his lost powers and prove himself worthy.

Why this placement? This plays out directly after Iron Man 2.

Is this optional? No. This is foundational.

What should I watch before this? Nothing. You can come into this movie fresh.

 

#7 // Captain America: The First Avenger

Film (2011)

PG-13 | 124 min
RT: 80% / 75% | IMDb: 6.9

Synopsis: Steve Rogers, a frail man transformed into the super-soldier Captain America during World War II, must stop the Red Skull from using the Tesseract as an energy source for world domination.

Why this placement? Chronologically, this movie is mostly set all before the events of Iron Man, until the ending. Because of the lead-in to The Avengers, its original release order is still our favorite placement.

Is this optional? Not at all. This is foundational.

What should I watch before this?

1. Thor (2011) – Optional – The end credits scene features a main villain in Thor and a plot point for The Avengers.

 

#8 // The Avengers

Film (2010)

PG-13 | 143 min
RT: 91% / 91% | IMDb: 8.0

Synopsis: Earth’s mightiest heroes must come together and learn to fight as a team to stop the mischievous Loki and his alien army from enslaving humanity.

Why this placement? All pieces so far come together to converge on this beautiful moment in time.

Is this optional? HECK NO AT ALL. This is why we’re here, nerds.

What should I watch before this?

1. Iron Man (2008)
2. The Incredible Hulk (2008)
3. Iron Man 2 (2010)
4. Thor (2011)
5. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)

 

#9 // Item 47

One Shot (2012)

Not Rated | 12 min
RT: – – / 48% | IMDb: 6.6

Synopsis: A down-on-their-luck couple, Benjamin Pollack and Claire Weiss, find a discarded Chitauri Gun after the Battle of New York and decide to use it to rob banks.

Why this placement? It’s right after the Battle of New York.

Is this optional? Uh huh. It’s a gag, nothing more.

What should I watch before this?

1. The Avengers (2012)

#10 // Iron Man 3

Film (2013)

PG-13 | 130
RT: 79% / 78% | IMDb: 7.1

Synopsis: Tony Stark, also known as Iron Man, embarks on a quest for retribution after his world is destroyed by a formidable terrorist known as the Mandarin.

Why this placement? This follows the events of The Avengers.

Is this optional? No. This is a key epilogue for The Avengers and sets the tone for the next Phase of the MCU.

What should I watch before this?

1. Iron Man (2008)
2. Iron Man 2 (2010)
3. The Avengers (2012)

 

#11 // Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

TV Series (Seasons 1 – 7, 2013 – 2020)

TV-PG | 87 hr 13 min
RT: 95% / 91% | IMDb: 7.5

Synopsis: Agent Phil Coulson and his team of S.H.I.E.L.D. agents handle strange new cases, investigate Project Centipede, and uncover the infiltration of the terrorist group Hydra within their organization.

Why this placement? This show followed up on The Avengers, making several references to a key event in the film.

Is this optional? Yes. As time went on, even with references to future Thor and Captain America movie events in the early seasons, this show and its characters were never really validated by the main story. By the end, most do not consider this show canon, though that isn’t official one way or the other. Bottom line: If you skip it, it won’t effect your MCU experience negatively. However, it’s a good enough show that we’d recommend it.

What should I watch before this?

1. Captain Marvel (2019) – Optional – While Agent Coulson is featured prominently in some scenes, it isn’t required viewing, but it is nice to see his earlier days.
2. Iron Man (2008) – Optional – If you want the full history of Agent Coulson, though he is only minorly featured in this film.
3. Iron Man 2 (2010)
4. The Avengers (2012)

 

#12 // Thor: The Dark World

Film (2013)

PG-13 | 112 min
RT: 67% / 75% | IMDb: 6.8

Synopsis: Thor embarks on a perilous personal journey, reuniting with Jane Foster and allying with his treacherous brother Loki, to save both Earth and Asgard from the Dark Elves who seek to plunge the universe into darkness using a weapon known as the Aether.

Why this placement? This follows the events of The Avengers.

Is this optional? No. As one of the weaker MCU movies up to this point, early on, we’d have said you could skip it. But it has become important, as a lot of moments in the film are visited again later in the timeline.

What should I watch before this?

1. Thor (2011)
2. The Avengers (2012)

 

#13 // Agent Carter

One Shot (2013)

Not Rated | 15 min
RT: – – / 79% | IMDb: 7.4

Synopsis: Peggy Carter, after World War II, battles sexism within the Strategic Scientific Reserve and embarks on a solo mission to acquire the mysterious Zodiac.

Why this placement? Though set after the events of Captain America: The First Avenger, it’s a good check-in on Agent Carter as her story continues in the past.

Is this optional? Yes, but it is a nice reminder of the character leading into the second Captain America film.

What should I watch before this?

1. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)

 

#14 // Captain America: The Winter Soldier

Film (2014)

PG-13 | 136 min
RT: 90% / 92% | IMDb: 7.8

Synopsis: Steve Rogers, also known as Captain America, teams up with Black Widow to uncover a conspiracy within S.H.I.E.L.D., while facing a mysterious assassin known as the Winter Soldier.

Why this placement? This follows the events of The Avengers.

Is this optional? No. Cap is always a requirement.

What should I watch before this?

1. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
2. The Avengers (2012)

 

#15 // All Hail the King

One Shot (2014)

Not Rated | 14 min
RT: – – / 62% | IMDb: 7.2

Synopsis: Trevor Slattery, after the events of Iron Man 3, has become an infamous icon and is now locked up in a high-security prison, where he is interviewed by a documentary filmmaker.

Why this placement? This fits here in a logical timeline between Iron Man 3 and when we see him next.

Is this optional? Yes, but it is fun backstory that will be referenced later in the timeline.

What should I watch before this?

1. Iron Man 3 (2013)

 

#16 // Guardians of the Galaxy

Film (2014)

PG-13 | 121 min
RT: 92% / 92% | IMDb: 8.0

Synopsis: An epic space adventure where Peter Quill, a brash adventurer, becomes the target of an unrelenting bounty hunt after stealing a mysterious orb coveted by Ronan, a powerful villain with ambitions that threaten the entire universe.

Why this placement? This was release order. It can kinda be placed anywhere prior to the next Avengers movie, as it does not yet have a huge connection to the overall story.

Is this optional? No. And furthermore, no one should ever skip a GOTG movie.

What should I watch before this? Nothing. This is the start of a brand new story. Aside from references to “Infinity Stones”, there is little to connect it to anything else yet.

 

#17 // Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

Film (2017)

PG-13 | 136 min
RT: 85% / 87% | IMDb: 7.6

Synopsis: A thrilling cosmic adventure where the Guardians, now recognized as heroes, must fight to keep their newfound family together as they unravel the mysteries of Peter Quill’s true parentage.

Why this placement? The events of this movie follow almost immediately after the event of the first movie in this series, though they play catch up in the SEVERAL end credits scenes. Note: This movie is from Phase Three, but fits better here.

Is this optional? NO, NO, NO

What should I watch before this?

1. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

 

#18 // Daredevil

Netflix Series (Seasons 1 – 3, 2015 – 2018)

TV-MA | 35 hr 10 min
RT: 92% / 98% | IMDb: 8.6

Synopsis: Matt Murdock, a blind lawyer by day, uses his heightened senses to fight crime as a masked vigilante in New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood at night.

Why this placement? Mainly the release date, but also to lineup with future events.

Is this optional? Currently, yes, but less and less so. With the release of Echo, it is clear that some, if not all of what happened in the Netflix series is now considered canon (where previously it was declared otherwise). More and more Netflix Defenders characters are showing up again, with more rumored to be on the way, however, everything is still “street-level”, largely set apart from the main MCU saga.

What should I watch before this? Nothing. This is the start of the Defenders saga on Netflix.

 

#19 // Avengers: Age of Ultron

Film (2015)

PG-13 | 141 min
RT: 76% / 82% | IMDb: 7.3

Synopsis: Tony Stark and Bruce Banner try to jump-start a dormant peacekeeping program called Ultron, but when things go wrong, it’s up to Earth’s mightiest heroes to stop the villainous Ultron from enacting his terrible plan.

Why this placement? Release order is the best order here.

Is this optional? Uh, no fam.

What should I watch before this?

1. The Avengers (2015)

 

#20 // Jessica Jones

Netflix Series (Seasons 1 – 3, 2015 – 2019)

TV-MA | 34 hr 18 min
RT: 83% / 79% | IMDb: 7.9

Synopsis: A superpowered woman, after a traumatic incident involving the villainous Kilgrave, transitions from a brief superhero career to become a private investigator.

Why this placement? Lining up with the Defenders timeline.

Is this optional? Jessica Jones is rumored to be returning officially in the MCU, after the success of Daredevil: Born Again. While currently, yes, this is optional, it might not be for long.

What should I watch before this? Nothing. Just dive in.

 

#21 // Ant-Man

Film (2015)

PG-13 | 117 min
RT: 83% / 85% | IMDb: 7.3

Synopsis: A master thief named Scott Lang, with the help of his mentor Dr. Hank Pym, must embrace his inner hero, use a suit that allows him to shrink in size and increase in strength, and pull off a heist that will save the world.

Why this placement? Chosen mostly to follow release schedule, however, this movie would work just as well viewed directly before Captain America: Civil War.

Is this optional? Not even a little… see what I did there?

What should I watch before this? Technically, nothing. There are references and cameos, but nothing you need before this movie.

 

#22 // Luke Cage

Netflix Series (Seasons 1 – 2, 2016 – 2018)

TV-MA | 23 hr 56 min
RT: 87% / 71% | IMDb: 7.3

Synopsis: A man, after a sabotaged experiment, gains super strength and unbreakable skin, becomes a fugitive trying to rebuild his life in Harlem, New York City, but is soon pulled out of the shadows to fight a battle for the heart of his city.

Why this placement? Following the Defenders release schedule.

Is this optional? Yes. There are currently no official plans to bring Luke Cage to the main MCU story.

What should I watch before this?

1. Jessica Jones (Season 1, 2015) – Luke is a heavily featured supporting character in the first season, where we learn some key elements of his story for the first time.

#23 // Doctor Strange

Film (2016)

PG-13 | 115 min
RT: 89% / 86% | IMDb: 7.5

Synopsis: A world-renowned neurosurgeon, Dr. Stephen Strange, after a devastating car accident, embarks on a journey of healing only to be drawn into the world of the mystic arts.

Why this placement? Just a release order boy here.

Is this optional? No. Doctor Strange is about to be a big deal.

What should I watch before this? Nothing, really. There are references to the Avengers, but nothing that is required viewing.

 

#24 // Iron First

Netflix Series (Seasons 1 – 2, 2017 – 2018)

TV-MA | 20 hr 38 min
RT: 37% / 67% | IMDb: 6.4

Synopsis: Danny Rand resurfaces 15 years after being presumed dead and, with the power of the Iron Fist, seeks to reclaim his past and fulfill his destiny.

Why this placement? Keeping pace with the Defenders saga release schedule.

Is this optional? Yes. There are currently no official plans to bring Iron First to the main MCU storyline.

What should I watch before this? Nothing, really. There may be some cameos or references, but nothing necessary. I’m gonna be honest, I couldn’t get through it.

 

#25 // The Defenders

Netflix Series (2017)

TV-MA | 6 hr 38 min
RT: 78% / 70% | IMDb: 7.2

Synopsis: Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, and Iron Fist, are four singular heroes who team up with the common goal of saving New York City.

Why this placement? This follows the release schedule for the Netflix shows.

Is this optional? Most likely. Only two of the four heroes is being called up to the main MCU storyline. It is unlikely the events of this limited series will impact future storylines.

What should I watch before this?

1. Daredevil (Seasons 1-2, 2015-2016)
2. Jessica Jones (Season 1, 2015)
3. Luke Cage (Season 1, 2016)
4. Iron Fist (Season 1, 2017)

 

#26 // The Punisher

Netflix Series (Seasons 1 – 2, 2017 – 2019)

TV-MA | 22 hr 59 min
RT: 65% / 78% | IMDb: 8.5

Synopsis: Frank Castle, known as The Punisher, uncovers a deep conspiracy after exacting revenge on those responsible for the death of his wife and children.

Why this placement? Partially following the release order, mainly just want to wrap up the Netflix shows, man, sheesh.

Is this optional? Sort of. Just like Daredevil, the Punisher has returned officially to the MCU, but is strictly “street-level” and thus still mostly exists outside of the main story. But that might change.

What should I watch before this?

1. Daredevil (Season 2, 2016)

 

#27 // Captain America: Civil War

Film (2016)

PG-13 | 147 min
RT: 91% / 89% | IMDb: 7.8

Synopsis: A disagreement over international oversight of the Avengers fractures the team into two opposing factions—one led by Steve Rogers (Captain America) and the other by Tony Stark (Iron Man).

Why this placement? This fits best a little further down the line from the release order, but not too much of a move.

Is this optional? Never. You should be watching it right now, in fact. This is essentially Avengers 2.5.

What should I watch before this?

1. Iron Man (2008)
2. Iron Man 2 (2010)
3. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
4. The Avengers (2012)
5. Iron Man 3 (2013)
6. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
7. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
8. Ant-Man (2015)

 

#28 // Team Thor

One Shot (2016)

Not Rated | 4 min
RT: – – / 73% | IMDb: 7.8

Synopsis: Thor, taking a break from his space journeys, becomes roommates with an ordinary office worker named Darryl Jacobson in Australia, and the two navigate their daily lives.

Why this placement? This is said to take place during the events of Civil War.

Is this optional? Yes. This is a goof and likely not canon. But even if it is, it has no bearing on the main MCU story.

What should I watch before this? We’ll say nothing. Technically, you’d want to watch at least Avengers: Age of Ultron and Captain America: Civil War to understand the premise, but that’s a lot of plot building for a mockumentary joke film.

 

#29 // Team Thor: Part 2

One Shot (2017)

Not Rated | 4 min
RT: – – / 82% | IMDb: 7.8

Synopsis: Thor and his roommate Darryl navigate their domestic responsibilities, with Darryl shouldering most of the cleaning duties.

Why this placement? It is simply a continuation of the gag from the previous one shot.

Is this optional? Heavens, yes. But it’s a little better than the first one.

What should I watch before this?

1. Team Thor (2016)

 

#30 // Inhumans

TV Series (2017)

TV-PG | 5 hr 37 min
RT: 11% / 43% | IMDb: 4.9

Synopsis: The Inhuman Royal Family, led by Black Bolt, escape to Hawaii after a military coup in their kingdom of Attilan, and must save themselves and the world.

Why this placement? This is where it released and there is no better place to put it. Technically, you could watch it anytime between Age of Ultron and Infinity War.

Is this optional? Mostly. This series was canceled too soon to tell if it would have a major impact on the main MCU, but we do see a main character return down the line (albeit from a different universe), so it might be worth it to give this short season a watch.

What should I watch before this? Nothing. No need.

 

#31 // Spider-Man: Homecoming

Film (2017)

PG-13 | 133 min
RT: 92% / 87% | IMDb: 7.4

Synopsis: Peter Parker tries to balance his life as a high school student in Queens with his superhero alter-ego Spider-Man, under the mentorship of Tony Stark, while facing a new menace, the Vulture.

Why this placement? This movie takes place both during and after the events of Civil War.

Is this optional? Nah, fam. Nah.

What should I watch before this?

1. Captain America: Civil War (2016)

 

#32 // Runaways

Hulu Series (Seasons 1 – 3, 2017 – 2019)

TV-14 | 26 hr 20 min
RT: 84% / 69% | IMDb: 6.9

Synopsis: Six teenagers discover that their parents are secretly members of a super-villain cabal called The Pride, leading them to unite against their parents and go on the run.

Why this placement? Mainly just release schedule.

Is this optional? Currently, yes. This show was canceled and it is unknown if anyone from the show will make an appearance later in the main MCU story. While some references to the main MCU story are made, the events of this series had no bearing on the main storyline, aside from the existence of the Darkhold (later utilized in WandaVision).

What should I watch before this?

1. Cloak & Dagger (Seasons 1-2, 2018-2019) – Optional – You can watch this before Season 3 of Runaways to fully enjoy the cameos.

 

#33 // Black Panther

Film (2018)

PG-13 | 134 min
RT: 96% / 79% | IMDb: 7.3

Synopsis: T’Challa, the new king of the advanced kingdom of Wakanda, must defend his land from being torn apart by enemies from outside and within.

Why this placement? The events of this movie come shortly after the events of Civil War.

Is this optional? No. Black Panther is just getting started.

What should I watch before this?

1. Avenger: Age of Ultron (2015) – Optional – There is some set-up from one of the villains in Black Panther here, but not the main one, and it’s not integral to the story.
2. Captain America: Civil War (2016)

 

#34 // Cloak & Dagger

TV Series (Seasons 1 – 2, 2018 – 2019)

TV-14 | 13 hr 56 min
RT: 87% / 66% | IMDb: 6.6

Synopsis: Two teenagers, Tandy Bowen and Tyrone Johnson, who come from very different backgrounds, find themselves burdened and awakened to newly acquired superpowers while falling in love.

Why this placement? This is about where the show fits in the release order. The show is canceled after two seasons, but these two characters cameo on Runaways final season.

Is this optional? Yes. It has no real bearing on the main MCU story and likely won’t be making a comeback.

What should I watch before this?

1. Runaways (Seasons 1-2, 2017-2018) – Optional – Watching these will give you set up for the main characters final appearances.

What should I watch after this?

1. Runaways (Season 3, 2019) – Optional – The story of Cloak & Dagger comes to an end on TV in this season.

 

#35 // Ant-Man and The Wasp

Film (2018)

PG-13 | 118 min
RT: 87% / 80% | IMDb: 7.0

Synopsis: Scott Lang, also known as Ant-Man, balances his life as a superhero and a father, and is presented with an urgent new mission by Hope van Dyne and Dr. Hank Pym. He fights alongside The Wasp (Hope) to uncover secrets from their past.

Why this placement? Originally, this was released between Infinity War and Endgame, but aside from an end credit scene, there is no reason to watch it that late.

Is this optional? No. This film features a crucial plot point for an upcoming Avengers film.

What should I watch before this?

1. Ant-Man (2015)
2. Captain America: Civil War (2016)

 

#36 // Black Widow

Film (2021)

PG-13 | 134 min
RT: 79% / 91% | IMDb: 6.7

Synopsis: Natasha Romanoff, also known as Black Widow, confronts the darker parts of her ledger when a dangerous conspiracy tied to her past arises.

Why this placement? Though this movie was released well after Endgame, it is entirely set between the events of Civil War and Infinity War, with an end credits scene teasing the future of her sister. It fits perfectly where we have transplanted it. Note: This movie is from Phase Four, but fits better here.

Is this optional? No. It stands to reason that since this story was added to the timeline long after Endgame, that we don’t really need it, as we got along without it before. But Natasha’s sister Yelena is already a featured side-character in another series, with plans for more in the future. So, for her sake, yes, watch it.

What should I watch before this?

1. Iron Man 2 (2010)
2. The Avengers (2012)
3. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
4. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
5. Captain America: Civil War (2016)

 

#37 // Thor: Ragnarok

Film (2017)

PG-13 | 130 min
RT: 93% / 87% | IMDb: 7.9

Synopsis: Thor is imprisoned on the other side of the universe without his mighty hammer and finds himself in a race against time to get back to Asgard to stop Ragnarok—the destruction of his homeworld and the end of Asgardian civilization—at the hands of an all-powerful new threat, the ruthless Hela.

Why this placement? This actually chronicles what Thor has been doing since Age of Ultron, or at least, the tail end of it. It also leads straight into Infinity War.

Is this optional? No. And it’s a top 3 MCU movie, folks.

What should I watch before this?

1. Thor (2011)
2. The Avengers (2012)
3. Thor: The Dark World (2013)
4. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

 

#38 // Team Darryl

One Shot (2018)

Not Rated | 4 min
RT: – – / 40% | IMDb: 6.6

Synopsis: After Thor moves out, Darryl gets a new roommate, the Grandmaster, who, after being exiled from Sakaar, has plans to take over Earth with Darryl by his side.

Why this placement? This goofy short is set right after the events of Thor: Ragnarok.

Is this optional? Yes. And it probably isn’t canon. But it’s funny.

What should I watch before this?

1. Team Thor (2016)
2. Team Thor: Part 2 (2017)
3. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

 

#39 // Avengers: Infinity War

Film (2018)

PG-13 | 149 min
RT: 85% / 92% | IMDb: 8.4

Synopsis: The Avengers and the Guardians of the Galaxy attempt to prevent Thanos from collecting the six all-powerful Infinity Stones as part of his quest to kill half of all life in the universe.

Why this placement? This is what it’s been building to, baby!

Is this optional? … How dare you.

What should I watch before this?

1. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
2. The Avengers (2012)
3. Thor: The Dark World (2013)
4. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
5. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
6. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
7. Doctor Strange (2016)
8. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
9. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
10. Black Panther (2018)
11. Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
12. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

 

#40 // Captain Marvel

Film (2019)

PG-13 | 123 min
RT: 79% / 45% | IMDb: 6.8

Synopsis: Set in 1995, Carol Danvers becomes Captain Marvel after Earth is caught in the center of a galactic conflict between two alien civilizations.

Why this placement? This is where it was originally released, despite being set decades in the past. It was done to both preserve the surprise at the very end of Infinity War and introduce us to a large side character featured in Endgame. So, we think the original placement is best.

Is this optional? No. She is a key figure in Endgame. You need the context. Plus, this movie is just as much about Nick Fury’s story.

What should I watch before this?

1. Avengers: Infinity War (2018) – Optional – The movie can stand alone, as the start of a new story. And she is only teased in the last couple seconds of Infinity War. But it does give full context on why she is called and leads into her next appearance in Endgame.

 

#41 // Agent Carter

TV Series (Seasons 1 – 2, 2015 – 2016)

TV-PG | 12 hr 37 min
RT: 86% / 77% | IMDb: 7.8

Synopsis: Peggy Carter, a secret agent in the 1940s, balances her life with covertly assisting Howard Stark, who has been framed for supplying deadly weapons to the enemies of the United States.

Why this placement? It’s hard to place this series in the watch order, simply because it is so displaced in time. But we choose this spot in order to catch up on what she has done since losing Steve Rogers to the ice, before we see her again in the future.

Is this optional? Yes. None of the stories told in this series are required viewing, as they have little to no bearing on the main storyline.

What should I watch before this?

1. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
2. Agent Carter (One Shot, 2013)

 

#42 // Avengers: Endgame

Film (2019)

PG-13 | 181 min
RT: 94% / 90% | IMDb: 8.4

Synopsis: The remaining Avengers take a final stand to reverse Thanos’ actions that wiped out half the universe, by utilizing time travel.

Why this placement? This is where the first MCU saga comes to an end.

Is this optional? I’m not even going to dignify that with an answer.

What should I watch before this?

1. Iron Man (2008)
2. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
3. The Avengers (2012)
4. Thor: The Dark World (2013)
5. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
6. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
7. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
8. Doctor Strange (2016)
9. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
10. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
11. Black Panther (2018)
12. Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
13. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
14. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
15. Captain Marvel (2019)

 

#43 // Spider-Man: Far From Home

Film (2019)

PG-13 | 129 min
RT: 90% / 95% | IMDb: 7.4

Synopsis: Peter Parker joins his friends on a European vacation, where he agrees to help Nick Fury uncover the mystery of several elemental creature attacks.

Why this placement? This is the epilogue to the “Infinity Saga”, serving as a bridge between Endgame and the next “saga” of the MCU.

Is this optional? No. It’s a must watch.

What should I watch before this?

1. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
2. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
3. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
4. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

---

#44 // WandaVision

Disney+ Series (2021)

TV-PG | 5 hr 50 min
RT: 91% / 88% | IMDb: 7.9

Synopsis: Wanda Maximoff and Vision, two super-powered beings living their ideal suburban life, begin to suspect that everything is not as it seems.

Why this placement? This series directly follows the events of Endgame.

Is this optional? No. This leads into a larger story.

What should I watch before this?

1. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
2. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
3. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
4. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

 

#45 // The Falcon and the Winter Soldier

Disney+ Series (2021)

TV-14 | 5 hr
RT: 85% / 82% | IMDb: 7.1

Synopsis: Sam Wilson (Falcon) and Bucky Barnes (Winter Soldier) team up in a global adventure to stop anti-patriots who believe the world was better during the Blip, set six months after Sam Wilson was handed the mantle of Captain America.

Why this placement? This series directly follows the events of Endgame.

Is this optional? No. This leads into a larger story.

What should I watch before this?

1. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
2. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
3. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
4. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
5. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
6. Avengers: Endgame (2018)

 

#46 // Loki (Season 1)

Disney+ Series (2021)

TV-14 | 4 hr 19 min
RT: 91% / 92% | IMDb: 8.2

Synopsis: The mercurial villain Loki, after stealing the Tesseract during the events of Avengers: Endgame, is brought to the mysterious Time Variance Authority (TVA) and is forced to help catch a dangerous variant version of himself.

Why this placement? This series directly follows the events of Endgame. However, given that this series is “outside of time”, it would make just as much sense to put it right before Season 2 down below, as it really tells one story that wraps up towards the end of this Phase.

Is this optional? No. This leads into a larger story.

What should I watch before this?

1. Thor (2011)
2. The Avengers (2012)
3. Avengers: Endgame (2019) – Loki appears in several more movies you have the option of adding in, but the version of Loki in this series is from directly after the events of the first Avengers movie.

 

#47 // What If…? (Season 1)

Disney+ Series (2021)

TV-14 | 5 hr 15 min
RT: 94% / 92% | IMDb: 7.4

Synopsis: What If…? explores various alternate timelines across the multiverse, showing what would happen if major moments from the Marvel Cinematic Universe films occurred differently, as observed by the Watcher.

Why this placement? This is the first taste of the multiverse in action. All of these events are canon, just not in the main MCU timeline.

Is this optional? Ish. While it has no direct bearing on the main MCU storyline (so far), it does lay the groundwork for multiverse hijinks and may have a bigger impact on future events than we currently know. It’s also just a phenomenal series.

What should I watch before this? 

1. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
2. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
3. Thor (2011)
4. The Incredible Hulk (2008)
5. Doctor Strange (2016)
6. Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
7. Iron Man (2008)
8. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

 

#48 // Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings

Film (2021)

PG-13 | 132 min
RT: 92% / 98% | IMDb: 7.4

Synopsis: Shang-Chi, a master of weaponry-based Kung Fu, is forced to confront his past after being drawn into the Ten Rings organization.

Why this placement? This is the release order.

Is this optional? No. It’s unclear how the Ten Rings fits into the future of the MCU, but the end credits make it clear that they indeed will.

What should I watch before this?

1. Iron Man 3 (2013)
2. All Hail the King (2014)

 

#49 // Eternals

Film (2021)

PG-13 | 156 min
RT: 47% / 77% | IMDb: 6.3

Synopsis: A group of immortal alien beings known as the Eternals, emerge from hiding after thousands of years to protect Earth from their ancient counterparts, the Deviants.

Why this placement? This is the original release order.

Is this optional? Ehhhh… no, probably not. Despite this movie being a bit of a letdown, it seems to be setting up a lot for the future, possibly well into the potential third saga.

What should I watch before this? Nothing. They’ve been asleep. They missed everything up until this point. THANKS FOR THE HELP WITH THANOS, JERKS.

 

#50 // Hawkeye

Disney+ Series (2021)

TV-14 | 5 hr 39 min
RT: 92% / 88% | IMDb: 7.5

Synopsis: Former Avenger Clint Barton partners with Kate Bishop, a young archer aspiring to be a superhero, to confront enemies from his past in order to get back to his family in time for Christmas.

Why this placement? Release date.

Is this optional? No. This show sets up a new hero, continues the story of another one who was recently introduced, and introduces a former Netflix series villain to the main MCU storyline. It’s also a beautiful possible ending for Clint.

What should I watch before this?

1. Thor (2011)
2. The Avengers (2012)
3. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
4. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
5. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
6. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
7. Daredevil (Season 1, 2015) – Optional – A villain from this series is seen again, for the first time in the main MCU continuity.

 

#51 // Spider-Man: No Way Home

Film (2021)

PG-13 | 148 min
RT: 93% / 98% | IMDb: 8.2

Synopsis: Peter Parker’s secret identity is revealed to the world, and in a desperate attempt to erase this knowledge, he turns to Doctor Strange for help, but the spell goes horribly wrong, shattering the multiverse and bringing in monstrous villains.

Why this placement? This is exactly where it fits in the story.

Is this optional? I WILL SLAP YOU.

What should I watch before this? (Buckle up.)

1. Spider-Man (2002)
2. Spider-Man 2 (2004)
3. Spider-Man 3 (2007)
4. The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)
5. The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014)
6. Doctor Strange (2016)
7. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
8. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
9. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
10. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
11. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
12. Daredevil (Seasons 1-3, 2015-2018) – Optional – Matt Murdock makes a brief appearance, but it is his first time in the main MCU storyline.
13. Venom (2018) – Optional – There is a fun bit at the tail end of No Way Home featuring Eddie Brock.
14. Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2012) – Optional – The final moments of this movie tease the crossover with Spider-Man.

What should I watch after this? These movies are not canon to the MCU, but all three versions of Spider-Man are referenced or even shown in this trilogy. And these movies are possibly the best superhero movies ever made (assuming they stick the landing with the yet-to-release third installment).

1. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse (2018)
2. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-verse (2023)
3. Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-verse (TBA)

 

#52 // Moon Knight

Disney+ Series (2022)

TV-14 | 4 hr 47 min
RT: 86% / 89% | IMDb: 7.3

Synopsis: Steven Grant, a mild-mannered gift-shop employee, becomes plagued with blackouts and memories of another life, discovers he has dissociative identity disorder, and shares a body with mercenary Marc Spector.

Why this placement? This is release order, but could be moved in the future.

Is this optional? For now, yes. There is no real connection to anything else in the MCU just yet. But this will almost certainly change.

What should I watch before this? Nothing. It’s new and stands alone currently.

 

#53 // She-Hulk: Attorney at Law

Disney+ Series (2022)

TV-14 | 3 hr 54 min
RT: 77% / 32% | IMDb: 5.3

Synopsis: Jennifer Walters, a single, 30-something attorney specializing in superhuman-oriented legal cases, also happens to be a green 6-foot-7-inch superpowered hulk.

Why this placement? Release date. And it’s set relatively soon after Endgame.

Is this optional? Um… probably not. With the strange ending, it’s unclear if She-Hulk will (or even could) be featured further in the main MCU story. However, some characters and plot points introduced are definitely canon and affect the larger story.

What should I watch before this?

1. The Incredible Hulk (2008)
2. The Avengers (2012)
3. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
4. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
5. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
6. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
7. Daredevil (Seasons 1-3, 2015-2018) – Optional – Daredevil is a supporting character, but little is referenced from the original Netflix series, so it’s not required, but it will give you a better feel for the character.

 

#54 // Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

Film (2022)

PG-13 | 126 min
RT: 73% / 85% | IMDb: 6.9

Synopsis: Doctor Strange teams up with a mysterious teenage girl who can travel across multiverses to battle multiple threats, including other-universe versions of himself, which threaten to wipe out millions across the multiverse.

Why this placement? Timeline coincides with WandaVision timeline.

Is this optional? No. This is a big payoff for the story of Wanda Maximoff and also showcases the scope of the multiverse.

What should I watch before this?

1. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
2. Doctor Strange (2016)
3. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
4. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
5. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
6. WandaVision (2021)
7. What If…? (Season 1, 2021) – Optional – A few characters similar to characters featured in this film are showcased.
8. X-Men (2000) – Optional – A version of a character from this movie is featured, played by the same actor.
9. Inhumans (2017) – Optional – A version of a character from this series is featured, played by the same actor.

 

#55 // Thor: Love and Thunder

Film (2022)

PG-13 | 118 min
RT: 63% / 77% | IMDb: 6.2

Synopsis: Thor embarks on a quest for inner peace, but his retirement is interrupted by Gorr the God Butcher, who seeks the extinction of all gods, leading Thor to team up with Valkyrie, Korg, and his ex-girlfriend Jane Foster, who now wields his magical hammer, Mjolnir, as the Mighty Thor.

Why this placement? Release order.

Is this optional? No. It might not be as good as Ragnarok, but it still lays the groundwork for the future.

What should I watch before this?

1. Thor (2011)
2. The Avengers (2012)
3. Thor: The Dark World (2013)
4. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
5. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
6. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
7. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

 

#56 // Werewolf By Night

Disney+ Special (2022)

TV-14 | 52 min
RT: 89% / 89% | IMBd: 7.2

Synopsis: Jack Russell, a werewolf, and a group of monster hunters compete for a powerful relic while facing a dangerous monster.

Why this placement? Conflicting interviews make the placing of this film on the MCU timeline tricky, as it is purposefully ambiguous as to if this is set in the past, present, or future – though the black and white aspect and nature of the film certainly is meant to imply that it is set in the past. For now, we are leaving it in release order until otherwise informed, mainly for the hope that a future crossover with Moon Knight is on the horizon.

Is this optional? Yeah. It’s pretty much a stand-alone story removed from the larger MCU story.

What should I watch before this? Nothing. Watch it on Halloween.

 

#57 // Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Film (2022)

PG-13 | 161 min
RT: 84% / 94% | IMDb: 6.7

Synopsis: Queen Ramonda, Shuri, M’Baku, Okoye and the Dora Milaje band together to protect Wakanda from intervening world powers following King T’Challa’s death.

Why this placement? Release order will do.

Is this optional? No. Not only because it is important to the overall story of the MCU, but also because it is a beautiful tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman.

What should I watch before this?

1. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
2. Black Panther (2018)
3. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
4. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
5. What If…? (Season 1, 2021) – Optional – This series doesn’t really affect Wakanda Forever, but it was the last MCU project Boseman was a part of, voicing the animated T’Challa for the series.

#58 // Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania

Film (2023)

PG-13 | 124 min
RT: 46% / 82% | IMDb: 6.1

Synopsis: Scott Lang, Hope Van Dyne, and their family accidentally transport to the Quantum Realm and face off against Kang the Conqueror.

Why this placement? The multiverse is really ramping up.

Is this optional? Originally, we said no, as Kang the Conqueror was supposed to be the big bad at the end of the “Multiverse Saga,” however, that has changed, and Kang’s story is largely wrapped up by the end of Loki (Season 2). The answer is still likely no, but its importance to the main MCU story has been greatly reduced.

What should I watch before this?

1. Ant-Man (2015)
2. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
3. Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
4. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
5. Loki (Season 1, 2021)

 

#59 // The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special

Disney+ Special (2022)

TV-14 | 42 min
RT: 94% / 80% | IMDb: 6.9

Synopsis: The Guardians head to Earth during Christmas to find the perfect present for Peter Quill, who is upset following Gamora’s disappearance.

Why this placement? We moved this back to just before Vol. 3 because nothing significant happens between the two for the Guardians and they appear to be close chronologically. Note: Technically, this is from Phase Four, but just barely.

Is this optional? Where’s your Christmas spirit? Look, does this special shake up anything huge? No. Is it full of Christmas cheer? You bet! Plus, a mild plot point is revealed, that is referenced again in Vol. 3.

What should I watch before this?

1. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
2. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
3. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
4. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

 

#60 // Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Film (2023)

PG-13 | 2 hr 30 min
RT: 82% / 94% | IMDb: 7.9

Synopsis: Peter Quill, still reeling from the loss of Gamora, must rally his team around him to defend the universe and protect one of their own, Rocket, whose turbulent past has come back to haunt him.

Why this placement? This is where it fits chronologically and by release date.

Is this optional? No. This is a amazing finale to this team’s journey.

What should I watch before this?

1. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
2. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
3. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
4. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
5. The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)

 

#61 // Secret Invasion

Disney+ Series (2023)

TV-14 | 3 hr 43 min
RT: 54% / 48% | IMDb: 6.0

Synopsis: Nick Fury and the Skrull Talos uncover a conspiracy by a group of shapeshifting Skrulls to conquer Earth.

Why this placement? Release date.

Is this optional? As it stands now, the impact to the MCU at large is relatively minimal. However, it does continue the story from Captain Marvel, and that has value. Currently, it seems optional.

What should I watch before this?

1. Captain Marvel (2019)
2. Iron Man 2 (2010)
3. The Avengers (2012)
4. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
5. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)

 

#62 // Ms. Marvel

Disney+ Series (2022)

TV-PG | 4 hr 31 min
RT: 98% / 80% | IMDb: 6.3

Synopsis: Kamala Khan, a Muslim American teenager and a Super Hero mega fan, feels like an outsider until she gains her own superpowers.

Why this placement? We pushed this back to just before The Marvels, as it appears that the series leads directly in the film.

Is this optional? No. This series sets up the sequel to Captain Marvel. It also introduces the idea of “mutants” to the MCU for the first time.

What should I watch before this?

1. Captain Marvel (2019)
2. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

 

#63 // The Marvels

Film (2023)

PG-13 | 1 hr 45 min
RT: 61% / 83% | IMDb: 5.8

Synopsis: The Marvels features characters Carol Danvers (Captain Marvel), Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel), and Monica Rambeau. The story revolves around these heroes joining forces to tackle a cosmic adventure that spans the universe, blending their unique powers and backgrounds. With their powers oddly forcing them to stay in close proximity, one of them is running from a past shame.

Why this placement? Although this released the day after the final episode of Loki’s second season aired, The Marvels more closely connects to previous stories than to the further plight of the multiverse (except for one exciting end credits scene).

Is this optional? Almost certainly not. Time will tell. If nothing else, the end credits scene likely informs future multiverse fun.

What should I watch before this?

1. X-Men: The Last Stand (2006) – Optional – There is a key character that shows up that was highly present in this film.
2. Captain Marvel (2019)
3. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
4. WandaVision (2021)
5. Ms. Marvel (2022)

 

#64 // Loki (Season 2)

Disney+ Series (2023)

TV-14 | 4 hr 57 min
RT: 82% / 81% | IMDb: 8.4

Synopsis: In the aftermath of the shocking Season 1 finale, Loki finds himself in a battle for the soul of the Time Variance Authority, navigating an ever-expanding and increasingly dangerous multiverse in search of Sylvie, Judge Renslayer, Miss Minutes and the truth of what it means to possess free will and glorious purpose.

Why this placement? This seems to be a fitting ending to Loki’s story (but is it the end?) and it currently hints at playing a bigger role in the next Avengers movies.

Is this optional? No. We will revisit this ending.

What should I watch before this?

1. Thor (2011)
2. The Avengers (2012)
3. Avengers: Endgame (2019) 
4. Loki (Season 1, 2021)
5. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)

 

#65 // What If…? (Season 2)

Disney+ Series (2023)

TV-14 | 4 hr 49 min
RT: 83% / 75% | IMDb: 7.4

Synopsis: What If…? explores various alternate timelines across the multiverse, showing what would happen if major moments from the Marvel Cinematic Universe films occurred differently, as observed by the Watcher. In Season 2, we see new characters, as well as a few favorites from the first season.

Why this placement? Given the final moments of the last episode, it must take place after Loki (Season 2).

Is this optional? Ish. While it has no direct bearing on the main MCU storyline (so far), it does lay the groundwork for multiverse hijinks and may have a bigger impact on future events than we currently know. It’s also just a phenomenal series. It also teases the jump into the main MCU movies for one or more of these characters.

What should I watch before this? 

1. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
2. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
3. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
4. Iron Man 3 (2013)
5. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
6. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
7. The Incredible Hulk (2008)
8. Doctor Strange (2016)
9. Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
10. What If…? (Season 1) (2021)

 

#66 // Echo

Disney+/Hulu Series (2024)

TV-MA | 3 hr 34 min
RT: 73% / 70% | IMDb: 6.4

Synopsis: Maya Lopez must face her past, reconnect with her Native American roots and embrace the meaning of family and community if she ever hopes to move forward.

Why this placement? Currently just release order. May be moved if timeline becomes more clear.

Is this optional? Unclear. Following Maya Lopez, one of the antagonists from Hawkeye, we learn more about her connection to Daredevil‘s Wilson Fisk, establishing at least several elements from the Daredevil series as canon, yet all of the Netflix shows still have little connection to the main MCU storyline. Currently, that seems to be the case with Echo as well. It is yet to be seen if this will connect to the larger story or if this will remain a separate story.

What should I watch before this? 

1. Daredevil (Seasons 1 – 3, 2015 – 2018)
2. Hawkeye (2021)

 

#67 // Deadpool & Wolverine

Film (2024)

R | 2 hr 7 min
RT: 78% / 94% | IMDb: 8.0

Synopsis: “Deadpool & Wolverine” unites the wisecracking mercenary and grizzled mutant. Together, they face a powerful new enemy, blending outrageous humor, intense action, and clashing personalities as they confront their pasts and battle for survival in a high-stakes, unpredictable adventure.

Why this placement? Based on a certain characters role in the TVA, it is clear that this takes place after the events of Loki (S2).

Is this optional? Probably. This movie is a brilliant love letter to the Fox Marvel movies, paying homage to several franchises from the past, especially the X-Men saga. And it’s a fantastic finale for the Deadpool trilogy. But this movie is also VERY R-rated, and Marvel might not want to make this movie or any of this character’s future titles necessary viewing for the overall MCU story, as to not alienate families with younger kids. While it does touch heavily on the “multiverse” gimmick, it ultimately seems very self-contained. The only reason it might play into the main storyline is if some of the characters find their way into Secret Wars.

What should I watch before this? 

1. Deadpool (2016)
2. Deadpool 2 (2018)
3. Loki (Season 1 & 2, 2021 – 2023)
4. Logan (2017)

The following are optional, but to get the full effect of the characters and cameos, you should also watch the following:

1. X-Men (2000)
2. X2: X-Men United (2003)
3. X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
4. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
5. The Wolverine (2013)
6. X-Men: First Class (2011)
7. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
8. Fantastic Four (2005)
9. Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007)
10. Daredevil (2003)
11. Elektra (2005)
12. Blade (1998)

 

#68 // Agatha All Along

Disney+ Series (2024)

TV-14 | 5 hr 53 min
RT: 84% / 83% | IMDb: 7.2

Synopsis: Set after the events of “WandaVision,” Agatha Harkness recruits some unlikely allies on her quest to regain her former powers, discovering an unlikely return in the process.

Why this placement? Currently based on release order. No reason to assume it is out of place yet.

Is this optional? As for Agatha’s story, this is possibly the last we really focus on her (though I hope not). However, based on the secondary character’s arc, I’m assuming we’ll see more of him in the near future (possibly with the Young Avengers). So, as it sits right now, I would recommend watching this, though it might not be mandatory in the long run.

What should I watch before this? 

1. WandaVision (Series, 2021)
2. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)

 

#69 // What If…? (Season 3)

Disney+ Series (2024)

TV-14 | 4 hr 7 min
RT: 81% / 35% | IMDb: 7.4

Synopsis: Exploring pivotal moments from the Marvel Cinematic Universe and turning them on their head, leading the audience into uncharted territory, Season 3 of What If…? brings us to the end of The Watcher and Captain Carter’s story.

Why this placement? Mainly the release date. Agatha is also featured in an episode, so it’s nice to catch up with her latest adventure before seeing her here. However, you could watch this directly after What If…? (Season 2) and it wouldn’t affect anything that we can see.

Is this optional? Kinda. While it likely won’t affect the larger MCU storyline in any meaningful way, the likelihood that we will see many of these characters (and more teased at the very end) in upcoming projects is high, and this is a great way to get their backstory before we see them on the big screen.

What should I watch before this? 

1. What If…? (Season 1, 2021)
2. What If…? (Season 2, 2023)

Honestly, by this point, the first two seasons are all the preamble you need, but here are a few titles to add to the watch lists of the other two seasons, if you wanna go the extra mile:

1. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
2. Black Widow (2021)
3. WandaVision (Series, 2021)
4. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (Series, 2021)
5. Eternals (2021)
6. Moon Knight (Series, 2022)
7. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
8. Agatha All Along (Series, 2024)
9. X-Men ’97 (Series, 2024) – Optional – The last two episodes feature an X-Men character largely similar to the one presented in this series.

 

#70 // Captain America: Brave New World

Film (2025)

PG-13 | 1 hr 58 min
RT: 46% / 77% | IMDb: 5.6

Synopsis: Anthony Mackie is back as the soaring hero Sam Wilson, now fully stepping into his role as Captain America. When he meets with the newly elected U.S. President Thaddeus Ross, Sam is quickly caught in the midst of an international crisis. To stop a dangerous global scheme, he must uncover the truth before the real villain plunges the world into chaos.

Why this placement? Release date. It’s pretty clear this is leading up to the big finale.

Is this optional? Not really. Aside from finally establishing Sam Wilson firmly as the new Cap and providing some answers for some old loose ends, the overall story is mostly a placeholder, with the real tease being the discovery of a new element for the first time in this universe.

What should I watch before this? 

1. The Incredible Hulk (2008)
2. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
3. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
4. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
5. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
6. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
7. Avengers: Endgame (2018)
8. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (Season 1, 2021)

 

#71 // Daredevil: Born Again (Season 1)

Disney+ Series (2025)

TV-MA | 7 hr 15 min
RT: 87% / 80% | IMDb: 8.1

Synopsis: Matt Murdock is thrust into conflict with Wilson Fisk as buried truths from their pasts come back to the surface.

Why this placement? Mainly the release date.

Is this optional? I mean… I don’t really know yet. Yes, Daredevil is officially canon, but it is also distinctly street-level. It is assumed that Daredevil and future Defenders projects will remain true to the original Netflix shows, largely unaffected by the overarching MCU. So, for now, I’d say yes, this mostly likely optional.

What should I watch before this? 

1. Daredevil (Seasons 1-3, 2015-2018)
2. The Defenders (Season 1, 2017)
3. The Punisher (Seasons 1-2, 2017-2019)
4. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
5. She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (Series, 2022)
6. Echo (2024)

 

#72 // Thunderbolts*

Film (2025)

PG-13 | 2 hr 7 min
RT: 88% / 93% | IMDb: 7.3

Synopsis: After finding themselves ensnared in a death trap, an unconventional team of antiheroes must go on a dangerous mission that will force them to confront the darkest corners of their pasts.

Why this placement? Release date. It is set after Brave New World and leads into Fantastic Four via the end credits scene.

Is this optional? No. This is essentially the set up of a new super team as we head into Doomsday. It’s also so beautifully done.

What should I watch before this? 

1. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
2. Captain America: The Winter Solider (2014)
3. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
4. Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
5. Black Widow (2021)
6. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
7. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
8. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (Series, 2021)
9. Hawkeye (Series, 2021)
10. Captain America: Brave New World (2025)

 

#73 // Ironheart (Season 1)

Disney+ Series (2025)

TV-14 | 4 hr 49 min
RT: 77% / 48% | IMDb: 6.1

Synopsis: Riri builds her most powerful suit yet, but she’s unsure if it’s enough to beat Parker and The Hood.

Why this placement? Release date.

Is this optional? For now, possibly. There has been little-to-no connection to the wider MCU story, besides mentions of Iron Man and Wakanda. Will she join the Young Avengers one day? Probably. But for now, I don’t think it’s necessary.

What should I watch before this? 

1. Iron Man (2008)
2. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)

#74 // The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Film (2025)

PG-13 | 1 hr 55 min
RT: 86% / 90% | IMDb: 6.9

Synopsis: Set on the retro-futuristic Earth-828. Bound by family and driven by responsibility, the Fantastic Four must protect Earth from the cosmic devourer Galactus and his mysterious herald, the Silver Surfer.

Why this placement? This is the first film of Phase Six, the final phase of the Multiverse Saga.

Is this optional? No. This film features the literal first steps towards Avengers: Doomsday.

What should I watch before this? Honestly, there doesn’t appear to be anything required here. This movie is the first time we see these characters and it’s our first visit to this universe, so there isn’t much set-up. The only real breadcrumb we see before this is the end credits scene from Thunderbolts*, but it is clear that this occurs after the events of this movie, so you’re good. A different version of Reed Richards was briefly featured in Multiverse of Madness, though it was a throwaway fan-service moment and doesn’t seem connected to the larger story at all.

 

#75 // Eyes of Wakanda

Disney+ Series (2025)

TV-14 | 119 min
RT: 92% / 52% | IMDb: 6.2

Synopsis: A saga following generations of Wakandan warriors who journey across the world to reclaim powerful and perilous vibranium artifacts scattered throughout history.

Why this placement? This could be watched any time after the original Black Panther. Each episode is set far in the past, long before any of the events of the MCU storyline. We put it here simply because of release order.

Is this optional? Yes. While you’ll learn some history of Wakanda and how they interacted with the rest of the world long before revealing themselves to it, it doesn’t appear to have anything to do with the overarching storyline.

What should I watch before this?

1. Black Panther (2018)
2. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)

 

#76 // Marvel Zombies

Disney+ Series (2025)

TV-MA | 124 min
RT: 66% / 68% | IMDb: 7.0

Synopsis: After a zombie plague consumes the Avengers, a small band of survivors uncovers a way to stop the super-powered undead and must cross a ravaged world, risking everything to save what remains of their own.

Why this placement? Just release order.

Is this optional? Yes. This is a fun and frightening continuation of the one-shot episode of What If…?, but it is not central to the MCU at all, taking place in a different universe altogether.

What should I watch before this?

1. What If…? (Season 1, Episode 5) – This is essentially the pilot of this series, so this is mandatory for this series.

 

#77 // Wonder Man

Disney+ Series (2026)

TV-14 | 267 min
RT: 91% / 87% | IMDb: 7.5

Synopsis: Small-time actor Simon Williams tries to balance his messy personal life with the secret of his superpowers while chasing the role of his dreams. At the same time, a shady government asset, Trevor Slattery, exploits a new friendship to keep his job from slipping away.

Why this placement? Release order.

Is this optional? For now, maybe. So far, this seems very self-contained and not a part of the overarching storyline. However, given it’s popularity, we are almost certainly guaranteed a second season. When and if Wonder Man will play a larger role in the MCU remains to be seen.

What should I watch before this?

While this series is the beginning of Simon’s story, in order to get a complete picture of Trevor Slattery, you can follow his story progression.

1. Iron Man 3 (2013)
2. All Hail the King (One Shot, 2014)
3. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)

 

#78 // Daredevil: Born Again (Season 2)

Disney+ Series (2026)

TV-MA | 389 min
RT: 86% / 85% | IMDb: 8.1

Synopsis: Matt Murdock rallies allies to resist Mayor Wilson Fisk’s corrupt rule and reclaim New York as a ruthless crackdown forces its vigilantes into the shadows.

Why this placement? Release order.

Is this optional? As with Season 1,  this revival of Daredevil seems to be similar to the Netflix version, in that it remains largely outside of the overarching storyline of the MCU.

What should I watch before this?

1. Daredevil (Seasons 1-3, 2015-2018)
2. Jessica Jones (Seasons 1-3, 2015-2019)
3. The Defenders (Season 1, 2017)
4. The Punisher (Seasons 1-2, 2017-2019)
5. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
6. She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (Series, 2022)
7. Echo (2024)
8. Daredevil: Born Again (Season 1, 2025)

 

#79 // The Punisher: One Last Kill

Disney+ Special (2026)

TV-MA | 48 min
RT: 73% / 78% | IMDb: 7.0

Synopsis: Frank Castle retreats from violence after years of loss, but a criminal bounty drags him back into a brutal fight that forces him to confront what remains of his purpose.

Why this placement? Release order, and story-wise it is set just before the events of Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Technically, the majority of this story runs concurrent to Daredevil: Born Again (Season 2), but it fits just fine here.

Is this optional? Pretty much. It’s a nice reintroduction to the Punisher, and he even makes his big screen debut in the next Spider-Man film, but this is a self-contained story.

What should I watch before this?

1. The Punisher (Seasons 1-2, 2017-2019)
2. Daredevil: Born Again (Season 1, 2025)

 

#80 // Spider-Man: Brand New Day

Film (2026)

PG-13 | 2 hr 25 min
RT: 90% / 97% | IMDb: 8.0

Synopsis: A forgotten Peter Parker lives alone as a full-time Spider-Man until mounting pressure triggers a dangerous change and a powerful new enemy emerges.

Why this placement? Release order, the final film leading into Avengers: Doomsday.

Is this optional? What is this, a joke? You need to watch this at least three times in a row.

What should I watch before this?

1. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
2. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
3. The Defenders (Season 1, 2017) – Optional – There is a group featured in this movie that was previously featured in this series. However, it really has only a minor connection to this movie. 
4. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
5. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
6. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
7. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

 

#81 // VisionQuest (Upcoming)

Disney+ Series (2026)

TV-14 | Watch Time TBD
RT: –% / –% | IMDb: -.-

Synopsis: Serving as the third series in a trilogy that began with WandaVision, in this series, Vision is faced with many challenges while trying to regain his memory and humanity.

Why this placement? Release order.

Is this optional? This remains to be seen. White Vision’s future in the MCU at large is in question, though we may find out more by the time this series airs. However, based on a certain secondary character’s arc, I’m assuming we’ll see more of him in the near future (possibly with the Young Avengers). So, as it sits right now, I would recommend watching this, though it might not be mandatory in the long run.

What should I watch before this?

1. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
2. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
3. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
4. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
5. WandaVision (Series, 2021)
6. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
7. Agatha All Along (Series, 2024)

 

#82 // Avengers: Doomsday (Upcoming)

Film (2026)

PG-13 | 2 hr 45 min
RT: –% / –% | IMDb: -.-

Synopsis: Heroes from three different worlds must unite when they’re thrust together to confront a catastrophic danger that could destroy everything they know.

Why this placement? Release order.

Is this optional? No, this is going to be the beginning of the end for this Multiverse Saga and will lead into Avengers: Secret Wars.

What should I watch before this?

This list starts with the official watchlist provided by Marvel Studios/Disney Plus for those gearing up for Doomsday, with our own educated guesses added. It is also likely there are secrets not revealed yet in the trailers that will eventually add to this list.

1. X-Men (2000)
2. X2: X-Men United (2003)
3. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
4. The Avengers (2012)
5. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
6. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
7. Loki (Season 1, 2021)
8. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
9. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
10. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
11. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
12. Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)
13. Captain America: Brave New World (2025)
14. Thunderbolts* (2025)
15. The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025)
16. Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026)

 

MORE COMING SOON!

Partially Canon Movies & Series

Most of these projects either predate the MCU, or were released alongside it, and have since been acknowledged or referenced in official MCU titles, confirming them as parallel universes within the wider multiverse. However, while their existence as alternate realities is now canon, we don’t treat their full timelines as officially part of this watch order list. Some of these entries are on this list for being so far removed from the main MCU that they have no bearing on it, currently.

 

Blade (1998)

Synopsis: A half-mortal, half-immortal is out to avenge his mother’s death and rid the world of vampires. The modern-day technologically advanced vampires he is going after are in search of his special blood type needed to summon an evil god who plays a key role in their plan to execute the human race.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe long before the MCU began. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe as revealed in Deadpool & Wolverine.

 

X-Men (2000)

Synopsis: They are children of the atom, homo superior, the next link in the chain of evolution. Each was born with a unique genetic mutation, which at puberty manifested itself in extraordinary powers. In a world filled with hate and prejudice, they are feared by those who cannot accept their differences. Led by Xavier the X-Men fight to protect a world that fears them. They are locked in a battle with former colleague and friend, Magneto who believes humans and mutants should never co-exist.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe long before the MCU began. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe, and this was teased at the end of The Marvels and much of the cast as been confirmed for Avengers: Doomsday.

 

Spider-Man (2002)

Synopsis: “Spider-Man” centers on student Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire) who, after being bitten by a genetically-altered spider, gains superhuman strength and the spider-like ability to cling to any surface. He vows to use his abilities to fight crime, coming to understand the words of his beloved Uncle Ben: “With great power comes great responsibility.”

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe long before the MCU began. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe, and this Spider-Man was brought into Spider-Man: No Way Home.

 

Blade II (2002)

Synopsis: Exploding from the pages of Marvel Comics comes the thrilling follow-up to the blockbuster “Blade.” Half Man … half vampire, and consumed by a desire to avenge the curse of his birth and save the human race from a blood-drenched Armageddon. In this newest action-packed adventure, Blade (Wesley Snipes) is forced to team up with the very vampires he hates in order to overcome a new type of monster which threatens to eradicate both races.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe long before the MCU began. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe as revealed in Deadpool & Wolverine.

 

X2: X-Men United (2003)

Synopsis: Stryker (Brian Cox), a villianous former Army commander, holds the key to Wolverine’s (Hugh Jackman) past and the future of the X-Men. This threat re-ignites the call for a mutant registration act. Stryker starts a full-out assault on Professor Xavier’s (Patrick Stewart) mansion and school. After escaping his plastic cell, Magneto (Ian McKellen) proposes a partnership with Xavier and the X-Men to combat this new formidable enemy they both have in common.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe long before the MCU began. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe, and this was teased at the end of The Marvels and much of the cast as been confirmed for Avengers: Doomsday.

 

Daredevil (2003)

Synopsis: Attorney Matt Murdock (Ben Affleck) is blind, but his other four senses function with superhuman sharpness. By day, Murdock represents the downtrodden. At night, he is Daredevil, a masked vigilante, a relentless avenger of justice. When Wilson Fisk (Michael Clarke Duncan) hires Bullseye (Colin Farrell) to kill Daredevil, Murdock must rely on his own senses and search out the conspirators against justice — which may include his own girlfriend, Elektra (Jennifer Garner).

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe with characters owned by Fox. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe as revealed in Deadpool & Wolverine.

 

Blade: Trinity (2004)

Synopsis: The war between humans and vampires continues, but the humans’ best hope, human-vampire hybrid warrior Blade (Wesley Snipes), has been framed for countless murders, turning popular sentiment against him. The vampire leader responsible for Blade’s bad publicity is Danica Talos (Parker Posey), who’s determined to finally lead her bloodthirsty compatriots to victory. Now Blade must team up with a band of rogue vampire hunters (Ryan Reynolds, Jessica Biel) to save humanity.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe long before the MCU began. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe as revealed in Deadpool & Wolverine.

 

Spider-Man 2 (2004)

Synopsis: When a failed nuclear fusion experiment results in an explosion that kills his wife, Dr. Otto Octavius (Alfred Molina) is transformed into Dr. Octopus, a cyborg with deadly metal tentacles. Doc Ock blames Spider-Man (Tobey Maguire) for the accident and seeks revenge. Meanwhile, Spidey’s alter ego, Peter Parker, faces fading powers and self-doubt. Complicating matters are his best friend’s (James Franco) hatred for Spider-Man and his true love’s (Kirsten Dunst) sudden engagement to another man.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe long before the MCU began. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe, and this Spider-Man was brought into Spider-Man: No Way Home.

 

Elektra (2006)

Synopsis: Assassin-for-hire Elektra (Jennifer Garner) works for a mysterious international organization known as the Hand, for which she kills her targets without question, and in a conspicuous red bustier, no less. When the Hand asks her to kill Mark Miller (Goran Visnjic) and his daughter, Abby (Kirsten Prout), while they’re on holiday, Elektra’s conscience kicks in and she decides to protect her targets rather than eliminate them. Of course, the Hand isn’t so willing to let them off the hook.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe with characters owned by Fox. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe as revealed in Deadpool & Wolverine.

 

X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)

Synopsis: The discovery of a cure for mutations leads to a turning point for Mutants (Hugh Jackman, Halle Berry, Famke Janssen, Anna Paquin, Rebecca Romijn, Kelsey Grammer). They may now choose to give up their powers and become fully human or retain their uniqueness and remain isolated. War looms between the followers of Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart), who preaches tolerance, and those of Magneto (Ian McKellen), who advocates survival of the fittest.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe long before the MCU began. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe, and this was teased at the end of The Marvels and much of the cast as been confirmed for Avengers: Doomsday.

 

Spider-Man 3 (2007)

Synopsis: Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire) and M.J. (Kirsten Dunst) seem to finally be on the right track in their complicated relationship, but trouble looms for the superhero and his lover. Peter’s Spider-Man suit turns black and takes control of him, not only giving Peter enhanced power but also bringing out the dark side of his personality. Peter must overcome the suit’s influence as two supervillains, Sandman and Venom, rise up to destroy him and all those he holds dear.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe long before the MCU began. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe, and this Spider-Man was brought into Spider-Man: No Way Home.

 

X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)

Synopsis: Seeking solace from his dark past, Logan (Hugh Jackman), better known as Wolverine, seems to have found love and contentment with Kayla Silverfox (Lynn Collins). Logan’s peaceful existence is shattered when Victor Creed (Liev Schreiber), his vicious brother, brutally murders Kayla. Logan’s thirst for revenge propels him into the Weapon X program, where he undergoes a painful procedure to bond his bones with adamantium, making him virtually indestructible and more than a match for Victor.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe as the MCU was just getting started. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe as revealed in Deadpool & Wolverine.

 

The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)

Synopsis: Abandoned by his parents and raised by an aunt and uncle, teenager Peter Parker, AKA Spider-Man, is trying to sort out who he is and exactly what his feelings are for his first crush, Gwen Stacy. When Peter finds a mysterious briefcase that was his father’s, he pursues a quest to solve his parents’ disappearance. His search takes him to Oscorp and the lab of Dr. Curt Connors, setting him on a collision course with Connors’ alter ego, the Lizard.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe as the MCU was in it’s early stages. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe, and this Spider-Man was brought into Spider-Man: No Way Home.

 

The Wolverine (2009)

Synopsis: Lured to a Japan he hasn’t seen since World War II, century-old mutant Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) finds himself in a shadowy realm of yakuza and samurai. Wolverine is pushed to his physical and emotional brink when he is forced to go on the run with a powerful industrialist’s daughter (Tao Okamoto) and is confronted — for the first time — with the prospect of death. As he struggles to rediscover the hero within himself, he must grapple with powerful foes and the ghosts of his own haunted past.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe as the MCU was just getting started. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe as revealed in Deadpool & Wolverine.

 

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014)

Synopsis: Greater conflict lies ahead for Spider-Man, with the emergence of Electro, a foe far more powerful than he is and the return of his old friend, Harry Osborn.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe as the MCU was in it’s early stages. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe, and this Spider-Man was brought into Spider-Man: No Way Home.

 

Deadpool (2016)

Synopsis: Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds) is a former Special Forces operative who now works as a mercenary. His world comes crashing down when evil scientist Ajax (Ed Skrein) tortures, disfigures and transforms him into Deadpool. The rogue experiment leaves Deadpool with accelerated healing powers and a twisted sense of humor. With help from mutant allies Colossus and Negasonic Teenage Warhead (Brianna Hildebrand), Deadpool uses his new skills to hunt down the man who nearly destroyed his life.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe with characters owned by Fox. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe as revealed in Deadpool & Wolverine.

 

Logan (2017)

Synopsis: In the near future, a weary Logan (Hugh Jackman) cares for an ailing Professor X (Patrick Stewart) at a remote outpost on the Mexican border. His plan to hide from the outside world gets upended when he meets a young mutant (Dafne Keen) who is very much like him. Logan must now protect the girl and battle the dark forces that want to capture her.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe as the MCU was just getting started. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe as revealed in Deadpool & Wolverine.

 

Deadpool (2018)

Synopsis: Wisecracking mercenary Deadpool meets Russell, an angry teenage mutant who lives at an orphanage. When Russell becomes the target of Cable — a genetically enhanced soldier from the future — Deadpool realizes that he’ll need some help saving the boy from such a superior enemy. He soon joins forces with Bedlam, Shatterstar, Domino and other powerful mutants to protect young Russell from Cable and his advanced weaponry.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe with characters owned by Fox. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe as revealed in Deadpool & Wolverine.

 

Venom (2018)

Synopsis: Journalist Eddie Brock is trying to take down Carlton Drake, the notorious and brilliant founder of the Life Foundation. While investigating one of Drake’s experiments, Eddie’s body merges with the alien Venom — leaving him with superhuman strength and power. Twisted, dark and fueled by rage, Venom tries to control the new and dangerous abilities that Eddie finds so intoxicating.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe of movies with characters owned by Sony. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe, and this Venom was brought into Spider-Man: No Way Home.

 

Helstrom (2020)

Synopsis: Daimon and Ana Helstrom are the son and daughter of a mysterious and powerful serial killer. The siblings have a complicated dynamic as they track down the terrorizing worst of humanity – each with their attitude and skills.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? Though technically a part of the MCU, is so far removed from the actual story being told, that we have purposefully left it off of the main list. Helstrom was intentionally separated from the MCU completely, and since it has been canceled with no plans to revive the concept or characters, this may as well not exist.

 

Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2021)

Synopsis: Tom Hardy returns to the big screen as the lethal protector Venom, one of MARVEL’s greatest and most complex characters.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe of movies with characters owned by Sony. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe, and this Venom was brought into Spider-Man: No Way Home.

 

I Am Groot (2022-2023)

Synopsis: A series of shorts featuring the seedling Groot along with several new and unusual characters.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? I Am Groot has been left off the main list, as it is mainly a Minions-esque low-hanging-fruit attention-grabber kids show, and is not canon to the GOTG story or the MCU.

 

Venom: The Last Dance (2024)

Synopsis: In Venom: The Last Dance, Tom Hardy returns as Venom, one of Marvel’s greatest and most complex characters, for the final film in the trilogy. Eddie and Venom are on the run. Hunted by both of their worlds and with the net closing in, the duo are forced into a devastating decision that will bring the curtains down on Venom and Eddie’s last dance.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? This was set in its own universe of movies with characters owned by Sony. However, it has been confirmed to be a parallel reality to the MCU universe, and this Venom was brought into Spider-Man: No Way Home.

 

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man (2025)

Synopsis: The animated series follows Peter Parker on his way to becoming Spider-Man, with a journey unlike we’ve ever seen and a style that celebrates the character’s early comic book roots.

Why is this “Partially Canon”? While this was originally planned to tell the origins of the MCU Spider-Man, it was retooled to be in a parallel universe in order to give the series more room to grow. This is not official MCU canon (though it is heavily inspired-by it), but it may come into play someday.

 

Notes:

1. All Sony-exclusive “Spider-Verse” films have been left off this list, as they have never been considered canon to the MCU, despite some crossover.
2. X-Men ’97 doesn’t appear to be canon to MCU at this time, so it is also left off the list. Should this change, we’ll update the list.

---

LTN Watch-Order List

Mainline story is in bold.

1. Iron Man (2008)
2. The Incredible Hulk (2008)
3. Iron Man 2 (2010)
4. The Consultant (One Shot, 2011)
5. A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Thor’s Hammer (One Shot, 2011)
6. Thor (2011)
7. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
8. The Avengers (2012)
9. Item 47 (One Shot, 2012)
10. Iron Man 3 (2013)
11. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (Seasons 1-7, 2013-2020)
12. Thor: The Dark World (2013)
13. Agent Carter (One Shot, 2013)
14. Captain America: The Winter Solider (2014)
15. All Hail the King (One Shot, 2014)
16. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
17. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
18. Daredevil (Seasons 1-3, 2015-2018)
19. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
20. Jessica Jones (Seasons 1-3, 2015-2019)
21. Ant-Man (2015)
22. Luke Cage (Seasons 1-2, 2016-2018)
23. Doctor Strange (2016)
24. Iron Fist (Seasons 1-2, 2017-2018)
25. The Defenders (Series, 2017)
26. The Punisher (Seasons 1-2, 2017-2019)
27. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
28. Team Thor (One Shot, 2016)
29. Team Thor: Part 2 (One Shot, 2017)
30. Inhumans (Series, 2017)
31. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
32. Runaways (Seasons 1-3, 2017-2019)
33. Black Panther (2018)
34. Cloak & Dagger (Seasons 1-2, 2018-2019)
35. Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
36. Black Widow (2021)
37. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
38. Team Darryl (One Shot, 2018)
39. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
40. Captain Marvel (2019)
41. Agent Carter (Seasons 1-2, 2015-2016)
42. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
43. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
44. WandaVision (Series, 2021)
45. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (Series, 2021)
46. Loki (Season 1, 2021)
47. What If…? (Season 1, 2021)
48. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
49. Eternals (2021)
50. Hawkeye (Series, 2021)
51. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
52. Moon Knight (Series, 2022)
53. She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (Series, 2022)
54. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
55. Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)
56. Werewolf By Night (Special, 2022)
57. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
58. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)
59. The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (Special, 2022)
60. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
61. Secret Invasion (Series, 2023)
62. Ms. Marvel (Series, 2022)
63. The Marvels (2023)
64. Loki (Season 2, 2023)
65. What If…? (Season 2, 2023)
66. Echo (2024)
67. Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)
68. Agatha All Along (Series, 2024)
69. What If…? (Season 3, 2024)
70. Captain America: Brave New World (2025)
71. Daredevil: Born Again (Season 1, 2025)
72. Thunderbolts* (2025)
73. Ironheart (Season 1, 2025)
74. The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025)
75. Eyes of Wakanda (Season 1, 2025)
76. Marvel Zombies (Season 1, 2025)
77. Wonder Man (Season 1, 2026)
78. Daredevil: Born Again (Season 2, 2026)
79. The Punisher: One Last Kill (Special, 2026)
80. Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026)
81. VisionQuest (Series, 2026)
82. Avengers: Doomsday (2026)

Original Release Order

Mainline story is in bold.

1. Iron Man (May 2008)
2. The Incredible Hulk (June 2008)
3. Iron Man 2 (April 2010)
4. Thor (April 2011)
5. Captain America: The First Avenger (July 2011)
6. The Consultant (One Shot, September 2011)
7. A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Thor’s Hammer (One Shot, October 2011)
8. The Avengers (April 2012)
9. Item 47 (One Shot, September 2012)
10. Iron Man 3 (April 2013)
11. Agent Carter (One Shot, September 2013)
12. Agents of SHIELD (Season 1, September 2013 – May 2014)
13. Thor: The Dark World (November 2013)
14. All Hail the King (One Shot, February 2014)
15. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (March 2014)
16. Guardians of the Galaxy (July 2014)
17. Agents of SHIELD (Season 2, September 2014 – May 2015)
18. Agent Carter (Season 1, January 2015 – February 2015)
19. Daredevil (Season 1, April 2015)
20. Avengers: Age of Ultron (April 2015)
21. Ant-Man (July 2015)
22. Agents of SHIELD (Season 3, September 2015 – May 2016)
23. Jessica Jones (Season 1, November 2015)
24. Agent Carter (Season 2, January 2016 – February 2016)
25. Daredevil (Season 2, March 2016)
26. Captain America: Civil War (April 2016)
27. Team Thor (One Shot, August 2016)
28. Agents of SHIELD (Season 4, September 2016 – May 2017)
29. Luke Cage (Season 1, September 2016)
30. Doctor Strange (October 2016)
31. Team Thor: Part 2 (One Shot, February 2017)
32. Iron Fist (Season 1, March 2017)
33. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 (April 2017)
34. Spider-Man: Homecoming (July 2017)
35. The Defenders (Season 1, August 2017)
36. Inhumans (Season 1, September 2017 – November 2017)
37. Thor: Ragnarok (October 2017)
38. The Punisher (Season 1, November 2017)
39. Runaways (Season 1, November 2017 – January 2018)
40. Agents of SHIELD (Season 5, December 2017 – May 2018)
41. Black Panther (February 2018)
42. Team Darryl (One Shot, February 2018)
43. Jessica Jones (Season 2, March 2018)
44. Avengers: Infinity War (April 2018)
45. Cloak & Dagger (Season 1, June 2018 – August 2018)
46. Luke Cage (Season 2, June 2018)
47. Ant-Man and the Wasp (July 2018)
48. Iron Fist (Season 2, September 2018)
49. Daredevil (Season 3, October 2018)
50. Runaways (Season 2, December 2018)
51. The Punisher (Season 2, January 2019)
52. Captain Marvel (March 2019)
53. Cloak & Dagger (Season 2, April 2019 – May 2019)
54. Avengers: Endgame (April 2019)
55. Agents of SHIELD (Season 6, May 2019 – August 2019)
56. Jessica Jones (Season 3, June 2019)
57. Spider-Man: Far From Home (July 2019)
58. Runaways (Season 3, December 2019)
59. Agents of SHIELD (Season 7, May 2020 – August 2020)
60. WandaVision (January 2021 – March 2021)
61. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (March 2021 – April 2021)
62. Loki (June 2021 – July 2021)
63. Black Widow (July 2021)
64. What If…? (Season 1, August 2021 – October 2021)
65. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (September 2021)
66. Eternals (November 2021)
67. Hawkeye (November 2021 – December 2021)
68. Spider-Man: No Way Home (December 2021)
69. Moon Knight (March 2022 – May 2022)
70. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (May 2022)
71. Ms Marvel (June 2022 – July 2022)
72. Thor: Love and Thunder (July 2022)
73. I Am Groot (Season 1, August 2022)
74. She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (August 2022 – October 2022)
75. Werewolf By Night (October 2022)
76. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (November 2022)
77. The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (November 2022)
78. Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania (February 2023)
79. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 (May 2023)
80. Secret Invasion (June 2023 – July 2023)
81. I Am Groot (Season 2, September 2023)
82. Loki (Season 2, October 2023 – November 2023)
83. The Marvels (November 2023)
84. What If…? (Season 2, December 2023)
85. Echo (January 2024)
86. Deadpool & Wolverine (July 2024)
87. Agatha All Along (September 2024 – October 2024)
88. What If…? (Season 3, December 2024)
89. Captain America: Brave New World (February 2025)
90. Daredevil: Born Again (Season 1, March 2025 – April 2025)
91. Thunderbolts* (May 2025)
92. Ironheart (Season 1, June 2025 – July 2025)
93. The Fantastic Four: First Steps (July 2025)
94. Eyes of Wakanda (August 2025)
95. Marvel Zombies (September 2025)
96. Wonder Man (Season 1, January 2026)
97. Daredevil: Born Again (Season 2, 2026)
98. The Punisher: One Last Kill (Special, 2026)
99. Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026)
100. VisionQuest (Series, 2026)
101. Avengers: Doomsday (2026)

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Last Updated: October 9, 2026
All images used in this article are courtesy of Marvel Studios.