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The Marvel Cinematic Universe: Phase One Films Ranked

What's your favourite Marvel film? Take a look at this ranking!

By Craig HousePublished 5 years ago 4 min read
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The MCU is an absolute behemoth of comic book superhero storytelling. Starting in 2008 with Iron Man, the film series consists of 22 films and has collected over $21 billion at the box office. Split into three "phases," the three different sections document the beginning, middle, and end of what has colloquially become known as the "Infinity Saga." So taking a look at Phase One, which films hold up? Which ones are still a great watch? And which ones feel out of place in the current cinematic universe? Well let’s take a look shall we?

6. The Incredible Hulk

Unfortunately, the most forgettable of all the MCU films. Coming out only a month after the much-acclaimed Iron Man, it got lost in its shadow. It also tends to be forgotten due to the fact it was the second Hulk film to come out in five years after Ang Lee’s attempt in 2003. Also, in universe-building terms, the film hasn’t aged well. Of the four key players in this film (Bruce Banner, Thaddeus Ross, Betty Ross, and Emil Blonsky); Banner was re-cast, Thaddeus isn’t seen again for another eight years, and the other two haven’t been seen on screen since.

Now that you’ve remembered this film exists within the universe, perhaps it’s worth a rewatch? Promo Codes For currently have some great offers on DVDs and Blu-Rays from places such as Xtra-vision and Simply Home Entertainment.

5. Thor

This one introduced us to the norse god himself and the off-world side to the MCU. In the Kenneth Branagh-directed film, we’re introduced to the mysticism of Asgard and the stellar performances from the all-star cast. We also see, for the first time, the mischievous Loki, as well as the effortlessly cool Hawkeye. However, the story itself is quite formulaic, despite it being a fun enough ride.

4. Iron Man 2

It was a tricky decision between which ranked higher, this or Thor. I’ve pipped for this one however due to the first appearance of Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow and the first proper introduction of Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury. The story probably isn’t as fresh as Iron Man, as it was a lot to live up to. However, the film is a fun, action-packed adventure.

3. Captain America: The First Avenger

This was the first Marvel film that wasn’t primarily set in the present day. Going back all the way to the Second World War, the film was a bold move considering the previous four films were universe-building in the present day, setting the Avengers film up. Going back in time allowed the filmmakers to flesh out the history of the MCU, such as featuring a younger version of Howard Stark, who had featured in video footage in Iron Man 2. It was a risk that paid off, and the universe felt more whole, and the character of Captain America was perfectly introduced to lead into the fantastic Phase One team-up finale.

2. Iron Man

The one that started it all off. When you now look at where the MCU is now, it’s almost inconceivable that it started with this—a film that was a huge gamble for Marvel, who had to sell off half their characters' film rights to stay afloat only a few years previously. Now, here they were, launching their own independent production feature with Robert Downey Jr., who was probably best known before that for his personal problems than any of his acting jobs. And somehow, they pulled it off. Joe.ie have revealed a few facts you may not know about the first Iron Man movie.

1. The Avengers

The don. This was the film that threw the Marvel Cinematic Universe into the mainstream, bringing together all the characters introduced in the previous five films in the past four years. It set the benchmark for cinematic universe building that many have tried (Looking at you, Justice League), but ultimately failed to live up to. The film will forever be remembered for this moment.

So do you agree with this list? Maybe this article has sparked an overwhelming urge to go and re-visit all these films to see if you concur with my decisions. Binge them in a single day, I dare you.

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About the Creator

Craig House

Creative entrepreneur, freelance designer and all round business savvy youth.

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