The Marvel Cinematic Universe from Marvel Studios is a hugely successful cinematic universe that now boasts 26 movies, not to mention the multiple Disney+ shows, alongside the other expanded material which sits in a difficult position canonically. It's absolutely a daunting series to get started on.
As it becomes more popular there will be plenty of fans who want to jump into the MCU for the first time but don't know where to start. Whether it's based on the watch order, what to expect from the long-term storytelling, how this series is organized or where the TV shows stand in all of this, these tips should certainly help out newcomers.
It Comes In Phases
It's important to know and understand that the Marvel Universe has actually been organized into separate phases, each of which brings something totally unique to audiences. The MCU is currently on its fourth phase, but the initial phase was based on the origins of these extraordinary characters.
The second phase was about continuing their journey, while the third phase was focused on concluding the Infinity Saga, with many major characters facing off against Thanos. That overall narrative arc can be found in each of these phases, with the Infinity Stones scattered across the various films. It's unclear when the fourth phase will finish.
The Watch Order
There's a lot of debate on how to watch the MCU. So many differing opinions can become confusing. The release date order follows the formula of the phases so that the narrative unfolds as Marvel Studios initially intended. This is a great way to start but there is arguably a better system.
It's possible that watching these stories in chronological order could actually be more effective. The likes of Captain Marvel would be introduced much earlier so her eventual return is a bigger deal, while Captain America really can become the First Avenger, kicking off the MCU. Watching in the order of each franchise can become a little confusing when a crossover occurs.
The Sony Debacle
Marvel Studios and The Walt Disney Company now have the rights to almost every major character from Marvel Comics. There is only one studio left with any say in the big screen usage of a character and that is Sony, who continues to own Spider-Man and associated characters.
This can become quite confusing as Sony is also producing its own Marvel Universe which includes famous anti-heroes like Venom and Morbius. Luckily, things are about to become far less complicated as it appears these universes are merging. The most important thing to know here is that for the first time, all of Marvel's characters are free to play in the same sandbox and all of Sony's movies are part of the Mutliverse.
Netflix, ABC, And Other Series
Marvel Entertainment has produced multiple shows with other broadcasters such as Hulu, ABC and Netflix, each of which has made mention to the larger MCU. Whether it's Cloak and Dagger or Runaways or perhaps Daredevil and Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. the fate of these series is currently unknown.
It's largely considered that the ABC shows of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Agent Carter are considered to be canon. As of right now, the rest are potentially outside of the timeline. With rumors circulating that Charlie Cox could return as the devil of Hell's Kitchen in Spider-Man: No Way Home, the continuity might be shaken up once more. Ultimately no one wants to see these Marvel characters re-cast but the shows aren't a necessary watch despite how fun they are.
Reading The Comics
The comics are the ultimate source of all things Marvel and when launching into the MCU it's definitely important to do some reading as well. The comics have the space to go into much deeper detail in regards to these iconic characters and many of the stories on the page have made their way to the screen.
What has to be kept in mind though is that the continuity of the comics is completely different from the big screen. There are actually some major changes; the line-up of the original Avengers is a prime example of that. Plus this is a universe where Mutants stand side-by-side with sorcerers, vampires, and aliens, which is a combination that hasn't been quite achieved in the MCU yet.
Surprising Returns
No character should ever be ruled out of the MCU, even if they seem insignificant upon a first watch. Fans have gravitated towards some of the best supporting roles from across the universe, with these villains and heroes having expanded arcs moving forward.
Death is never the end and just because a character like Darcy Lewis or the Red Skull hasn't been around for a while, it doesn't mean they won't be important once again. Ultimately, it's important to pay attention to each role as some characters may make unexpected returns or become integral to the wider MCU.
The Disney+ Shows
The MCU has recently expanded thanks to the debut of Disney+ and multiple shows on the streaming platform such as Loki, WandaVision, and What If...? These series are actually vital for understanding the rest of the universe and have introduced some fan-favorite Marvel characters.
Unfortunately, anyone looking to get started on the MCU will have to invest in a subscription to the platform (although this is the easiest way to access the films as well). The Multiverse in particular is getting largely explained on the small screen which will have ramifications in canon for other movies.
Marvel Legacy
Marvel Studios were not the first filmmakers to bring the comics to life in cinemas. The likes of Sony, Fox and Universal have previously attempted to adapt these characters to mixed success. Disney now owns almost all of these previous franchises.
Right now they are categorized as part of the Marvel Legacy line and are not in canon with the MCU. But newcomers should be wary that this could change. Spider-Man: No Way Home is already bringing the previous web-head series into the MCU thanks to the use of the Multiverse and WandaVision has teased a version of Quicksilver from Fox's X-Men line.
Diverse Genres
The Marvel Cinematic Universe is often associated with a formula and this could put off newer viewers. But Marvel Studios have actually created a diverse range of movies that pull from all sorts of genres. There's really something for everyone in the franchise.
Whether it's a space epic like Guardians Of The Galaxy, a fantasy and martial arts mix such as Shang-Chi, or perhaps an espionage thriller like Captain America: The Winter Soldier, it's difficult to argue that all of these projects are exactly the same. Sometimes the best place to start is within a familiar genre.
Joining The Family
The Marvel Universe feels like a big family when it comes to its cast. A large part of being a fan of this franchise happens to coincide with being a fan of the people behind the roles. Well at least for the majority of those obsessed with the MCU.
Whether it's through social media, comic con, or Graham Norton interviews, the cast of the MCU have endeared themselves to fans and indeed built up ongoing jokes. For example, the mocking of Tom Holland from the likes of Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie, and Benedict Cumberbatch is absolutely hilarious. Diving into all this good content is a huge part of leaping into the Marvel Cinematic Universe.