The Marvel Cinematic Universe is building toward its biggest crossover yet. From new Avengers: Doomsday footage featuring the Fantastic Four, the Thunderbolts, the X-Men, Deadpool and several familiar Avengers to the announcement of a Ghost Rider movie starring Ryan Gosling and the confirmation of Black Panther 3, there’s plenty for Marvel fans to look forward to. But if you’ve been away from the MCU, catching up can feel daunting. What began with Iron Man has expanded into a sprawling franchise of more than 50 movies, live-action and animated series, and specials spanning Earth, space, magic and the Multiverse. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time viewer preparing for Avengers: Doomsday, this guide breaks down the essential Marvel movies and series to watch—in the right order.
What to watch: Your definitive MCU watch guide before Avengers: Doomsday1. Birth of the Avengers
Movies that introduce the original heroes and lay the foundation of the MCU.
Captain America: The First AvengerCaptain MarvelIron ManIron Man 2The Incredible HulkThorThe Avengers2. The MCU expands
The Avengers grow stronger as new heroes, magical forces and cosmic threats expand the MCU beyond Earth.
Iron Man 3Thor: The Dark WorldCaptain America: The Winter SoldierGuardians of the GalaxyGuardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2Avengers: Age of UltronAnt-ManCaptain America: Civil WarBlack WidowBlack PantherSpider-Man: HomecomingDoctor StrangeThor: Ragnarok