Introduction
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has taken the world by storm since its inception in 2008 with the release of Iron Man. With over 20 movies and counting, the MCU has become a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its thrilling action, engaging characters, and complex storylines. However, with so many movies and TV shows in the franchise, it can be tough to know where to start or what order to watch them in. In this article, we will guide you through the MCU timeline order in 2023, so you can experience the epic journey of the MCU in the best possible way.
The Chronological Order
The chronological order of the MCU timeline starts with Captain America: The First Avenger, which is set during World War II. The movie introduces us to Steve Rogers, a scrawny young man who wants to serve his country but is repeatedly rejected because of his physical limitations. However, he is given a chance to become a super-soldier and leads the fight against the evil forces of Hydra. The next movie in the timeline is Captain Marvel, which is set in the 1990s and follows the story of Carol Danvers, a former U.S. Air Force pilot who becomes the most powerful superhero in the universe. This movie sets up the backstory of the Skrulls, who become important later in the timeline. The next few movies follow the events after the first Avengers movie. Iron Man 3, Thor: The Dark World, and Captain America: The Winter Soldier all take place in 2013. These movies show the aftermath of the Battle of New York and how the Avengers are dealing with the consequences.
Phase Three
Phase Three of the MCU timeline starts with Captain America: Civil War, which is set in 2016. This movie sees the Avengers split into two factions, with Captain America leading one side and Iron Man leading the other. The movie sets up the conflict that leads to the events of Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame. The next few movies in Phase Three take place before the events of Infinity War. Black Panther, Doctor Strange, and Spider-Man: Homecoming all take place in 2016-2017. These movies introduce new characters and expand on the MCU’s world-building.
The Cosmic Side
The cosmic side of the MCU timeline starts with Guardians of the Galaxy, which is set in 2014. This movie introduces us to a group of misfit heroes who come together to save the galaxy from the threat of Ronan the Accuser. The movie sets up the backstory of the Infinity Stones, which become important later in the timeline. The next cosmic movie is Thor: Ragnarok, which is set in 2017. This movie sees Thor team up with the Hulk and other heroes to stop the destruction of Asgard by Hela, the goddess of death. The movie sets up the events of Infinity War and introduces us to the Grandmaster, who becomes important later in the timeline.
The Endgame
Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame are the culmination of the MCU timeline so far. Infinity War sees the Avengers and their allies battling the mad titan Thanos, who seeks to wipe out half of all life in the universe. Endgame picks up after the devastating events of Infinity War and sees the remaining Avengers trying to reverse the damage done by Thanos.
The Release Order
Many fans prefer to watch the MCU movies in the order they were released. This allows for a more organic viewing experience and lets you see how the franchise evolved over time. The release order of the MCU movies is as follows: 1. Iron Man (2008) 2. The Incredible Hulk (2008) 3. Iron Man 2 (2010) 4. Thor (2011) 5. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011) 6. The Avengers (2012) 7. Iron Man 3 (2013) 8. Thor: The Dark World (2013) 9. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014) 10. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) 11. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) 12. Ant-Man (2015) 13. Captain America: Civil War (2016) 14. Doctor Strange (2016) 15. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017) 16. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) 17. Thor: Ragnarok (2017) 18. Black Panther (2018) 19. Avengers: Infinity War (2018) 20. Ant-Man and The Wasp (2018) 21. Captain Marvel (2019) 22. Avengers: Endgame (2019) 23. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
Conclusion
The MCU timeline order in 2023 can be confusing, but with this guide, you can experience the epic journey of the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the best possible way. Whether you choose to watch the movies in chronological or release order, the MCU is a franchise that continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling action, engaging characters, and complex storylines. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!
