10 Best Pre-Disney+ Marvel TV Shows

As a lifelong Marvel fan who has spent countless hours immersed in their universe, I can confidently say that these shows have significantly shaped my appreciation for the genre. From the groundbreaking “X-Men: The Animated Series” that paved the way for live-action movies, to the long-running “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D,” each series offers a unique perspective on the Marvel world.

Since Disney+ debuted in 2019, it has given Marvel enthusiasts an unprecedented level of comfort by hosting all shows based on their beloved comic brand. The platform’s introduction even prompted Marvel Studios to develop a number of new shows, with the intention of expanding their collection. Although some have been well-received, many have been merely average, causing fans to ponder if the quality was higher when various production companies were handling the heroes.

A glance at the time before Disney+ reveals that, in fact, there were numerous top-notch Marvel series. Despite not having Disney’s massive financial resources, these shows boasted engaging plots and excellent acting performances. Many of them also weren’t tightly connected to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, making them attractive to a broader audience who didn’t plan on consuming everything else from the universe.

You’ll be glad to know that many of these series have been moved to Disney+, meaning fans of the past can enjoy them again without having to endure the new ones. So if you yearn for the good old days, you can now do so comfortably.

10 Legion (2017 – 2019)

In a different reality of the X-Men universe from Fox, I find myself immersed in the captivating series known as Legion. As a boy, I was labeled with schizophrenia, but my condition isn’t merely a curse. I possess extraordinary psychic powers, such as telekinesis, telepathy, and teleportation. The storyline is filled with turbulence, primarily stirred by the government agency Division 3, yet amidst the chaos, I strive for normalcy in this vibrant, multi-award-nominated show that keeps me on the edge of my seat.

A Detailed Study of Mental Health

In Legion, there’s no shortage of enjoyment to be found. This is because it originates from the creative mind of Noah Hawley, who also brought us Fargo. The series offers a delightful peek into the Marvel universe, with the typical amusement park-style spectacle taking a back seat to an affectionate examination of mental health issues, innovative exploration of superhero themes, and character development. With dance battles between heroes and villains, for example, the show exhibits a self-indulgence that was perhaps a bit ahead of its time.

In addition, a significant focus lies on individuality. To illustrate, characters like Jean Grey from X-Men: The Last Stand, Jason Stryker from X2, and Charles Xavier in Logan – all telepaths dealing with mental health issues within the X-Men universe – were often medicated. However, in this case, an alternative approach to treatment is applied instead.

9 Luke Cage (2016 – 2018)

Luke Cage features Mike Colter as a former inmate who gains extraordinary strength and indestructible skin following an accidental lab experiment. Subsequently, he decides to lay low in Harlem, aiming to both evade detection and exonerate himself. However, his peaceful plans are quickly disrupted as he encounters various types of outlaws and the undesirable elements that thrive within his community. Many of these individuals appear to be connected to the local crime lord, Cornell “Cottonmouth” Stokes (Mahershala Ali).

Harlem, as Seen from a Marvel Canvas

In today’s superhero world, there’s a significant lack of series focusing on black culture and social consciousness, making Luke Cage absolutely indispensable. The show masterfully explores themes like race and economic hardship, incorporating elements of neo-blaxploitation and neo-Western storytelling. Showrunner Cheo Hodari Coker skillfully employs the gritty realism he’s recognized for from his work on shows such as Ray Donovan and NCIS: Los Angeles. This results in a captivating series that, unfortunately, didn’t receive as many seasons as it truly deserved.

8 The Defenders (2017)

In the early 2010s, the popularity of the Avengers films demonstrated that combining multiple superheroes is a consistently effective approach. Consequently, Marvel opted to apply this concept to television. As a result, The Defenders were brought into existence. The story unfolds a few months following Season 2 of Daredevil and a month after Season 1 of Iron Fist. In the series, we witness Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Daredevil, and Iron Fist joining forces to combat The Hand in New York City.

The Hand Has no Chance Against the Numerous Superhero Hands

This superhero team-up narrative explores deeper aspects of Marvel folklore with a touch of warmth and enchanting elegance. The antagonist group, The Hand, may not be formidable enough, but the captivating plot (drawn from elements of two distinct Marvel Comics) elevates the series, highlighting the everyday charm of camaraderie. Drawing inspiration from other notable MCU productions and boasting music by John Paesano, this cross-over miniseries establishes itself as a timeless franchise gem.

7 Runaways (2017 – 2019)

Runaways is about a group of six extraordinary teenagers from diverse backgrounds banding together to defy their wicked parents, who are heads of a criminal organization called Pride. As the series unfolds, their rebellion escalates, revealing the darkest aspects of their parents’ nature. The question remains: Will they manage to take down the ones who brought them up, or will the struggle consume them?

Perfect Protagonists, and a Formidable Adult Cast

This series is an exhilarating, thought-provoking rollercoaster ride of a superhero show, seamlessly blending classic teen drama elements with the grim realities of adulthood. The outcome is a grand spectacle, enhanced by sharp and engaging dialogue. The actors portraying the villains deliver exceptional intensity, making this series captivating simply for their performances. It’s a show that appeals to both casual viewers and those seeking a deeper exploration, promising more intriguing developments in the future.

6 Agent Carter (2015 – 2016)

Peggy Carter has played significant roles in various Marvel series, but it’s in “Agent Carter” where she truly takes center stage. The first season transports us back to the late 1940s, a time when Peggy is balancing her work at the Strategic Scientific Reserve (SSR) in New York City with her role as Howard Stark’s secret helper. In Season 2, she moves from New York City to Los Angeles to tackle the issues arising from the Council of Nine and the advent of the Atomic Age following World War II.

Peggy the Super Spy

With its thrilling pace, high tension, and pulse-quickening suspense, Agent Carter unfolds like a captivating spy series on television, living up to expectations. Yet, it manages to incorporate elements cherished by fans in a superhero narrative, such as comic book terminology and intriguing updates to the backstories of well-loved heroes.

Additionally, the vibrant attire and detailed historical stage decorations harmoniously accentuate the exceptional acting by every performer. Above all, the production effectively argues that the romantic escapades of well-known superheroes’ love interests should be given more focus in their own stories.

5 Jessica Jones (2015 – 2019)

The story revolves around the protagonist, Jessica Jones, who serves as both a private investigator and an alcoholic, possessing superhuman strength. Due to a traumatic event involving the manipulative antagonist, Kilgrave, who once forced her to commit a murder, she has developed PTSD. When Kilgrave resurfaces, Jessica is compelled to take every possible action to put a permanent end to his destructive influence.

The Most Relatable pre-Disney+ Marvel Show

This superhero series delivers heart-pounding suspense reminiscent of renowned TV dramas, as it explores the psychological struggles faced by the protagonist, fueling the tension in each episode. Add a dash of romantic twists like Jessica’s unexpected one-night stand with Luke Cage in the initial season, and you’ve got an enthralling television show that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

In an age when creators often neglect the opening credits, the captivating jazz-themed title sequence of Jessica Jones truly stood out and deservedly received a Creative Arts Emmy award.

4 X-Men: The Animated Series (1992 – 1997)

X-Men: The Animated Series is modeled after Jim Lee’s comics from the early ’90s. This animated series focuses on Professor Charles Xavier and his team of talented mutants, who are dedicated to resolving mysteries and restoring order when rogue government entities and nefarious Marvel villains threaten peace. Simultaneously, they must outwit secretive underground factions that hold grudges against them.

Enough Goodies for Both the Kids and Adults

This extraordinary superhero series leaps to life on the small screen with its vivid, colorful visuals, skilled voice actors, and movie-quality action scenes. While it may appear at first glance to be intended for children, the show delves into mature themes such as divorce, religion, racial tensions, isolation, loneliness, and sexual education.

It’s clear that the show’s incredible popularity led to the creation of a comic series, manga, and video games, demonstrating its extraordinary appeal. Moreover, it’s worth noting that X-Men: The Animated Series played a significant role in the genesis of the Fox X-Men live-action films.

3 Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D (2013 – 2020)

This television series, titled “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D,” centers around the fictional organization S.H.I.E.L.D. (Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement, and Logistics Division) from Marvel Comics. It follows a team of agents who handle matters related to superheroes, engaging in battles against threats from various sectors such as Hydra, the Kree, and Chronicom. Furthermore, many episodes intertwine with other productions within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

A Perfect Companion to the Movies

This series skillfully portrays the constant changes in the superhero world, delving into topics that movies didn’t have the time to cover thoroughly. Furthermore, the introduction of lesser-known superheroes offers a refreshing change from the mainstream stars. These characters may not be as well-known, but they receive thoughtful character development similar to their big-screen counterparts. Moreover, there’s an intriguing take on Ghost Rider that could make Nicolas Cage green with envy. To date, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D remains the longest-running Marvel series, and it’s easy to understand why.

2 Spider-Man (1994 – 1998)

Three decades have passed, and Spider-Man continues to be one of the most delightful series for Marvel enthusiasts. In this animated adaptation, Peter Parker balances his academic pursuits at Empire State University with his duties as a superhero. Furthermore, viewers get a glimpse into Peter’s complicated love life, which revolves around a love triangle involving him, Felicia Hardy, and Mary Jane Watson. Fortunately, Harry Osborn provides the support Peter needs during these challenging times.

Fun and Innovative

Even though it was initially created for Saturday morning viewing, Spider-Man doesn’t compromise complexity to cater to younger viewers or bore older ones. Instead, it delves into significant themes and marked the beginning of Marvel’s exploration of the Spider-verse concept – a multi-universe storyline that has since gained massive popularity.

John Semper Jr., both writer and producer, masterfully steers the series, fluidly transitioning from fast-paced New York sequences to more relaxed scenes set indoors at school and home. This ’90s favorite, which garnered an Annie award nomination, remains a must-watch for contemporary viewers.

1 Daredevil (2015 – 2018)

In the series Daredevil, Matt Murdock is a tenacious lawyer who’s conquered numerous obstacles on his professional path. However, what most people don’t realize is that he also employs his exceptional abilities to combat crime in New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen after dark. In his role as a vigilante, he encounters several other vigilantes, such as Frank Castle, better known as the Punisher. Together with these individuals, Matt forms part of a superhero group called The Defenders.

Fighting Crime Using Kicks and Words

Created with confidence by Drew Goddard, who’s renowned for his storytelling work in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Lost, and featuring outstanding performances from stars Charlie Cox and Vincent D’Onforio, Daredevil exceeds fan expectations. It skillfully portrays the danger inherent in crime, from both a legal and vigilante standpoint. Dialogue and action sequences are effectively used to emphasize this point. As a result, viewers are treated to a show that is not only visually engaging but also audibly captivating.

2024-09-23 05:02