How to Watch Every MCU Movie and Show in Chronological Order: The Ultimate Guide

Approximately twenty years ago, “Iron Man” ignited a mega-million dollar series that is widely recognized and adored today. At that time, viewers had no idea of the epic journey they were embarking on when Robert Downey Jr., portraying Tony Stark, declared, “I am Iron Man,” at the end of the initial film. Without a doubt, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has grown into an extraordinary phenomenon since then, and following the entire story as it unfolded was truly remarkable.

Although this approach made it challenging at times to discern the correct sequence of events, as some films were sequels, prequels, or fell somewhere in between. However, now with Disney+ streaming service, it’s simpler than ever before to follow along and watch the first five phases of Marvel Cinematic Universe movies and shows in chronological order.

The Infinity Saga Started It All

The most remarkable tale that emerged from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), known as the Infinity Saga, set the stage for everything else. If it weren’t for the events leading to Thanos and his catastrophic snap, which wiped out half of all life in the universe, there wouldn’t be an Avengers team. The hunt for the Infinity Stones and the selfless acts by certain Avengers left a lasting impression on moviegoers when Avengers: Endgame was released in April 2019. Its sweeping narrative was skillfully woven and delivered a significant reward to viewers before ushering them into the Multiverse Saga, providing countless new stories for exploration.

The MCU’s Multiverse Saga Has Seen Some Changes

Viewers ventured into uncharted territories beyond their beloved superheroes, thanks to the Multiverse Saga, where a tale initially centered around Kang the Conqueror (Jonathan Majors) transformed into one dominated by Doctor Doom (Robert Downey Jr.). However, after the 2023 controversy involving Jonathan Majors, Disney chose to conclude Kang’s storyline, along with those of his counterparts, through the shows Loki and Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania.

In July 2025, the release of “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” marks the debut of Doctor Doom as a villain reminiscent of Thanos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This conflict is expected to reach its climax in “Avengers: Secret Wars” scheduled for December 2027. At this point, it remains unknown how this grand story will play out across various dimensions or how our cherished characters will contribute to the plot. Nonetheless, it’s evident that significant events are yet to unfold.

MCU Timeline in Chronological Order

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I can’t help but marvel at the intricate tapestry that is the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). From the origin story of Captain America: The First Avenger to the upcoming Thunderbolts*, the timeline spans a vast expanse of interconnected narratives. For those eager to revisit this epic saga or for newcomers dipping their toes in, it’s essential to watch everything in chronological order.

This method offers not only a thrilling journey through the MCU but also enables viewers to comprehend the events and stories as they truly unfolded. It’s like piecing together a puzzle, each film adding a piece to the grand picture, allowing for better character development and a deeper understanding of the universe’s intricacies.

Here’s a list of every MCU movie and show in chronological order. Brace yourself, it’s a lengthy voyage!

*Please note that the release date for Thunderbolts has not been confirmed yet.

Film/Show Title Release Date
Captain America: The First Avenger July 19, 2011
One Shot: Agent Carter September 24, 2013
Captain Marvel March 8, 2019
Iron Man May 2, 2008
Iron Man 2 May 7, 2010
The Incredible Hulk June 13, 2008
One Shot: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Thor’s Hammer October 25, 2011
Thor May 2, 2011
One Shot: The Consultant September 13, 2011
Avengers May 4, 2012
One Shot: Item 47 September 25, 2012
Thor: The Dark World November 8, 2013
Iron Man 3 May 3, 2013
One Shot: All Hail the King February 4, 2014
Captain America: The Winter Soldier April 4, 2014
Guardians of the Galaxy August 1, 2014
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 May 5, 2017
I Am Groot (Series) August 10, 2022
Daredevil (Series) April 10, 2015
Jessica Jones (Series) November 20, 2015
Avengers: Age of Ultron May 1, 2015
Ant-Man June 29, 2015
Luke Cage (Series) September 30, 2016
Iron Fist (Series) March 17, 2017
The Defenders (Series) August 18, 2017
Captain America: Civil War May 6, 2016
Black Widow July 9, 2021
Black Panther February 16, 2018
Spider-Man: Homecoming July 7, 2017
Punisher (Series) November 17, 2017
Doctor Strange October 13, 2016
Thor: Ragnarok November 3, 2017
Ant-Man and the Wasp July 6, 2018
Avengers: Infinity War April 27, 2018
Avengers: Endgame April 26, 2019
Loki Season 1 (Series) June 9, 2021
What If…? (Series) August 11, 2021
WandaVision (Series) January 15, 2021
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings September 3, 2021
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (Series) March 19, 2021
Spider-Man: Far From Home July 2, 2019
Eternals November 5, 2021
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness May 6, 2022
Hawkeye (Series) November 24, 2021
Moon Knight (Series) March 30, 2022
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever November 11, 2022
Echo (Series) January 9, 2024
She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (Series) August 18, 2022
Ms. Marvel (Series) June 8, 2022
Thor: Love and Thunder June 23, 2022
Werewolf by Night September 25, 2022
The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special November 25, 2022
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania February 17, 2023
Loki Season 2 (Series) October 5, 2023
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 May 5, 2023
Secret Invasion (Series) June 21, 2023
The Marvels November 10, 2023
Deadpool & Wolverine July 26, 2024
Agatha All Along (Series) September 18, 2024
Daredevil: Born Again (Series) March 4, 2025
Captain America: Brave New World February 14, 2025
Thunderbolts* May 2, 2025
Ironheart (Series) June 24, 2025

The Future of the MCU

In 2027, when Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe concludes the Multiverse Saga with “Avengers: Secret Wars”, it’s anticipated that Phase 7 will predominantly revolve around the X-Men and may serve as a refreshing start for the entire MCU storyline. As we progress, Marvel Studios has mentioned reducing the number of releases compared to their previous pace. You can expect approximately five new projects annually, combining both movies and series. However, keep in mind that future phases might take different directions, so everything is open to adjustments as needed.

At present, Black Panther 3 is the only movie definitively set for Marvel’s Phase 7. Whispers about Blade, The Scarlet Witch, X-Men, and Shang-Chi 2 continue, but there’s no official word on any of these potential projects yet. Regretfully, we can only keep our fingers crossed that these exciting prospects will one day become a reality. Here’s a rundown of the confirmed movies and shows due for release in the MCU down the line.

Film/Show Title Release Date
The Fantastic Four: First Steps July 25, 2025
Eyes of Wakanda (Series) August 6, 2025
Marvel Zombies (Series) October 3, 2025
Wonder Man (Series) December 2025
Spider-Man: Brand New Day July 31, 2026
Avengers: Doomsday December 18, 2026
Avengers: Secret Wars December 17, 2027
Black Panther 3 February 2028 (rumored)

* The complete Marvel Cinematic Universe collection can be streamed on Disney+, with a special area set aside for viewing all films and series in sequence.
* On July 25, 2025, the first installment of the Fantastic Four, titled The Fantastic Four: First Steps, will make its debut in cinemas.

Stream the MCU movies and shows on Disney+.

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2025-07-06 00:37