MCU Phase 5 Ranked: The Movie You Won’t Believe Is #1!

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The project has largely proven successful by weaving an intricate tale where every element contributes to a larger storyline. Known as The Infinity Saga initially, the first three stages spanned a decade, culminating in a grand showdown against Thanos. Subsequently, the Multiverse Saga has expanded significantly, enriching realms such as magic, cosmic, and street-level aspects considerably. As we approach the final movie of Phase 5, with Thunderbolts, it’s undeniably one of the most intriguing and contentious phases so far.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Phase 5, spanning from “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” to “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”, has delved into an extensive variety of themes and styles. While it’s fair to say that not every film in this phase was a home run, none can be dismissed as poor quality outright. Each movie showcases different degrees of achievement, with some striking a chord with viewers more than others. Unfortunately, some films have been hit by a series of unfortunate events. However, victory can take many shapes, and Phase 5 manages to touch upon nearly every aspect of it.

1. The Ant-Man trilogy hasn’t been a top performer in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), but Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania was intended to be its most successful installment. However, after the high-profile changes with actor Majors, the narrative lost much of its impact. Additionally, even if it served as a precursor to Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, the story struggled to make an emotional connection because of its erratic and inconsistent tone.

2. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the Ant-Man trilogy hasn’t been a box office powerhouse, but Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania was designed as its blockbuster. Yet, following the high-profile cast shakeup involving Majors, the plot lost significant depth. Furthermore, even if it paved the way for The Kang Dynasty, the narrative failed to resonate due to a fluctuating and unpredictable mood.

3. The Ant-Man trilogy hasn’t been a hit in the MCU, but Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania was supposed to be its biggest success. However, after the public alterations with Majors, the narrative lost much of its substance. Moreover, even if it led into The Kang Dynasty, the story struggled to strike a chord because of its uneven and unstable tone.

4. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the Ant-Man trilogy hasn’t been a big earner, but Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania was planned as its most profitable chapter. But after the public overhaul with Majors, the storyline lost much of its significance. Moreover, even if it laid the groundwork for The Kang Dynasty, the narrative failed to strike a chord due to an inconsistent and unpredictable mood.

5. In the MCU, the Ant-Man trilogy hasn’t been a money maker, but Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania was intended as its highest-grossing film. However, after the public restructuring with Majors, the plot lost much of its impact. Furthermore, even if it set up The Kang Dynasty, the story failed to connect due to a fluctuating and unstable tone.

In the film, everything about Kang instilled fear and was an ideal adversary for Ant-Man. Scott seemed out of his depth, which was evident in both his physical actions and personality. However, the rebellion fighting against Kang’s forces, along with the overly comedic portrayal of M.O.D.O.K., created a movie with conflicting tones. The result was a film that had trouble defining its own identity. In the end, Quantumania managed to deliver an MCU story reminiscent of Classic Doctor Who, but this wasn’t necessarily what the movie required.

Regrettably, the initial release of Captain Marvel faced some challenges. It introduced a character who wasn’t as celebrated in the comics at that time and was released right between Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame. This meant fans had limited attention to devote to Carol Danvers, and the film’s enjoyment factor with its partially amnesiac lead was rather average. However, The Marvels addressed many of these issues effectively. Director Nia DaCosta crafted an enjoyable adventure that developed Carol further, reintroduced Monica Rambeau, and presented even more opportunities for Ms. Marvel in a compact running time.

Considering various aspects, the film faced limited promotion and was almost dismissed before its release. Despite being entertaining, it was also the least connected movie in that phase, with only a revolutionary post-credits scene setting it apart. To sum up, while The Marvels offers fun moments and shouldn’t be overlooked, its villain lacked impact, the plot moved quickly but perhaps too swiftly, and it missed the opportunity to grab more attention.

In the realm of cinema, the film “Captain America: Brave New World” was a risky move on multiple fronts. It presented a fresh face as Captain America while simultaneously resuming the Earth-bound narrative after quite some time. The outcome was an entertaining Captain America flick that laid the groundwork for Sam Wilson’s future adventures, and served as a continuation of the story started in 2008’s “The Incredible Hulk”. Key plotlines such as Betty Ross’ return and the reemergence of The Leader were woven into this narrative. However, the ambiguity surrounding Sam Wilson’s identity as Captain America remained unresolved by the film’s end.

Due to numerous elements, “Brave New World” proved to be an entertaining movie, with Harrison Ford impressively portraying Thunderbolt Ross and the Red Hulk. Yet, it fell short in fully highlighting Sam Wilson’s unique qualities. He was a Captain America who had to manage situations uniquely, but he required more depth to truly shine as a character. Ultimately, it was an enjoyable yet insignificant film that demonstrated Marvel Cinematic Universe’s willingness to take risks.

The Deadpool films are consistently popular due to Ryan Reynolds’ exceptional portrayal of the Merc with the Mouth’s frenetic spirit. However, the collaboration between Deadpool and Wolverine offered something unique that transcended joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The reappearance of Hugh Jackman as the most authentic Wolverine to date added a fitting conclusion to the golden age of Marvel movies, extending even beyond the Fox era. This movie had numerous strengths, but what truly set it apart was its masterful blend of both new and established characters.

As a die-hard fan, I can’t hide my excitement over Wesley Snipes reprising Blade and Channing Tatum stepping into Gambit! The combination of Deadpool and Wolverine was simply phenomenal, boasting more than just its promise. However, looking back, the movie might not hold up quite as strongly without these characters. Still, witnessing their on-screen exploits was a joy.

The action sequences were nothing short of spectacular, with some of the most intense and brutal fights I’ve ever seen in a comic book movie. And let’s not forget about Hugh Jackman’s exceptional portrayal of Logan, embracing his Mutant powers while donning that iconic yellow tiger-striped suit.

In essence, Deadpool & Wolverine embodied the quintessential comic book movie experience by delivering on all fronts, just like a real comic would.

In essence, contrary to initial impressions, Thunderbolts didn’t resemble a mediocre blend of Guardians of the Galaxy and a fresh Suicide Squad. Instead, it surpassed these expectations in numerous ways. Although Yelena Belova was the main character, this didn’t diminish the remarkable performances delivered by the rest of the cast, including one who seemed a faithful representation of his comic character counterpart.

The film titled “Thunderbolts*” deviates from the standard Marvel Cinatic Universe (MCU) formula, yet echoes the early days of the franchise in a nostalgic way. It’s packed with emotion, thrilling action, and characters that, much like their comic book counterparts, are initially unlikeable but become captivating standouts. Remarkably, they embody the spirit of the heroes who preceded them, making the audience eager for more. In essence, “Thunderbolts*” is a thrilling, unexpected gem that stands out as a delightful addition to Phase 5, one that fans would be overjoyed to revisit multiple times.

James Gunn’s approach towards the Guardians of the Galaxy in the Marvel Cinematic Universe was unique and outstanding. Each film not merely reinvented each character but also presented a touching and entertaining narrative that placed it among the top franchises within the MCU. However, with Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, the storyline reached new heights, transcending the boundaries of just another comic book movie. The revelation of Rocket Raccoon’s origin was heart-wrenching, and their struggle to save his life, where the villain became secondary, further highlighted what makes this team extraordinary.

As a dedicated gamer, I must say that Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 hits all the right spots. Each character, including the fresh additions like Adam Warlock and the High Evolutionary, shows significant growth. The emotional depth these new characters bring is simply breathtaking. Plus, the sendoffs for some beloved characters are heartfelt and poignant, leaving a glimmer of hope that our favorite team might reunite someday.

This movie offers everything an MCU fan could dream of, along with the dramatic elements that any drama enthusiast would appreciate. It sets a high bar for Phase 5 of the MCU, hinting at even greater things to come in future phases. This franchise, which has been entertaining us since 2008, continues to keep the flame burning brightly, thanks to movies like this one.

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2025-05-03 00:25