The Best Action Sequences in MCU Phase One

As a long-time comic book enthusiast and moviegoer, I must say that each of these action sequences from Phase One of the Marvel Cinematic Universe holds a special place in my heart. Each one represents a milestone in the evolution of this groundbreaking franchise.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) boasts 34 movies, 11 series on Disney+, and close to five complete phases, yet many fans continue to cherish the origin stories that sparked it all. Movies like 2008’s Iron Man, 2011’s Captain America: The First Avenger, and Marvel’s The Avengers are often praised as some of the MCU’s finest offerings. The action sequences in these early films have a unique appeal that distinguishes them from later entries in the series.

Escaping Captivity in Iron Man

The thrilling opening action sequences in the Marvel Cinematic Universe were set into motion by Tony Stark’s daring escape from Afghan captivity. These scenes are both grandiose and character-driven. It’s significant because we, as viewers, had just spent nearly a half hour watching Stark forge a bond with Yinsen, who he initially didn’t even recall from their earlier encounter. Tragically, Yinsen was killed by their captors, the Ten Rings.

Additionally, throughout the film, there’s a significant accumulation of suspense leading up to when Tony Stark finally dons his suit, especially concerning rumors about him constructing the “Jericho” missile. The audience experiences a thrill when it is revealed that instead, they have been building the arc reactor. This scene is particularly effective in demonstrating Stark’s character development, but it’s also exciting to witness the initial prototype Iron Man armor emitting flames from its arms as it targets explosive ammunition crates.

A Peacekeeping Mission in Iron Man

Just as the escape from the Ten Rings demonstrated the possibility for personal development in Stark, so did his response upon learning that the weapons he had ordered discontinued were still being sold to a terrorist group. Dressed in a striking red and gold suit, he returned to the country he had fled, not only to eliminate what was left of those weapons but also to rescue the people oppressed by them.

It’s a scene that ends up being hugely impactful on the film’s narrative, given it ends up revealing just who had been selling those weapons to the Ten Rings. But, in the end, it’s the action sequence that gave the movie its most trailer-worthy moments, including Iron Man confidently walking away from a tank after firing a little explosive into its hull.

Iron Man vs. Iron Monger in Iron Man

The showdown between Iron Man and Iron Monger offers thrilling, cinematic highlights, making for an enjoyable end to a well-crafted film. Although their metallic confrontation on city streets might be short-lived, it’s unforgettable due to moments like Tony Stark being hit by a panicking family’s vehicle and Iron Monger learning the hard way about the impact of frosting on their armor. And let’s not forget the striking image of Iron Monger picking up a speeding motorcycle and smashing it against Iron Man, an image that lingers in the mind.

To conclude, Tony demonstrates personal growth by making a selfless act over the past two hours. This action, though potentially risky, ultimately saves him – a fitting climax. Interestingly, this sequence maintains a logical flow, which isn’t always the case with all the action scenes in its subsequent sequel. We’ll delve deeper into that aspect later on.

Hulk vs. Abomination in The Incredible Hulk

Initially, The Incredible Hulk wasn’t originally planned as part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). However, over time, it was decided to include it in the universe and introduce another Avenger. While some parts of the film may not perfectly align with other MCU films, its action sequences are still significant and worth noting.

The clash between Blonsky and Hulk at Culver University deserves some props, especially the money shot of Banner’s hand slamming against the glass of an elevated walkway, that hand turning green, and then the big guy jumping through the glass. However, the rock ’em sock ’em finale is the film’s best. Has all of the CGI in the Harlem sequence aged all that well? Not quite. Does the usage of “Hulk smash!” seem a little on-the-nose in hindsight? Sure, but it also shows that this is the solo Hulk movie that actually knows how to construct a Hulk action sequence, which Ang Lee’s bizarre 2003 snoozer most certainly did not.

Fending Off a Hammeroid Attack in Iron Man 2

In the third act of Iron Man 2, Tony Stark and Rhodey go up against Hammer Drones and Whiplash. Similar to its other significant fight scene – the Monaco race – this battle falls short in duration. Nevertheless, there are aspects that make the final showdown more captivating than the Monaco race, despite it featuring the movie’s most impressive visual spectacle (Vanko wielding his whips with razor-sharp precision and a growing grin).

Firstly, the fast succession of shots depicts the armored pair demolishing drones with their powerful blasts, and it’s evident that this was planned by Samurai Jack’s creator, Genndy Tartakovsky.

Reckless Behavior on Jotunheim in Thor

In a surprising twist, the climactic third act battle between Thor and the Destroyer in New Mexico is the movie’s major spectacle, yet it falls short on excitement for many viewers. What truly stands out in this scene isn’t the fight itself, but rather Thor’s growth as he accepts responsibility, demonstrates humility, and ultimately regains Mjölnir.

In Kenneth Branagh’s Thor, the action reaches its high point early on, during the scene where Thor’s duty and humility are challenged. The fight on Jotunheim stands out as the most memorable action sequence, serving as a strong demonstration of Thor’s immense power among the Avengers (particularly those introduced in Phase One). He effortlessly dispatches Frost Giants as if they were insignificant, and he adds an exclamation point to the scene by flying through a Frost Beast’s skull, exiting through its open mouth.

We’re Gonna Need a Montage in Captain America: The First Avenger

It can be debated that Joe Johnston’s “Captain America: The First Avenger” stands out not only as the best film of Marvel Cinematic Universe’s initial phase, but perhaps the best of the entire franchise. This isn’t due to its action sequences, which are relatively limited, but rather its deep character development, authentic retro aesthetic, and the remarkable chemistry shared by Chris Evans and Haley Atwell. Despite having fewer action scenes compared to other films in the genre, it still boasts memorable moments.

The scene of Rogers chasing the HYDRA agent just after he’s gotten buffed up is fun, but if there’s an apex to its action sequences, it’s the (Return of the Jedi-referencing) montage once Rogers has broken out of being a “dancing monkey” and truly becomes Captain America. Even still, the movie’s a true winner because of its smaller, action-oriented moments, e.g. Peggy Carter unloading a clip into Cap’s shield, not to test its strength, but to show she does in fact have feelings for Steve and didn’t much care to see him fondue-ing with Pvt. Lorraine.

Attack on the S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier in Marvel’s The Avengers

In this rephrased version: The extended scene showing a brainwashed Hawkeye taking the lead in rescuing Loki from his imprisonment on the S.H.I.E.L.D. helicarrier is effective due to the inclusion of a grueling battle between Thor and Hulk. Additionally, it serves as practice for the team before they confront the Chitauri invasion. Although their teamwork has not been fully established yet, it’s exciting to observe how they come together.

The sequence serves to develop the relationship, particularly the camaraderie, between Steve Rogers and Tony Stark, as well as the dynamics among Bruce Banner, Natasha Romanoff. Notably, she’s the one who attempts to pacify him in a situation that could have cost her life. Unlike a clichéd “the day is ending” phrase, it’s not about such an expression.

The Battle for New York in Marvel’s The Avengers

One captivating way to rephrase this would be: The climactic battle in The Avengers, during Phase One of Marvel Cinematic Universe’s action sequences, remains one of the franchise’s most thrilling spectacles. Notably, its fluidity often surpasses the movie’s initial pacing, which can feel a bit slow (especially during the first 20 minutes). Furthermore, the shot encircling the now-unified team is as iconic an image as any in the MCU.

The Chitauri work best as disposable troops instead of a genuine danger, yet they serve well as an early challenge in the third act for the team. Regarding Loki, Hulk’s rough handling of him recalls vivid memories and has been frequently referenced across MCU productions due to its significant role in an unforgettable action sequence that stands among the finest in the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Phase One of the Marvel Cinematic Universe can be streamed on Disney+.

2024-12-07 22:11