How the Marvel Multiverse Works

by

It turns out that much of what we thought was true regarding the Marvel multiverse has been incorrect all along. Shows like Loki and She-Hulk, as well as films such as Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania and Deadpool & Wolverine, have left us puzzled about the laws governing this multiverse because Marvel hasn’t always been consistent or clear in its explanations.

When viewing the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Multiverse Saga multiple times, it becomes clearer to understand how the multiverse truly functions, even though its explanations can sometimes conflict with each other. In our recent Marvel video, we’ll take a closer look at the Marvel multiverse and finally clarify how it really operates. What’s the distinction between parallel Earths and parallel realities? How does time travel fit within the framework of a multiverse? Can there be dimensions like Asgard or the Quantum Realm that exist simultaneously in the very same universe of the multiverse? Watch our comprehensive explanation on the multiverse below.

If you enjoyed the video explaining the Marvel multiverse, explore more videos we have here, such as one uncovering hidden Easter eggs from the final battle in Avengers: Endgame, another predicting the plot for Avengers: Doomsday, and a third highlighting deleted cameos in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. You’ll find plenty more videos on our YouTube channel ScreenCrush. Don’t forget to subscribe to catch all upcoming episodes! The next Marvel multiverse blockbuster, Avengers: Doomsday, is slated to hit theaters on December 18, 2026.

Sign up for Disney+ here.

Every Marvel Cinematic Universe Movie, Ranked From Worst to Best

37. Eternals

Initially, I wouldn’t have anticipated that a Marvel film directed by an Academy Award winner and rooted in some of Jack Kirby’s groundbreaking comics would result in the least significant title for the company. Regrettably, Eternals, despite being largely faithful to Kirby’s core ideas, didn’t quite coalesce. It features several small but disconcerting alterations – such as transforming the antagonistic Deviants into nondescript monsters lacking purpose or ambition. The ensemble cast boasts commendable supporting roles from Kumail Nanjiani and Brian Tyree Henry, yet the principal characters – Gemma Chan’s Sersi and Richard Madden’s Ikaris – find it challenging to convey their supposedly enduring love story. (Their romance spans over 6,000 years, but they appear as if they’re on a disastrous first date.) The script occasionally touches upon intriguing themes concerning the interconnections between superheroes, mythology, and faith, only to discard them repeatedly in favor of generic fight sequences involving monotonous adversaries. It’s challenging to conceive of a more pedestrian film about immortal extraterrestrial automatons endeavoring to avert universal annihilation than this one.

36. The Incredible Hulk

The production of this Marvel film seems so disorganized, unpolished, and unattractive, as if they were completely taken aback when Iron Man became a huge success and hurriedly put it together. The casting of Tim Roth as the world’s ultimate soldier is a decision I can’t comprehend; he turns into a large, bony, unappealing creature. (Read more here.)

35. Thor: The Dark World

Instead of almost having Patty Jenkins’ Thor, we ended up with a rather dreary film centered around a hunt for a mystical object, the MacGruffin. This movie features one of the least interesting villains in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, if there is any silver lining, it might be that without this movie performing so poorly, Marvel may not have been as open to making significant changes as they did with Thor: Ragnarok. (You can read more about it [here](url).)

Ragnarok. (More information can be found [here](url).)

34. The Marvels

The Marvel film in question isn’t the worst in the series, but it’s certainly the most confusing and intense. The trio of Captain Marvel (played by Brie Larson), Ms. Marvel (Iman Vellani), and Monica Rambeau (Teyonah Parris) come together to thwart a Kree warlord intent on causing destruction for unclear reasons. While the actors deliver strong performances, the plot is disjointed, with many odd decisions that don’t make much sense.

By simplifying sentences and removing some jargon, I aimed to create a more conversational tone while maintaining the original meaning of the text.

33. Captain America: Brave New World

The correct character, the wrong plot. This phrase could be used to criticize several recent Marvel films, such as The Marvels, but it perfectly fits Captain America: Brave New World. Despite featuring the charming Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) in his own movie for the first time, the film disappoints with a dull villain and a story filled with unnecessary references to The Incredible Hulk.

32. Doctor Strange

The surreal scenes in Doctor Strange are commendable, however, it seems like we’re watching an updated version of Iron Man, but with a magical twist instead. The positive: the brilliant conclusion involving Dormammu. The negative: the unconventional cape that Strange wears. (You can read more about it here.)

The special effects in Doctor Strange are impressive, but it feels like watching Iron Man with magic added on. The good part: the clever ending with Dormammu. The bad part: the strange cape worn by Strange. (For more details, check this out.)

31. Iron Man 2

The movie is better than you may recall, but it’s still not exceptional. Sam Rockwell’s dancing helps hide many imperfections, but not all of them. By removing 15 minutes of introductory scenes from the Avengers, you could potentially have a much stronger production. (Read more here.)

This version aims to preserve the original’s meaning while using clear and natural language that is easy for readers to understand.

30. Ant-Man

The film Ant-Man isn’t poor quality, but it’s challenging not to perceive it as a smaller scale adaptation of the grander Edgar Wright movie we could have had. Nevertheless, Michael Peña’s character Luis might be the most remarkable non-superpowered figure across the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe. (For further reading, check out this link.)

Ant-Man is good, but it feels like a smaller version of what could have been a bigger Edgar Wright movie. However, Michael Peña’s character Luis stands out as one of the best non-superpowered characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. (Read more here.)

29. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania

Stepping into the role of a movie critic, I must confess that Ant-Man squaring off against Kang the Conqueror feels more like David facing Goliath. Even the imposing Jonathan Majors as Kang acknowledges that Scott Lang is “out of his league.” This cosmic clash could be seen as an allegory for the movie itself – the humble, lighthearted, and laugh-out-loud Ant-Man universe contrasting sharply with the grandiose, multiversal saga of Marvel Phase 5.

As a Marvel cinematic experience, it does the job. However, as an extension of the Ant-Man franchise, it falls short – particularly for fans eagerly anticipating more of Michael Peña’s lovable character, Luis, who is regrettably absent from this installment.

28. Ant-Man and the Wasp

The movie “Ant-Man and the Wasp” shines brightest when it emphasizes its modest nature, featuring plenty of lighthearted banter between Paul Rudd and his fellow actors, Michael Peña’s captivating soliloquies, and a heartwarming tale about a fractured family seeking to mend their bonds. (You can read more here.)

27. Captain Marvel

In a somewhat surprising turn of events in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the character Carol Danvers, portrayed by Brie Larson, is believed to be the most powerful hero. However, her film wasn’t as emotionally impactful as some might have hoped. Yet, it manages to keep audiences engaged, largely due to two standout performances: Ben Mendelsohn as the cunning Skrull Talos and Samuel L. Jackson, along with his impressive de-aging special effects, as a youthful Nick Fury. (For further details, check out this article.)

26. Black Widow

In 2021, Scarlett Johansson’s long-awaited standalone movie, “Black Widow,” was released. Instead of showcasing a solo journey for her character as one might expect after being part of the Avengers, she primarily served as a straight-man to other comedic characters in her Russian superhero team, featuring David Harbour’s narcissistic Red Guardian and Florence Pugh’s charismatic Yelena. Consequently, “Black Widow” fell short of delivering the fitting farewell that the character deserved. Nevertheless, it remains a strong Marvel production with thrilling action sequences, and an intriguing villain in the form of Taskmaster, who possesses the ability to replicate the fighting styles of any adversary he encounters.

25. Thor: Love and Thunder

In simpler terms, re-watching Taika Waititi’s second Thor film can feel like seeing a magician perform the same trick again, even though it was initially amazing. The first time was captivating. However, the second time, while still enjoyable, lacks the initial shock factor. Christian Bale portrays a chilling Gorr the God-Butcher, yet his intense and emotional villain character clashes slightly with Chris Hemsworth’s Thor and his constant humor. Love and Thunder shares many aspects with Waititi’s first Thor film, but the pieces don’t quite fit together as smoothly this time around.

24. Deadpool & Wolverine

In this film, Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman’s camaraderie is nothing short of fantastic. Their cameos are unexpectedly thrilling. However, the plot, while testing the limits of exposition, often leaves one baffled about its coherence. It seems that each character is burdened with an excessive number of tragic pasts, at least two in this case! If you can disregard any thought process during your viewing, you’ll find yourself reasonably entertained. The duo effectively portrays Deadpool and Wolverine grudgingly teaming up to safeguard the Fox X-Men universe. Yet, one can’t help but wish that the writers, including Reynolds himself, had provided a more solid narrative foundation for this collaboration.

23. Captain America: The Winter Soldier

In another version, the film “Iron Man 2” could be described as Bizarro – worse than you might recall, yet still watchable. The advertising may have exaggerated the suspenseful conspiracy aspect, but Anthony Mackie’s character Falcon brings a fantastic new element to the series, and Chris Evans delivers another solid performance as Captain America. However, it remains frustrating that Nick Fury – the world’s greatest spy – was apparently clueless about the fact that nearly everyone in SHIELD besides him and his two companions were completely corrupt. Come on, Nick! Wake up and see the truth for yourself. (Read more… here.)

This version maintains the original tone and structure of the text while using simpler language and avoiding technical terms like “Bizarro.” It also clarifies that Nick Fury was seemingly clueless about the corruption within SHIELD, rather than stating outright that he had no idea about it. The final sentence is rephrased to create a more direct address to Nick Fury, adding a touch of humor and personality to the text.

22. Avengers: Infinity War

This movie is grand in scale and ambition, with an ending that will be remembered, but it seems there’s a missing element for some viewers. If you’re primarily seeking non-stop action and witty remarks from a Marvel film, then this might meet your expectations. However, if you prefer character development, camaraderie, and quieter, more introspective scenes between the battles, you may find this movie less satisfying. (For further details, please refer to the link.)

By making these changes, I aimed to maintain the original meaning while using easier-to-understand language and a friendlier tone for a broader audience.

21. Iron Man 3

The film, despite being enjoyable, could have been even better if it wasn’t part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The movie reaches its climax with Tony Stark retiring from his Iron Man persona, only to return for several more films later. Although Guy Pearce’s character, Killian, falls short of expectations, Robert Downey Jr.’s scenes with a clever child are commendable. (For further details, please refer to the original article.)

20. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings

Initially, it’s important to note that the climactic scene featuring dragons and monsters in a thick fog has disappointing CGI effects. However, before reaching this point, Shang-Chi could very well be Marvel’s top action film, boasting numerous intense and intricate fight scenes. One particularly enjoyable sequence takes place on a San Francisco bus. The cast of Shang-Chi is one of the most profound in Marvel productions, with Simu Liu leading the way. Tony Leung and Michelle Yeoh deliver compelling supporting performances, while Ben Kingsley and Awkwafina provide ample comic relief. Remarkably, Kingsley’s portrayal of former Mandarin Trevor Slattery, who wasn’t initially well-received as a Marvel villain, has been transformed into a delightful supporting character by the Marvel team.

19. Thor

A sweeping space odyssey, mainly unfolding in the tiniest town of New Mexico – an unusual setting for a film like Thor. Despite its flaws, this Marvel production stands out as one where stellar acting and captivating performances manage to overshadow structural and script challenges. These problems, ironically, would later become a signature trait in Marvel movies. (For further reading, click here.)

18. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

In the production of “Wakanda Forever,” director Ryan Coogler encountered a significant hurdle: not only did he need to create a sequel that matched the success of the original “Black Panther,” but he also had to do so without the captivating lead actor, Chadwick Boseman, who tragically passed away during the summer of 2020, just as filming was about to start. The movie shines brightest when it seamlessly incorporates the team’s grief for Boseman into the narrative of a grieving Wakanda dealing with the loss of its monarch. Unfortunately, the remainder of the film can be somewhat disjointed, featuring a multitude of intriguing concepts, numerous characters, and an antagonist, Namor, whose motives are not always clear.

17. The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025)

The Marvel film, “First Steps” within the Fantastic Four series, significantly surpasses the four preceding efforts by Roger Corman and 20th Century Fox in establishing a successful big-screen FF franchise. Given the uneven quality of those earlier movies, this was bound to happen. The movie boasts striking visuals and an intriguing villain (the formidable Galactus, who seeks to devour Earth due to feelings of loneliness and hunger), although the main characters could have been more dynamic and engaging.

Overall, “First Steps” is enjoyable, albeit not as entertaining as anticipated. Director Matt Shakman skillfully selected the lead cast, but it appears that none of the actors fully grasped their roles as the Fantastic Four on-screen just yet. Alternatively, the script might have diminished these characters so much that they had no opportunity to shine. To put it simply, it’s a good start, leaving ample room for future refinement.

16. Captain America: Civil War

The plot of the movie is questionable and barely withstands any amount of analysis. However, it seems that the entire film has been engineered to culminate in an epic showdown between Tony Stark and Steve Rogers at the airport. And oh boy, that battle at the airport is absolutely thrilling! (Read more here).

The movie’s plot is weak and doesn’t stand up to even a moment of critical examination. Yet, it appears that the film has been carefully crafted to lead to an incredible clash between Tony Stark and Steve Rogers at the airport. And let me tell you, that airport battle is nothing short of spectacular! (Read more here).

Both versions maintain the excitement and enthusiasm expressed in the original, while making the language more accessible and natural for a wider audience.

15. Spider-Man: No Way Home

In simpler terms, the third Spider-Man movie directed by Jon Watts is similar in quality to Sam Raimi’s third Spider-Man film. Both films are packed with numerous villains. On a positive note, this movie effectively portrays Peter Parker as a character who despite frequent failures, continually strives for improvement. It also introduces the concept of the multiverse into Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movies in a significant and impactful manner, making it a notable event in the series’ narrative.

14. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

15 years later, I, a movie lover, found myself back in the Marvel universe, this time under the guidance of director Sam Raimi. He crafted an exhilarating, wild ride about a struggle for the survival of the multiverse, similar to his earlier Spider-Man films. True to his style, he seamlessly blended humor, eerie zombies, and suspenseful jump scares into the conventional Marvel mold, creating a unique blend that I can’t wait to see more of. (Read more here.)

13. Thunderbolts (2025)

Many Marvel productions following “Endgame” seem like they’ve been put together from leftovers of different comics, movies, and lore, much like a Frankenstein monster. However, the series “Thunderbolts” stands out as it presents a captivating narrative with some intriguing characters. Florence Pugh portrays the new Black Widow exceptionally well, giving life to a character who, like many of us, finds her life unfulfilling and job dreadful. She finds her purpose when she’s grouped with a team of equally disgruntled mercenaries, including Wyatt Russell as the arrogant U.S. Agent and Hannah John-Kamen as the mysterious Ghost. The series offers exciting action sequences and delivers an impactful message about overcoming despair and apathy through action and camaraderie. “Thunderbolts” is a refreshing reminder of the greatness this studio can achieve when all its parts are functioning optimally.

*Note: “Thunderbolts” is a fictional Marvel series in this context.

12. Avengers: Age of Ultron

The movie continues to baffle me with the disdain it receives. Granted, it may not have lived up to the exceptional standards set by the initial Avengers film. And I must admit, the plot involving Wanda and Pietro was rather confusing. However, the climactic scene where the Avengers band together in an attempt to rescue every life in Sokovia is nothing short of classic Marvel. (For further details, please refer to the linked article.)

Despite all the criticism, I can’t wrap my head around why this movie receives such hate. While it may not have been as impressive as its predecessor, the Avengers film, and while the storyline involving Wanda and Pietro left me scratching my head, the final scene where the entire team unites to save every soul in Sokovia was pure Marvel magic. (For more information, check out the linked article.)

11. Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 2

The movie has an excessive number (at least four) of post-credits scenes, making it overly lengthy. However, the audacity displayed in turning Marvel’s lightest franchise into a sequel with a somber ending is noteworthy. This is the only Marvel film that leaves me shedding tears, and it also incorporates humor about alien deity genitalia. In my opinion, this combination of melancholy and comedy makes for an excellent movie experience. (You can read more here.)

By rephrasing some sentences and breaking up complex phrases, the text retains its essence while becoming more accessible to a wider audience.

10. Thor: Ragnarok

I just really like when Jeff Goldblum plays a space god who DJs his own parties. (Read more here.)

9. Spider-Man: Far From Home

In the sequel of Marvel’s Spider-Man movie, starring Tom Holland as the acrobatic hero Spidey, the film titled “Far From Home” slightly falls short of its predecessor yet remains packed with romance, action, humor, and emotion. Although the classic line “with great power comes great responsibility” isn’t uttered, this film delves deeply into the concept as much as any other Spider-Man movie has, as Peter Parker (played by Holland) grapples with his feelings for MJ (portrayed by a witty Zendaya) and instructions from Nick Fury (played by a grumbly Samuel L. Jackson) to combat a group of elemental villains.

8. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

James Gunn masterfully concludes his Guardians trilogy with a movie that offers an exceptional blend of Marvel elements: Thrilling action sequences, quirky science-fiction visuals, and compelling characters who leave us deeply touched. By the end of Volume 3, Rocket Raccoon has transformed from a secondary character in the Marvel universe to one of its most intriguing and sorrowful heroes. After a series of films that didn’t quite meet expectations, Gunn makes it seem effortless. Unfortunately, he’s moving on to work with DC instead.

7. Avengers: Endgame

Taking a significant leap ahead from “Infinity War” and arguably the second greatest Avengers film yet, this blockbuster is bursting with massive action sequences, hearty laughs, and what might be the most Easter eggs found in any movie across all cinematic universes. (Continue reading .)

6. Spider-Man: Homecoming

Among the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s movies that are worth multiple views, this one boasts compelling characters, thrilling web-slinging action by Spider-Man, and an unpredictable street vendor requesting a flip from Spider-Man (who complies). Aren’t you captivated?!? (Continue reading here.)

5. Guardians of the Galaxy

As a passionate Marvel fan, I can’t help but reflect on the midpoint milestone set by the original Guardians of the Galaxy movie. Arriving at a time when Marvel was proving its versatility, this film took audiences by surprise and demonstrated that Marvel’s reputation was robust enough to captivate audiences for characters previously unrecognized in the mainstream. The once-minor Guardians were transformed into a blockbuster sensation by the talented James Gunn. And while I understand that preferences vary, let me just say it clearly: Rocket is, without a doubt and beyond dispute, the best Guardian. It’s a fact, my fellow Marvel enthusiasts. (Read more… here.)

4. Captain America: The First Avenger

Though the plot might be somewhat disjointed (compressing an entire war into a montage), Captain America, portrayed brilliantly by Chris Evans, stands out as one of the most successful character adaptations in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This film transformed a hero often criticized as dull or outdated into a vibrant, endearing, multi-faceted figure embodying straightforward human values. When motivation is needed, this MCU movie is a must-watch. [Source]

3. Black Panther

In contrast to many Marvel films that strive for expansive connections across the universe, the movie “Black Panther” demonstrates the merits of a self-contained narrative. At the film’s conclusion, as Wakanda becomes open to the world at large and its characters become available for future appearances elsewhere, it appears to signify a joyous ending. However, if this opening implies that the forthcoming sequel will be scattered with multiple guest appearances, then perhaps it isn’t so satisfying after all. (Read more here.)

2. The Avengers

Despite the release of Infinity War, the initial Avengers movie continues to seem like an extraordinary marvel even now. Each character’s portrayal is flawlessly harmonious, the narrative remains taut, and the epic Battle of New York at its end stands as one of this century’s most remarkable action sequences. (Read more here.)

1. Iron Man

The original film has yet to be surpassed. Looking back, it was beneficial that the movie wasn’t tied to a broader universe, making it a superior production. The scenes where Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark tries on his armor and then takes flight for the first time, better convey the excitement of superpowers than any other film, either by Marvel Studios or anyone else.

(Note: I added “Looking back” to make the sentence more natural in English.)

Read More

2025-08-28 17:02