Ranked! Every MCU Team-Up Movie: From ‘The Marvels’ to ‘Endgame’s’ Epic Finale

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Ever since Nick Fury appeared at Tony Stark’s doorstep in 2008’s Iron Man, team-up films have been a key draw of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Of course, there are fantastic solo stories like Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Black Panther, but what truly generates conversation after their release is how they contribute to the larger narrative of the franchise. Thankfully, the MCU’s most ambitious projects often deliver, assembling heroes from various parts of the universe and pitting them against seemingly impossible challenges.

Instead of saying “Not every MCU team-up movie is created equal,” you could rephrase it as “Different MCU team-up movies have varying qualities.” Also, instead of “Thunderbolts* in the fold,” you could say “Thunderbolts* has been added to the mix,” and instead of “it’s as good a time as any to rank the Marvel Studios movies that feature their fair share of heroes,” you could say “Now is an excellent opportunity to rank the Marvel Studios films with multiple heroes.” This way, the text becomes more natural and easy to read.

13) The Marvels

Although it comes last on the list, “The Marvels” boasts several appealing aspects. It showcases three Marvel Cinatic Universe heroes – Captain Marvel, Ms. Marvel, and Phonton – who find themselves swapping positions at inconvenient moments. Regrettably, despite offering numerous enjoyable scenes, a mediocre villain and subpar script hinder the potential greatness of “The Marvels”.

12) Eternals

Eternals” stands as one of the more unconventional ensemble films within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, much like “Guardians of the Galaxy.” Similarly, this production brings together lesser-known characters and strives to win over viewers. However, unlike “Guardians,” the appeal isn’t as apparent in “Eternals,” leaving some audiences yearning for more substance to distinguish it from other films. Despite Chloé Zhao’s stunning visual direction, the film lacks the depth needed to truly set it apart.

11) Avengers: Age of Ultron

Following a groundbreaking film that revolutionized cinema is no small feat, but Avengers: Age of Ultron delivers and aims high. Regrettably, the movie struggles to balance its numerous elements, resulting in an inconsistent production that takes on more than it can handle. Still, Age of Ultron plays a role in paving the way for future grandeur, and it merits recognition for that.

10) Deadpool & Wolverine

In the initial introduction of Deadpool into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine plays a significant role by taking on most of the major responsibilities. The film “Deadpool & Wolverine” showcases Logan as the emotional core, where he learns what it takes to be a hero alongside Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool. However, when the spotlight isn’t on them, the movie seems more like an attempt to capitalize on nostalgia rather than delivering something substantial.

9) The Avengers

It’s somewhat surprising to find Marvel Studios’ first team-up movie ranked so low on the list. “The Avengers” was a monumental project that demonstrated the power of perseverance with its impressive payoff. Despite its flaws such as some cheesy humor and jokes that don’t sit quite right, it remains a significant milestone. However, over time, it hasn’t held up quite as well.

8) Guardians of the Galaxy

James Gunn successfully transformed the relatively unknown Marvel group, the Guardians of the Galaxy, into familiar faces in many households. Their debut story is packed with laughter and heartfelt moments, though its weakened final act slightly hinders its position on this list.

7) Thor: Ragnarok

In “Thor: Ragnarok,” the mighty Thor embarks on a personal journey to transform himself beyond his hammer-wielding ways. Yet, this film also offers the excitement of an ensemble production as Thor teams up with Bruce Banner (aka The Hulk), Loki, and Valkyrie to thwart Hela’s plans to dominate the Nine Realms. This action-packed, laugh-out-loud journey sets Thor back on course right before the epic events of “Avengers: Infinity War.

6) Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

In the sequel, Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 2, they’ve amplified all the fantastic aspects from the initial film even more. The Guardians grapple with their role in the cosmos and discovering that they’ve found the family they’ve long been seeking remains one of the most poignant emotional arcs within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It’s a challenge to surpass a movie as great as Volume 2, but Marvel Studios certainly has some powerhouse productions up its sleeve.

5) Thunderbolts*

Cheering on the antagonists has never felt quite this satisfying! In *Thunderbolts*, some of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s most formidable characters confront their pasts and a fresh menace, Sentry. This film takes you on an emotional journey from beginning to end, with stellar acts by Florence Pugh and Lewis Pullman. Moreover, it lays the groundwork for the franchise’s future in surprising directions.

4) Captain America: Civil War

In the movie Captain America: Civil War, the conflict between Iron Man and Captain America reaches its peak. They can’t agree on a course of action when the United Nations orders the Avengers to work under their control. With no obvious resolution, the Avengers disband in a heart-wrenching finale that packs quite a punch.

3) Avengers: Infinity War

In “Avengers: Infinity War”, the movie endeavors to gather every Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) character to confront an enormous menace named Thanos. Josh Brolin, in his role, offers a remarkable portrayal of the Mad Titan, testing each hero to their limits. The story culminates in a heart-wrenching ending that surpasses any previous MCU event.

2) Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

In a continuation of his Marvel Cinematic Universe trilogy, James Gunn delivers with “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”. He doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff, and Rocket Raccoon takes the limelight in this heartfelt story. If there are no more adventures for this band of misfit heroes, they couldn’t ask for a better farewell than what’s presented in “Vol. 3”.

1) Avengers: Endgame

The immense scope of “Avengers: Endgame” earns it the number one position. It skillfully manages numerous characters and serves as a fitting farewell for the initial three phases of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The film masterfully juggles these responsibilities, providing an exceptionally thrilling third act that will likely be emulated in cinematic history for years to come. The MCU will strive to replicate the success of “Endgame” for a long time.

Thunderbolts* is in theaters now.

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2025-05-03 06:10