Top 11 Marvel Cinematic Universe Films - A RMNT Countdown Special

The Marvel Cinematic Universe, a franchise of 18 films (for the time being) that’s beautifully woven in a huge web of connected in a series of events in the span of ten years with characters brought to life by the biggest ensemble of actors and actresses in film history. But it's not just the cast that makes these characters, its the incredible dedication and effort delivered by talented directors, writers, producers, costume designers, set designers and, of course, the man behind it all, Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios! If someone were to tell you that there’s going to be a franchise that’s based on the Marvel Comics Universe that’s all built up in connections to events and characters, you wouldn’t believe me. In fact, you would even say that’s absolutely ridiculous and that there’s no way it can all work! But as of today, the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues growing strong in success, critically and commercially!

When it comes to cinematic universes, the MCU is what many can consider the first of its kind and remains to be the best and most well-constructed of the bunch! From the first Iron Man film that introduced a character not many people knew off, to where it has been building up to now, an upcoming film to feature, what I can believe, one of the biggest all-star ensembles in film industry! And to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of this hugely successful franchise, I’m going to countdown the best of the Marvel Cinematic Universe films, eleven of them to be exact. These are the films that I consider are not just the best films, but also the ones to feature important plot points in its grand storytelling, as well as introducing characters who’ll also become a key player in the ever-growing franchise. With all that said, let’s assemble this countdown of the Top 11 Best Marvel Cinematic Universe films!

#11) Doctor Strange (2016)

Who would’ve thought that Marvel Studios would somehow make a superhero film centered on a sorcerer and succeed? While its definitely one of the most visually-stunning films in the franchise, its also quite an interesting one too at that. While the story structure is eerily similar to that of the first Iron Man film, its supernatural aspect, introduction to the concept of the multiverse and dimensions, its impressive visual effects, and of course, its main cast! Benedict Cumberbatch, from the moment he was chosen for the role, I knew from the start he would pull off a captivating performance, along with other amazing performances from the rest of the cast, including Rachel McAdams as, for once, not a forced love interest, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Benedict Wong as his allies and fellow sorcerers, Baron Mordo and Wong, respectively, Mads Mikkelsen as the film’s antagonist Kaecilius, and Tilda Swinton as the wise and powerful Ancient One! It may be on the bottom of the list, but it’ll still remain as the one film that’ll always deliver a mesmerizing experience and I truly look forward to seeing Strange team up with the Avengers and the Guardians of the Galaxy in the upcoming Infinity War!!

#10) Captain America: The First Avenger (2014)

What happens when Marvel Studios choses the director of The Rocketeer to tell the story of how Steve Rogers became Captain America to help the Allied Forces fight off the Nazis in World War II? You get an action-adventure superhero film set in the 1940’s that’s packed with exciting fight sequences, a cast of memorable characters, and standout production design that truly brings the era to life, from the costumes, vehicles and even Alan Silvestri’s music helps with setting the mood for classic heroic action! At the time when the film was announced, no one was sure if this work since this a character not most people know fully well about, including the casting of Chris Evans as the character. But thanks to the direction and writing, Chris Evans proves that he captures the role perfectly, from his good heart, strong determination, and his fighting spirit. Hugo Weaving AKA Agent Smith from The Matrix Trilogy is also perfect as the film’s villain, the Red Skull, as he delivers a cunning mind and a dangerous determination to destroy his enemies and to conquer all nations, as any good old-fashioned villain should be. The film has everything you want to see in a film such as this: a story about the journey of a young hero who wants to do the right thing, exciting action, great group of characters, incredible sets that brings the 1940’s to life, a standout score, and another buildup to one of the most highly successful films of all time!

9) Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

Every great film deserves a great sequel and this one delivers all aspects in story, characters, villain, action, scope, and more world-building in the Marvel Cinematic Universe! While it doesn’t reach the same booming caliber as the first film, this one tackles their biggest challenge in the form of Ultron, a highly intelligent and powerful robot who intends on destroying humanity, as he believes, will fix it to make it better! James Spader’s performance as the villain is a sinister one while also delivering his signature chilling charm! The film surprising shows character depth in each of the Avengers, including a scene when Tony Stark sees a vision of his dead fellow teammates and a massive of aliens forces heading to Earth and flashes of Black Widow’s backstory emotionally getting the best of her. Avengers: Age of Ultron is a massive sequel, with more characterization, nicely-shot action scenes, a memorably dangerous villain and more world-building elements.

#8) Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

Before the film was released last year on November, many were not only concerned if it’ll redeem the Thor film series, but also fear that the tone and execution could ruin the story that its based on. But once again, Marvel Studios surprisingly delivered not only one of the best films of the franchise, but also one of its funniest! Thanks to the unique vision of New Zealand director Taika Waititi, Thor: Ragrarok is a solid addition that shows Thor as a growing character while also more charming, down to earth side, as Chris Hemworth continues to remind us why he’s a worthy choice for the role. The main story, while loosely based on the comics’ version and mixed with elements from the Planet Hulk story, which combines and flows well, and chockfull of fun humorous moments, ranging from Thor interacting with other characters to witty dialogue, and giving a 1980’s fantasy adventure vibe! Cate Blanchett’s performance as Hela is also a great villain as she’s proven to be a force to be reckoned with and Jeff Goldblum’s memorable performance as the odd and eccentric Grandmaster is always a delight, which somehow fits well into the film. The ending alone was also worth while surprise, proving that the writers really took risks in figuring out how to surpass the first Thor film and making up for the poor reception of the second film. This is a threequel worth the rewatch for plenty of laughs, more world-building in the growing cinematic universe and exciting fantasy action!

#7) Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)

This was a huge gamble that both Marvel Studios and fans were very uncertain if it would become a huge hit or not, but thanks to James Gunn’s unique vision, a great cast, impressive visuals, out-of-this-world effects, and a rocking 80’s soundtrack, and you got yourself a very funny and exciting franchise of space spectacles! Both Guardians films are the funniest of the Marvel Cinematic Universe franchise, due to the hilariously well-delivered comedy, witty dialogue and character-driven humor. The cast of the film series are also standouts as each are interesting, relatable, and when they all work together… Watch out and you’ll end up caring for a bunch of lovable losers! While the film has a familiar storytelling rhythm, the direction, writing, beautiful visuals, action scenes, and its soundtrack of well-selected songs really make these truly an awesome franchise and I can’t wait for what’s in store for the Guardians in their upcoming third and final film!

#6) Iron Man (2008)

Meet the film that started it all. Not only was it a great first film that introduced a superhero to a very unfamiliar audience, but the film that was the biggest comeback in Robert Downey, Jr.’s acting career after years of drug abuse and repetitive returns, in which because of it, is now one of the highest-grossing stars in Hollywood. Jon Faveau did an incredible job of telling the story of redemption for weapons developer Tony Stark as he starts his journey in becoming a high tech superhero while also redeeming Robert as an actor, which is what made the casting all the more brilliant. The storytelling and effects still ages well after 10 years since its theatrical release, and also to this day, its still insane to believe that this one film would be the start for the highest-grossing film franchise of all time!

#5) Black Panther (2018)

What’s there to say about the latest installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe franchise? You heard it all: an amazing cast of memorable characters, exciting action scenes, a uniquely standout score by Lugwig Göransson, a complex villain with a dangerous, but understandable motivation, themes relevant to today’s current issues, and impressive production merits. After making his live-action debut in Captain America: Civil War, it was very clear that he would have his own solo film, and good God, was it done well! Everything was done brilliantly from the get-go: the storytelling, direction, characterization, performances, action, and the production quality. This is one superhero film that truly deserves all the success and I still look forward for what’s to come in its future sequel for more potential character growth for the leading character and more exploration in the nation of Wakanda!

#4) Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

With Captain America becoming a fan favorite in the MCU after his first film and appearance in The Avengers, the question still remains: how do you take that character to a new level in his sequel film? The answer, giving it a political spy thriller with much intense action and an intriguing plot that forever impacted the cinematic universe. Thanks to the writers of the first Captain America film, the direction of the Russo Brothers, a stronger and emotional performance from Chris Evans as the titular role, and you have yourself not only one of the best films in the franchise, but also one of the best films of the 2014! The story is complex, full of action, character depth, and themes of security, and consequences, which is unheard of in a superhero blockbuster film! Just when I thought this was the best Captain America film, the next one on the list not only beat, but would also changed the game in the franchise…

#3) Captain America: Civil War (2016)

For a while, Captain America: The Winter Soldier was the top best Marvel Cinematic Universe film, but all changed when Captain America: Civil War came to theaters on May 2016. This was truly the game changer in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as it tackled a more challenging subject: the aftermath from after the superhero did the job. After the devastating events that took place in the previous films, the United Nations has declared that the Avengers need to be put in check, in which many agree, while others, the opposite. This was a subject that was well explored and debated, especially in the perspectives of Tony Stark and Steve Rogers. Not only was the quality of storytelling well thought and the plot executed immensely, but the action taken to new heights as well as they show an impressive mix of practical fighting choreography and stunt work and CGI. The Russo Brothers return to direct and the results are nothing short of amazing. Each character gets the right essential amount of screen time and the introductions of new characters joining the MCU, Black Panther and Spider-Man, remains a true standout. Then there’s the remaining minutes of the film as we see an emotionally devastating end of a team and a friendship… Captain America: Civil War is truly the best of the Captain America trilogy and a game changer in the franchise!

#2) Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)

When Spider-Man first appeared in Civil War, I felt like jumping with joy as I was very excited to see my favorite superhero side by side with the Avengers on the big screen! So when it was announced that he’ll be appearing in his solo film set after the events of Civil War, I was both excited and concerned… First we had the Sam Raimi Spider-Man Trilogy, which in the end was still a good trilogy despite its flaws, then the Amazing Spider-Man films, directed by Marc Webb, but sadly, those were very flawed, so how can Spider-Man: Homecoming be any different? Well, thanks to Marvel Studios handing the creative control, plus a good director, and a cast of well-selected actors and actresses, including Tom Holland reprising his role as the titular character, I felt a bit more confident that this was gonna turn out to be something really special. Spider-Man: Homecoming hits all the right spots that the previous versions of the Spider-Man films didn’t, from seeing Peter Parker portrayed as a relatable teenager, his scenes taking place in high school, making mistakes and learning as he faces criminals as Spider-Man, including the Vulture, played by Michael Keaton, who menacingly owns the screen! The casting is on point, the costume is on point, the motivation is on point and even his theme composed by Michael Giacchino is on point! Tom Holland remains as the perfect choice to play both the roles of Peter Parker and Spider-Man as the portrayals are well balanced and captures the significant elements that make him the character we all grew up connecting to. I know that many will say that Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield are their preferred Spider-Man portrayals, but to me, Tom Holland IS the character, from his quirks, intelligence, showing doubts, and most importably, he’s a teenager growing and learning the challenges of being a superhero, which is the whole point of the character! Marvel Studios delivered the more accurate representation of the world of the iconic web-slinger in the form of Spider-Man: Homecoming, more than any of the previous films and I can’t wait to see him grow and evolve into a more experienced superhero in later films of the Marvel Cinematic Universe franchise!

Before I get to #1, I should at least mention other good films that didn’t make the list, but are still entertaining to watch:

Thor (2011)

Kenneth Branagh bought Thor and Asgard to the big screen and it is massive! Chris Hemsworth delivers solid charisma as Thor, Tom Hiddleston is perfect as Loki, Anthony Hopkins looks powerful and wise as Odin, the impressive production of the sets and costuming really brings Asgard to life, and the action sequences are fun and striking, but it does have its flaws, like when Thor is banished to Earth to a small town in Mexico City, which leads to the “fish out of water” scenario. Fortunately, Thor adapts to his situation rather well and we do get some nice laughs from the timing of it. Scenes between Thor with ether his father Odin or Loki are always engaging as Branagh brings the Shakespearian-styled drama into it and works brilliantly.

Ant-Man (2015)

Like Thor, this was a film that no one was sure to go see since this was a character that no one was very familiar with, plus his powers aren’t exactly the most interesting, but thanks to the writing and direction, it cleverly works as both a heist film and adding a relatable story of fathers seeking redemption. I wasn’t sure about the casting choice of Paul Rudd at the time, but I was glad to be proven wrong as he brings plenty of charm and charisma into the role, in fact, the rest of the cast does incredible jobs too, but I was disappointed to see another businessman villain, but at least Corey Stoll delivered a good performance. The effects for when Ant-Man shrinks are the major highlight as the cinematography cleverly changes to give us a sense that we shrunk along with him into his micro adventures. My only criticisms about the film are minimal, including Paul Rudd’s Scott awkwardly interrupting as emotional moment between Hank Pym and his daughter Janet, and then there’s also Michael Peña’s Luis, who I’m growing to like, but at the same time, can be annoying, but that’s just me.

The Incredible Hulk (2008)

After the poor reception of the 2003 Hulk film directed by And Lee, Marvel Studios bought the audiences a much needed reboot with a better portrayal of Bruce Banner, less complicated, but still understandable character depth and exciting action scenes, but in all honestly, while this version is better than the previous film, the execution felt somewhat mixed for me. Don’t get wrong, Edward Norton did the better performance than Eric Bana, the chemistry between him and Liv Tyler’s Betty Ross felt much more believable and stronger than in the last one, and Hulk looked more ferocious than the 2003 version, but despite all that, this one still felt somewhat very passable, but not impactful. However, the post-end credits scene with Robert Downey, Jr. appearing as Tony Stark was a very unexpected surprise, as Marvel Studios at the time was planning a huge, huge surprise. Speaking of…

And now the #1 Best Marvel Cinematic Universe film is…

#1) The Avengers (2012)

The best way for me to describe The Avengers is this one sentence: it’s both the end of a great start and a start of all the many great things to come in the franchise. At the time, this was something no studio has ever attempted, as this was building up for several years and the big question remains: will it succeed? Well, the answer to that is yes. Not only critics and audiences praised the film, but it became one of the highest-grossing film of all time! Again, this was still unbelievable, seeing all these great characters exchange thoughts, banter, and teaming up in fight scenes, its a total dream come true for the many who grew up reading comics! This is how a comic book movie should feel like and Marvel Studios gave us just that. The story is very simple, but the overall execution is the golden result, all thanks to its director and co-writer, Joss Whedon, the creator of Firefly, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, and Dollhouse, so talk about a perfect choice, since he’s someone who’s well known to establish great character chemistry in his projects, so delivering that in Avengers was no exception! The cast of the film is everything, Robert Downey, Jr.’s bringing his wits as Tony Stark, Chris Evans bringing the strong moral backbone as Steve Rogers, Chris Hemsworth’s charisma as Thor, Tom Hiddleston’s scene-stealing flair and mischief as Loki, and the rest goes on, as every actor and actress delivers well as their respected characters as they all feel fully fleshed out and established since they were all previously introduced in the other films, all except Mark Ruffalo, taking Edward Norton’s place as Bruce Banner, who in my opinion, does the better performance, showing both the quiet and brilliant scientist, and at the same time, that emotional fragility from all that he’s through as the green-skinned monster Hulk, giving more depth in the role. Overall, Marvel Studios did the impossible, and from there on, the first phase has ended, but also started what’ll continue building up into the most successful film franchise of all time…

The Marvel Cinematic Universe franchise is everything comic book fans have dreamed of, from the proper portrayal of the characters, all played by a well-picked cast, incredible action sequences, talented directors and writers, quality production design of its sets and costumes, and well-established settings and world-building. And with Infinity War coming to theaters, Ant-Man and the Wasp on July, Captain Marvel on March 2019 and another Avengers sequel coming on May 2019, I’m very confident that the future of the franchise will continue to be a very bright one…