It's that time again, folks! Marvel has released a watchlist of 15 movies and TV shows you should watch before the highly anticipated 'Avengers: Doomsday' hits the screens on December 18. This list is a must-read for any Marvel fan, as it provides a comprehensive guide to the MCU's rich history and the characters that will be crucial to the upcoming blockbuster. But here's the twist: it's not just about the obvious choices. Marvel has included some deep cuts and lesser-known gems that will enrich your understanding of the universe and the characters you love. So, grab your notebooks and get ready to dive into the world of Marvel! Here's a breakdown of the watchlist, with my personal commentary and analysis:
The Obvious Choices
Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame: These are the obvious picks, as they set the stage for the final showdown with Thanos and provide crucial context for the upcoming events. But don't skip them just because you've seen them a dozen times! They're essential for understanding the stakes and the emotional journey of the characters.
Thunderbolts/The New Avengers and The Fantastic Four: First Steps: These movies introduce key characters and teams that will play significant roles in 'Avengers: Doomsday'. They're worth watching for the character development and the setup for the larger story.
Shang-Chi and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever: These films showcase the diversity of the MCU and the strength of its characters. They're essential for understanding the cultural significance and the global impact of the Avengers.
The Multiversal Twist
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and Loki: These projects delve into the multiverse, a concept that will be central to 'Avengers: Doomsday'. They provide a deeper understanding of the incursive events and the characters' motivations.
Spider-Man: No Way Home: This film is a multiversal twist on the Spider-Man franchise, and it's a fascinating exploration of the consequences of altering reality. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in the multiverse and its implications.
The Deep Cuts and Surprises
X-Men and X2: These Fox films are deep cuts, but they're essential for understanding the relationship between the X-Men and the Avengers. They provide a different perspective on the superhero genre and the challenges faced by mutant characters.
Captain America: The First Avenger: While it sets up the relationship between Steve Rogers and Peggy Carter, it's not as crucial as the other films. However, it's still a great watch for the character development and the historical context.
Personal Recommendations
As an avid Marvel fan, I'd like to add a few more recommendations to the list:
The Marvels: This film deals heavily with the multiverse and incursive events, and its absence from the list is a surprise. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in the multiversal narrative.
X-Men: Days of Future Past: Another surprising omission, this film is a time-traveling adventure that explores the consequences of altering the past. It's a fascinating exploration of the X-Men's timeline and their relationship with the Avengers.
The Omitted Gems
Some omissions are understandable, such as the absence of Guardians of the Galaxy films (the team is now disbanded/reformed/sitting this one out entirely) and Wandavision (RIP). However, the cancellation of Wonder Man is still a disappointment.
In conclusion, Marvel's 'Avengers: Doomsday' watchlist is a comprehensive guide to the MCU's rich history and the characters that will be crucial to the upcoming blockbuster. It's a must-read for any Marvel fan, and I encourage you to dive into the list and explore the universe's depths. So, grab your notebooks and get ready for the ultimate Marvel adventure!
