Which Marvel Movies Do I Need to See Before Endgame?

With the release of Avengers: Endgame, fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the epic conclusion to the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) Infinity Saga. If you’re new to the Marvel movies or have missed a few along the way, you may be wondering which films are essential to watch before diving into Endgame.

Fear not, true believer! In this article, we’ll break down the key movies that will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of this monumental cinematic event.

The Avengers Trilogy: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes

To fully appreciate the events leading up to Endgame, it’s crucial to watch The Avengers, Avengers: Age of Ultron, and Avengers: Infinity War. These films showcase the formation and evolution of Earth’s mightiest heroes as they confront powerful threats that could destroy humanity.

The Avengers (2012)

Plot: Loki, Thor’s mischievous brother, seeks to conquer Earth using an otherworldly army.
Key Characters: Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow, Hawkeye
Why it’s Important: This movie marks the first time these iconic heroes come together as a team and sets the stage for future conflicts.

Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

Plot: Tony Stark creates an artificial intelligence named Ultron that becomes sentient and plans to eradicate humanity.
Key Characters: Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow, Hawkeye
Why it’s Important: Age of Ultron introduces new heroes and lays the groundwork for the Infinity Stones storyline.

Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

Plot: Thanos, a powerful cosmic being, seeks to collect all six Infinity Stones to reshape the universe to his will.
Key Characters: Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow, Hawkeye, Guardians of the Galaxy
Why it’s Important: Infinity War is a culmination of everything that came before it and directly sets up the events of Endgame.

The Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Adventures

The Guardians of the Galaxy films provide a cosmic perspective and introduce colorful characters who become entangled in the battle against Thanos. While not as crucial as The Avengers trilogy, these movies add depth and humor to the overall narrative.

Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

Plot: A group of misfits band together after stealing a mysterious orb coveted by Ronan the Accuser.
Key Characters: Star-Lord/Peter Quill, Gamora, Drax the Destroyer, Rocket Raccoon, Groot
Why it’s Important: Guardians of the Galaxy introduces characters who play significant roles in both Infinity War and Endgame.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)

Plot: The Guardians embark on a journey to uncover Peter Quill’s mysterious parentage.
Key Characters: Star-Lord/Peter Quill, Gamora, Drax the Destroyer, Rocket Raccoon, Groot
Why it’s Important: This film further develops the dynamics among the Guardians and sets up their involvement in the fight against Thanos.

The Standalone Films: Heroes Rising

In addition to The Avengers and Guardians of the Galaxy movies, several standalone films provide crucial character development and context for Endgame.

Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)

Plot: Steve Rogers becomes Captain America during World War II and battles against Hydra, a Nazi science division.
Key Characters: Captain America, Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier
Why it’s Important: This movie establishes Captain America’s origins and introduces key supporting characters.

Captain Marvel (2019)

Plot: Carol Danvers becomes one of the universe’s most powerful heroes while caught in an intergalactic conflict between two alien races.
Key Characters: Captain Marvel
Why it’s Important: Captain Marvel is set in the ’90s but provides essential background information about Nick Fury and introduces a pivotal character for Endgame.

While watching all the Marvel movies is undoubtedly an incredible journey, this list covers the essential films that will ensure you’re fully prepared for the dramatic conclusion of Avengers: Endgame. So grab some popcorn, assemble your friends, and get ready to witness the epic finale of the Infinity Saga!