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Exploring the cosmic side of the MCU: what to know about Eternals and beyond

Delve into the cosmic saga of the Eternals and other celestial beings shaping the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Discover how these powerful entities intertwine with the beloved heroes we know, influencing the very fabric of reality. This article explores the rich tapestry of the MCU's cosmic side, from ancient protectors to intergalactic guardians.

Doctor Strange
Thor: Ragnarok
Black Panther

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has expanded far beyond Earth, introducing audiences to a vast and intricate cosmic landscape. From the ancient and powerful Eternals, who have secretly guided humanity for millennia, to the irreverent Guardians of the Galaxy, the MCU's cosmic ventures offer a unique blend of grand mythology and thrilling action. \n\nOne of the most fascinating aspects of these cosmic narratives is how they deepen our understanding of the MCU's overarching lore. For instance, the Eternals reveal a history of Earth tied to celestial beings and their cosmic mission, fundamentally altering our perception of the planet's place in the universe. Similarly, films like Doctor Strange and Thor: Ragnarok delve into mystical and mythological realms, showcasing the incredible diversity of powers and entities that exist beyond our comprehension. \n\nThese cosmic stories often explore themes of destiny, free will, and the immense power wielded by beings beyond human understanding. They push the boundaries of what we thought possible within the superhero genre, creating a sense of awe and wonder. Whether it's the sheer scale of Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, where cosmic threats converge, or the more intimate yet equally impactful journeys of characters like Captain Marvel and Shang-Chi, the cosmic side of the MCU continues to captivate. It's a testament to Marvel's ability to weave complex narratives that span galaxies while remaining deeply human at their core.

14. Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)

Rock out with Thor: Love and Thunder! Taika Waititi returns to direct, bringing his unique comedic flair and a whole lot of heart to Thor's latest cosmic adventure. This film sees the God of Thunder on a journey of self-discovery, encountering new threats and old flames.

Christian Bale delivers a chilling performance as Gorr the God Butcher, a truly terrifying villain. Natalie Portman makes a triumphant return as Jane Foster, now wielding Mjolnir as the Mighty Thor, adding a powerful new dynamic to the team. The movie's soundtrack is packed with Guns N' Roses hits, perfectly complementing its wild and colorful aesthetic. While it maintains Waititi's signature humor, it also tackles themes of loss, love, and finding purpose with surprising depth. It's a visually striking and often hilarious ride, with plenty of emotional resonance.

Thor: Love and Thunder

13. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

Get ready for the ultimate Spider-Man event with Spider-Man: No Way Home! This film broke the internet and shattered box office records, delivering an emotional and action-packed culmination of Tom Holland's Spider-Man trilogy. Directed by Jon Watts, it's a love letter to Spider-Man fans across generations.

Following the revelation of his identity, Peter Parker seeks Doctor Strange's help, leading to a spell gone wrong that rips open the multiverse and brings back villains (and heroes!) from previous Spider-Man iterations. The sheer joy and excitement of seeing these characters interact is palpable, but the film also grounds itself in Peter's personal struggles and growth. It's a masterclass in fan service done right, blending thrilling action with profound emotional stakes, making for an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Spider-Man: No Way Home

12. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)

Prepare for an extraordinary journey with Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings! This film introduced a brand-new hero to the MCU, played by the charismatic Simu Liu, and immersed audiences in a rich, fantastical world rooted in martial arts and Chinese mythology. Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, it's a visually stunning and deeply personal story.

The action sequences are truly exceptional, blending traditional wushu with modern superheroics, particularly the bus fight scene which is an instant classic! Tony Leung delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Wenwu, Shang-Chi's father and the true Mandarin, making him one of the MCU's most compelling antagonists. The film's exploration of family legacy, destiny, and finding your own power makes it a standout entry. It's a thrilling, funny, and culturally rich adventure that expands the MCU's horizons.

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings

11. Black Widow (2021)

Uncover the secrets of Natasha Romanoff in Black Widow! This long-awaited solo film finally gives Scarlett Johansson's character the spotlight she deserves, exploring her mysterious past and family dynamics. Directed by Cate Shortland, it's a grounded, spy-thriller entry into the MCU.

The film introduces Yelena Belova, played brilliantly by Florence Pugh, who quickly became a fan favorite with her witty banter and compelling bond with Natasha. David Harbour as Alexei Shostakov/Red Guardian and Rachel Weisz as Melina Vostokoff complete this unconventional family. Black Widow delivers intense fight choreography and car chases, while also delving into themes of trauma, sisterhood, and finding your own path. It's a fitting send-off for a character who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Black Widow

10. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)

Swing into action with Spider-Man: Far From Home! Following the earth-shattering events of Endgame, this film gives Peter Parker a much-needed European vacation, which, of course, quickly turns into a superhero mission. Tom Holland continues to shine as the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, grappling with the weight of responsibility.

The movie cleverly explores the aftermath of Thanos's snap and introduces Jake Gyllenhaal as Mysterio, a character whose illusions create some truly spectacular and disorienting action sequences. The dynamic between Peter, his friends Ned and MJ, and the enigmatic Mysterio drives the plot forward with humor and intrigue. It's a fun, globe-trotting adventure that perfectly balances teenage angst with high-stakes superheroics, setting up exciting new challenges for Peter Parker.

Spider-Man: Far From Home

9. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

Prepare for the culmination of an era with Avengers: Endgame! This film was more than just a movie; it was a cultural event, bringing a decade of interconnected storytelling to an incredibly satisfying and emotional conclusion. The Russo Brothers masterfully wove together every thread, delivering on years of anticipation.

Endgame is a true epic, balancing massive action sequences with deeply personal character moments. It explores themes of grief, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope. The performances from the entire ensemble cast are phenomenal, particularly Robert Downey Jr.'s Iron Man and Chris Evans' Captain America, whose journeys reach their poignant climaxes. The film is packed with callbacks, fan-service moments, and some of the most cheer-inducing sequences in cinematic history. It's a powerful and fitting end to the Infinity Saga.

Avengers: Endgame

8. Captain Marvel (2019)

Soar high with Captain Marvel! This film introduced one of the most powerful heroes in the MCU, Carol Danvers, portrayed with strength and swagger by Brie Larson. Set in the 1990s, it's a fantastic origin story that blends cosmic action with a compelling mystery.

The movie is packed with nostalgic 90s references and features a de-aged Samuel L. Jackson as a younger Nick Fury, which is a real treat to see. The dynamic between Carol and Fury is a highlight, full of banter and developing trust. The film also delves into the Kree-Skrull war, providing crucial background for the larger MCU narrative. Its themes of self-discovery and breaking free from manipulation resonate deeply, all while delivering thrilling aerial battles and a powerful message of empowerment.

Captain Marvel

7. Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)

Get ready for some pint-sized fun with Ant-Man and the Wasp! This sequel brought back the charming humor and innovative shrinking technology that made the first film a hit, while also introducing the awesome Hope van Dyne as the Wasp. Directed by Peyton Reed, it's a delightful palate cleanser after the intensity of Infinity War.

Paul Rudd's Scott Lang continues to be an incredibly relatable and funny hero, often finding himself in hilariously awkward situations. Evangeline Lilly shines as the Wasp, demonstrating incredible fighting skills and intelligence. The film's creative use of size manipulation, from tiny cars to giant Pez dispensers, makes for some truly inventive action sequences. It also delves deeper into the Quantum Realm, laying groundwork for future MCU developments. It's a lighthearted, witty, and surprisingly emotional adventure.

Ant-Man and the Wasp

6. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

Brace yourself for the epic scale of Avengers: Infinity War! This film was the culmination of a decade of storytelling in the MCU, bringing together almost every major character introduced so far to face their greatest threat: Thanos. The Russo Brothers delivered a truly ambitious and emotionally charged blockbuster.

The sheer scope of this movie is astounding, with multiple storylines converging across different planets and character groups. Josh Brolin's performance as Thanos is a standout; he's a complex and terrifying villain with a clear, albeit twisted, motivation. The film masterfully balances intense action sequences with moments of character development and genuine suspense. It's a high-stakes, relentless ride that left audiences on the edge of their seats and redefined what a superhero crossover could be.

Avengers: Infinity War

5. Black Panther (2018)

Wakanda Forever! Black Panther made an undeniable impact on global culture, becoming a cinematic phenomenon. Directed by Ryan Coogler, this film isn't just a superhero movie; it's a celebration of African culture, innovation, and identity. It broke barriers and set new standards for representation in blockbuster cinema.

Chadwick Boseman's portrayal of King T'Challa is iconic, embodying grace, strength, and a deep sense of responsibility. The supporting cast is equally stellar, with Lupita Nyong'o, Danai Gurira, and Letitia Wright delivering powerful performances. The costume design by Ruth E. Carter, which won an Oscar, is absolutely breathtaking, drawing inspiration from various African tribes. The film's score by Ludwig Göransson, also an Oscar winner, blends traditional African instruments with modern hip-hop beats, creating a unique and powerful soundscape. Black Panther is a triumph of storytelling, action, and cultural significance.

Black Panther

4. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

Get ready for a thunderous good time with Thor: Ragnarok! Taika Waititi completely reinvented the Thor franchise, injecting it with his signature comedic style and turning it into one of the most entertaining entries in the MCU. This film is a vibrant, hilarious, and action-packed cosmic road trip that revitalized the God of Thunder.

The movie sees Thor imprisoned on the planet Sakaar, forced to fight in a gladiatorial contest against an old friend, the Hulk! The chemistry between Chris Hemsworth and Mark Ruffalo is pure gold. Waititi himself voices the fan-favorite character Korg, adding even more humor. The film's unique aesthetic, inspired by Jack Kirby's cosmic artwork, and its incredible soundtrack featuring Led Zeppelin's 'Immigrant Song' make it an unforgettable experience. It's a joyous, laugh-out-loud adventure that shows a different, more whimsical side of the Asgardian prince.

Thor: Ragnarok

3. Doctor Strange (2016)

Prepare for a mind-bending journey with Doctor Strange! This film introduced the mystical side of the MCU, taking audiences on a visually spectacular ride through alternate dimensions and reality-bending magic. Benedict Cumberbatch perfectly embodies the arrogant surgeon Stephen Strange, whose life is irrevocably changed after a devastating accident.

The visual effects in this movie are truly groundbreaking, often compared to the psychedelic sequences in Inception but on a whole new level. Director Scott Derrickson, with his background in horror, brought a unique aesthetic to the magical realm, making it feel both awe-inspiring and slightly unsettling. Tilda Swinton's portrayal of the Ancient One is captivating, and the film's exploration of time manipulation through the Eye of Agamotto adds a fascinating layer to the MCU's powers. It's a visually stunning and intellectually engaging adventure.

Doctor Strange

2. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

Get ready to groove with Guardians of the Galaxy! This movie was a game-changer for the MCU, proving that even lesser-known comic characters could become global sensations. Director James Gunn masterfully blended irreverent humor, heartfelt moments, and a killer soundtrack to create something truly special. Who knew a talking raccoon and a walking tree could be so endearing?

The film's success is largely attributed to its incredible ensemble cast, with Chris Pratt leading the charge as Peter Quill/Star-Lord, Zoe Saldaña as the deadly Gamora, and the brilliant voice work of Bradley Cooper as Rocket and Vin Diesel as Groot. The Awesome Mix Vol. 1 became an instant classic, introducing a new generation to classic 70s and 80s tunes. It's an absolute blast from start to finish, redefining what a superhero movie could be with its unique charm and unexpected emotional depth.

Guardians of the Galaxy

1. Eternals (2021)

Dive into the cosmic epic of Eternals! This film stands out in the MCU for its truly unique vision, thanks to Oscar-winning director Chloé Zhao. She brought her signature naturalistic style to the superhero genre, often using practical locations and natural light, which gives the movie a breathtaking, almost ethereal feel. It's a bold departure, focusing on ancient, immortal beings who have secretly guided humanity for millennia.

The ensemble cast is phenomenal, featuring Salma Hayek as the wise Ajak, Angelina Jolie as the fierce Thena, and Kumail Nanjiani as Kingo, a Bollywood star with a secret identity – his character even performs an amazing dance number! Eternals delves deep into themes of destiny, free will, and what it truly means to protect humanity, even from celestial forces. It's a visually stunning and thought-provoking entry that expands the MCU's mythology in fascinating ways.

Eternals

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