Ranking All 12 Marvel Cinematic Universe Phase 5 Releases to Date

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is nearing the end of its Phase 5, which will wrap up in 2025. In contrast to the iconic Infinity Saga, which firmly established the MCU as the leading franchise in cinematic history, the current Multiverse Saga has sparked a mix of excitement and skepticism among fans and critics alike. Despite some outstanding releases during this ongoing phase, the franchise has encountered significant challenges and critiques.

Following the highly scrutinized Phase 4, Phase 5 appears to be a recovery phase for the MCU. By reevaluating its approach to television shows and allowing more thorough development for its cinematic projects, Marvel aims to set its upcoming endeavors—such as Thunderbolts and Ironheart, scheduled for mid-2025—for success. An analysis of the Phase 5 offerings thus far reveals both achievements and missteps in Marvel’s recent trajectory.

12 I Am Groot Season 2

Animated Shorts – Released In September 2023

I Am Groot, a series of delightful animated shorts featuring Baby Groot, holds a special charm, albeit one that appeals primarily to younger audiences. While the second season continues the lighthearted adventures of its iconic character, its lack of deeper substance positions it lower on the list of Phase 5 projects.

The season concludes with a surprising twist involving Jeffrey Wright’s Watcher from What If…?, who serves as the narrator for the finale, injecting a dose of unexpected depth into the cute escapades.

11 Secret Invasion

Live-Action Series – Released In June 2023

Regrettably, Secret Invasion has emerged as one of the series’ more heavily critiqued offerings. Marketed as a grounded spy thriller, it struggles to deliver excitement and depth over its six episodes. Notably, Samuel L. Jackson’s Nick Fury finally takes the center stage, yet the show’s pacing feels rushed, culminating in a finale laden with CGI that detracts from its narrative potency.

Although certain character interactions, such as those between Fury and Rhodey, have garnered praise, the execution was muddied by ill-timed plot twists and shock-value deaths, including that of Cobie Smulders’ Maria Hill.

10 Echo

Live-Action Series – Released In January 2024

Marking a departure from typical MCU storytelling, Echo is the franchise’s inaugural TV-MA series and exhibits a willingness to explore darker themes. With intense fight scenes and compelling character arcs—especially involving Daredevil and Kingpin—the show demonstrates Marvel’s potential for more adult-oriented narratives.

While the presence of beloved characters promises excitement, the overall execution falters, primarily due to its abbreviated season that leaves critical moments feeling compressed and underexplored.

9 What If…? Season 3

Animated Series – Released In December 2024

What If…? remains a unique addition to the MCU; however, while its first two seasons exhibited a mixture of highs and lows, season three struggles to capture the same charm. The lack of engaging scenarios diminishes its overall appeal, with some segments leaning heavily into lightheartedness at the expense of deeper storytelling.

In its concluding season, the show wraps up character arcs adequately, providing a satisfying resolution for fan-favorites like The Watcher and Captain Carter, even if the journey has not been as riveting.

8 Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

Animated Series – Released In January 2025 (Still Airing)

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man has just begun its inaugural season, but its early episodes have garnered attention, warranting a place above previous Phase 5 projects so far. The series, imbued with love for the Spider-Man mythos, brilliantly incorporates references to the wider MCU and features both classic and new characters.

While the show is still unfolding and its animation style has its limitations, it has the potential to climb the ranks as more storylines are revealed and developed throughout the season.

7 Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania

Movie – Released In February 2023

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania has faced considerable backlash, primarily due to its attempt to establish Kang the Conqueror as Marvel’s next major antagonist. Despite the compelling performance of Jonathan Majors, the film fell short due to a reliance on CGI that detracted from its authenticity.

Despite these shortcomings, the film offers moments of character-driven storytelling, including the touching dynamics within the Lang family and Janet van Dyne’s intriguing connection to Kang. Unfortunately, missteps in portrayals—such as the treatment of MODOK—prevent the film from achieving its intended impact.

6 The Marvels

Movie – Released In November 2023

Despite being labeled as a box office disappointment, The Marvels is not devoid of merit. While it faced criticism over its unremarkable antagonist, Dar-Benn, the film thrives on the chemistry between its lead characters: Captain Marvel, Ms. Marvel, and Monica Rambeau.

Exploring the cosmic dimensions of the MCU, the sequel manages to set the stage for future developments, including introductions to a new X-Men universe and hints toward the anticipated Young Avengers storyline.

5 Agatha All Along

Live-Action Series – Released In September 2024

Agatha All Along marks a significant creative triumph within Phase 5, exploring the mystical realm of the MCU through the eyes of Agatha Harkness, played by Kathryn Hahn. This series masterfully weaves together elements from the beloved WandaVision, demonstrating both humor and depth.

Interest surrounding Agatha’s character has fueled this spin-off, made more captivating through intricate plot developments and the introduction of pivotal characters like Wiccan and Lady Death, which effectively advances the overarching narrative of the MCU.

4 What If…? Season 2

Animated Series – Released In December 2023

Season two of What If…? has managed to uplift the animated series by delivering more sophisticated storytelling and compelling crossovers compared to its predecessor.This season embraces the limitless possibilities inherent in the multiverse concept, crafting original characters and expanding the narrative scope beyond previous limits.

Each episode displays a delightful blend of major and minor MCU characters, culminating in a satisfying conclusion for key story arcs, including the significant journey of Strange Supreme.

3 Loki Season 2

Live-Action Series – Released In October 2023

Loki Season 2 proves to be a remarkable continuation of a beloved narrative, with its return further solidifying the character’s significance within the MCU. Demonstrating a seamless transition from its predecessor, season two delves deeper into the complexities of the Multiverse Saga and the implications of time manipulation.

Both character development and plot progression are expertly handled, culminating in a satisfying resolution for the characters, particularly resulting in Loki’s role as the multiverse protector. This demonstrates how Marvel can excel in producing compelling live-action series without feeling rushed.

2 Deadpool & Wolverine

Movie – Released In July 2024

Deadpool & Wolverine represents an exciting fusion of Marvel’s cinematic landscape as Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman reprise their iconic roles. Bridging the narratives from Fox’s previous X-Men films with the MCU, this movie stands as one of the most anticipated and celebrated installments within the franchise.

The film excels in its selected cameos and features a well-crafted ensemble of characters, further enriched by the undeniable chemistry between its leads. The humor and emotional depth not only satisfy long-time fans but also effectively develop Wolverine’s character into a more heroic figure by the denouement.

1 Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol.3

Movie – Released In May 2023

At the top of the list, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3 stands as a testament to James Gunn’s creativity and storytelling prowess. Serving as the emotional culmination of the Guardians trilogy, this installment delves into long-anticipated narratives while exploring Rocket Raccoon’s poignant backstory.

This movie is a rollercoaster of emotions, balancing heartfelt moments with comedic relief, ultimately providing a fitting conclusion to the Guardians’ narrative arc while establishing new paths for future storytelling within the MCU.

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