The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is a cinematic juggernaut that has consistently delivered blockbuster hits, captivating audiences with its larger-than-life superheroes and intricate storytelling.
While many of these films are celebrated upon their initial release, some of them reveal hidden depths and nuances that become more apparent with a second viewing.
Here are 10 Marvel movies that not only got better with time but deserve a second, third of hundredth viewing!
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
James Gunn’s second installment in the beloved Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy takes audiences on a journey into Peter Quill’s past. On a second viewing, the introduction of Ego the Living Planet as the primary villain gains a sinister edge.
Kurt Russell’s excellent performance takes on new dimensions, and the heartbreaking context surrounding Yondu’s sacrifice becomes even more heartbreaking.
Black Panther
Chadwick Boseman’s tragic passing makes it a timeless classic as it is the only solo film where he led as T’Challa. The film’s empowering story resonates even more profoundly in the wake of Boseman’s absence.
With the knowledge of T’Chaka’s actions and the true motivations of Killmonger, Michael B. Jordan’s performance as one of the MCU’s most poignant villains becomes even more remarkable.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Regarded as without a doubt, the best MCU solo film, The Winter Soldier is a moody spy thriller with a twisted narrative. On a second viewing, the pressure of understanding HYDRA’s infiltration is lifted, allowing viewers to appreciate the film’s political intrigue.
The subtle subtext woven into the storyline becomes a delicious layer of subtext for those willing to revisit this cinematic gem.
Captain America: Civil War
Civil War continues Steve Rogers’ saga with a spectacular crossover event. With the full knowledge of Baron Zemo’s plan, a second viewing unveils the brilliance of how he orchestrated the Avengers’ internal conflicts. Each character’s arc takes on new significance, and the film stands out as a masterful portrayal of superhero strife.
Spider-Man: Homecoming
Often overshadowed, Homecoming is an underrated street-level adventure that holds up to repeated viewings. The reveal of Micheal Keaton’s Adrian Toomes’ Vulture being Liz’s father is one of the most genuinely shocking twists in the entire MCU. Armed with this knowledge, the film’s timeless charisma and excellent action sequences become even more enjoyable.
Avengers: Infinity War
The culmination of a decade of careful planning, Infinity War is a movie event of epic proportions. On a second viewing without the burden of keeping up with character arcs, the film emerges as a climactic, daring superhero masterpiece that stands the test of time.
The intricate weaving of multiple storylines becomes clearer, allowing audiences to fully savor the culmination of the MCU’s first decade.
Iron Man 3
Tony Stark’s last solo film, Iron Man 3, sees the billionaire stripped of his armor and grappling with emotional fallout. While initially divisive, a second viewing allows for a more profound understanding of Tony’s struggle. The twist behind The Mandarin and Adrian Killian as the true villain takes on new meaning, making it a joy to revisit Stark’s journey.
Spider-Man: Far From Home
Mysterio’s role as a twist villain is evident on a second viewing, yet the breadcrumbs hinting at his true nature become more apparent. Understanding the illusions adds depth to the jaw-dropping fight scenes, transforming Far From Home into a film with layers that are easily missed on the first watch.
Captain Marvel
As an origin story with a complex setup, Captain Marvel benefits greatly from a second viewing. Armed with the knowledge of Vers’ amnesia, viewers can more easily digest the avalanche of information presented. The film’s intricate details, from the Supreme Intelligence to the Kree-Skrull conflict, become more accessible and enrich the overall experience.
Eternals
Widely considered one of the weaker MCU entries, Eternals deserves a second chance. The dense narrative and nuanced relationships between the Eternals unfold more gracefully, revealing easy-to-miss character moments. While it may be on the lower end of the MCU’s quality spectrum, a re-watch allows Eternals to stand as a worthy entry in the franchise.
