Immerse yourself in the expansive Marvel Cinematic Universe from the comfort of your home through Disney+. This platform hosts an impressive collection of blockbuster films, from epic team-ups like Avengers: Endgame to captivating exclusive series such as WandaVision and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the must-watch Marvel shows on Disney Plus, highlighting thrilling adventures, profound character arcs, and groundbreaking storytelling that have redefined superhero cinema.
Marvel Cinematic Universe Films Available on Disney+, Organized by Phase
Phase One: The Foundations of a Universe (2008–2012)
The inaugural phase of the MCU laid the groundwork for an interconnected saga, introducing iconic heroes whose individual stories converged in a spectacular ensemble. These films captivated audiences with innovative narratives, stunning visual effects, and charismatic performances that set new standards in the genre.
Iron Man (2008)
- Runtime: 126 minutes
- Director: Jon Favreau
- Key Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Terrence Howard, Gwyneth Paltrow
The film that ignited the MCU follows billionaire inventor Tony Stark, whose life takes a dramatic turn after a life-threatening ordeal. Harnessing his brilliant engineering prowess, he develops an advanced armored suit to combat global threats. Along the way, Stark confronts betrayal from within his inner circle, including a ruthless power grab by his former mentor Obadiah Stane. This origin story masterfully blends high-stakes action, sharp wit, and themes of redemption, establishing Tony Stark as the charismatic cornerstone of the franchise.
The Incredible Hulk (2008)
- Runtime: 112 minutes
- Director: Louis Leterrier
- Key Cast: Edward Norton, Liv Tyler, Tim Roth, William Hurt
Exploring the tormented psyche of scientist Bruce Banner, this entry delves into the consequences of a failed experiment that transforms him into the unstoppable Hulk when angered. On the run from military forces seeking to weaponize his power, Banner grapples with isolation and the monstrous force within. The film delivers pulse-pounding chase sequences and visceral battles while offering a poignant look at humanity’s struggle against uncontrollable rage.
Iron Man 2 (2010)
- Runtime: 124 minutes
- Director: Jon Favreau
- Key Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Don Cheadle, Scarlett Johansson, Gwyneth Paltrow
Building on the success of its predecessor, this sequel sees Tony Stark facing escalating pressures: government demands for his technology, personal health crises, and new adversaries like the vengeful Ivan Vanko. The introduction of S.H.I.E.L.D. elements and subtle nods to future heroes expand the universe, while explosive set pieces and evolving alliances deepen Stark’s journey toward becoming a true team player.
Thor (2011)
- Runtime: 115 minutes
- Director: Kenneth Branagh
- Key Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins
Expanding the MCU into cosmic realms, Thor chronicles the fall from grace of the arrogant Asgardian prince. Banished to Earth, he must prove his worthiness to wield Mjolnir while thwarting his brother’s schemes. Blending Shakespearean drama with mythological spectacle, the film introduces interstellar politics, sibling rivalry, and a heartfelt romance that grounds its god-like protagonist.
Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
- Runtime: 124 minutes
- Director: Joe Johnston
- Key Cast: Chris Evans, Hayley Atwell, Hugo Weaving, Tommy Lee Jones
Set against the backdrop of World War II, this patriotic origin tale transforms frail Steve Rogers into the super-soldier Captain America via an experimental serum. Leading the fight against Hydra’s sinister Red Skull, Rogers embodies unwavering moral integrity. The period setting, heartfelt camaraderie, and themes of sacrifice provide an emotional anchor for the emerging superhero coalition.
The Avengers (2012)
- Runtime: 143 minutes
- Director: Joss Whedon
- Key Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner
The phase’s triumphant culmination unites Earth’s mightiest heroes under Nick Fury’s initiative to repel Loki’s alien invasion. Clashing egos give way to synergistic teamwork in breathtaking battles across New York. This landmark crossover redefined ensemble filmmaking, balancing humor, heroism, and high-octane spectacle while teasing greater cosmic threats ahead.
Phase Two: Expansion and Intrigue (2013–2015)
Phase Two broadened the MCU’s scope, introducing new heroes, deepening lore, and exploring consequences of unity, all while escalating stakes with interdimensional and political conflicts.
Iron Man 3 (2013)
- Runtime: 130 minutes
- Director: Shane Black
- Key Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, Guy Pearce
Haunted by near-death experiences, Tony Stark battles anxiety and a terrorist mastermind known as the Mandarin. Stripped of his suits, he relies on ingenuity and resilience. This introspective chapter examines vulnerability beneath the armor, delivering clever twists and explosive holiday-themed action.
Thor: The Dark World (2013)
- Runtime: 112 minutes
- Director: Alan Taylor
- Key Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins
Thor races to prevent the ancient Dark Elves from plunging the Nine Realms into eternal darkness using a powerful artifact. Reuniting with Jane Foster amid familial betrayal, he navigates alliances and sacrifices. Rich in Asgardian mythology and portal-hopping battles, it amplifies cosmic wonder.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
- Runtime: 136 minutes
- Director: Anthony and Joe Russo
- Key Cast: Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie
A conspiracy thriller at heart, Steve Rogers uncovers corruption within S.H.I.E.L.D., facing a mysterious assassin tied to his past. Teaming with Black Widow and Falcon, he dismantles Hydra’s infiltration. Grounded espionage, intense hand-to-hand combat, and moral dilemmas elevate this political parable.
Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
- Runtime: 121 minutes
- Director: James Gunn
- Key Cast: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldaña, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper
A ragtag band of outlaws—Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot—unite to prevent a fanatic from unleashing a destructive orb. Infused with retro soundtrack vibes, irreverent humor, and heartfelt found-family dynamics, this space opera injected fresh energy into the MCU.
Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
- Runtime: 141 minutes
- Director: Joss Whedon
- Key Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, James Spader
Tony Stark’s peacekeeping AI evolves into the sentient threat Ultron, intent on human extinction. The expanded Avengers roster confronts global devastation, internal fractures, and new allies like Vision. Epic scale, philosophical debates on creation, and seismic team shifts mark this ambitious sequel.
Ant-Man (2015)
- Runtime: 117 minutes
- Director: Peyton Reed
- Key Cast: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Douglas, Corey Stoll
Reformed thief Scott Lang inherits shrinking technology from mentor Hank Pym to thwart a corporate villain’s misuse. Lighthearted heist elements, inventive size-shifting action, and family-centric themes offer a refreshing, smaller-scale contrast amid escalating universe threats.
Phase Three: Culmination and Transformation (2016–2019)
The most ambitious phase, featuring civil wars, mystical dimensions, cultural milestones, and universe-altering events that reshaped the MCU forever.
Captain America: Civil War (2016)
- Runtime: 147 minutes
- Directors: Anthony and Joe Russo
- Key Cast: Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan
Government oversight divides the Avengers, pitting Captain America against Iron Man in a ideological and physical clash. Introducing Black Panther and Spider-Man, this emotionally charged conflict explores accountability, friendship, and the cost of heroism.
Doctor Strange (2016)
- Runtime: 115 minutes
- Director: Scott Derrickson
- Key Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams, Tilda Swinton
Arrogant surgeon Stephen Strange loses everything in an accident, seeking mystical arts in the Himalayas. Mastering time manipulation and multiversal defenses, he becomes Sorcerer Supreme. Kaleidoscopic visuals and mind-bending metaphysics open magical frontiers.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
- Runtime: 136 minutes
- Director: James Gunn
- Key Cast: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldaña, Dave Bautista, Kurt Russell
Delving into Star-Lord’s heritage, the team encounters celestial entities and sovereign pursuits. Emotional depth, paternal revelations, and explosive familial bonds amplify the group’s dysfunctional charm.
Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
- Runtime: 133 minutes
- Director: Jon Watts
- Key Cast: Tom Holland, Michael Keaton, Robert Downey Jr., Zendaya
Young Peter Parker balances high school with neighborhood vigilantism, mentored yet restricted by Tony Stark. Facing the Vulture’s arms trafficking, he proves his mettle. Youthful exuberance and grounded stakes revitalize the web-slinger.
Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
- Runtime: 130 minutes
- Director: Taika Waititi
- Key Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Cate Blanchett, Mark Ruffalo
Imprisoned on a gladiatorial planet, Thor allies with Hulk and Loki against Hela’s apocalyptic reign. Vibrant humor, retro aesthetics, and themes of identity reinvent the thunder god’s saga.
Black Panther (2018)
- Runtime: 134 minutes
- Director: Ryan Coogler
- Key Cast: Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira
T’Challa ascends Wakanda’s throne, challenged by Killmonger’s revolutionary ideology. Celebrating Afro-futurism, intricate world-building, and profound socio-political commentary make this a cultural phenomenon.
Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
- Runtime: 149 minutes
- Directors: Anthony and Joe Russo
- Key Cast: Josh Brolin, Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, ensemble
Thanos’s quest for Infinity Stones forces a desperate alliance across heroes. Cataclysmic confrontations and shocking outcomes deliver unparalleled tension and tragedy.
Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
- Runtime: 118 minutes
- Director: Peyton Reed
- Key Cast: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Douglas, Hannah John-Kamen
Scott Lang teams with Hope van Dyne to rescue Janet from the Quantum Realm amid pursuit by elusive foes. Quantum physics antics and familial reconciliation provide breezy relief post-Infinity War.
Captain Marvel (2019)
- Runtime: 123 minutes
- Directors: Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck
- Key Cast: Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Mendelsohn
Set in the 1990s, Carol Danvers unlocks cosmic powers amid an intergalactic war, redefining her identity and allegiance. Empowering origin with nostalgic flair introduces a pivotal force.
Avengers: Endgame (2019)
- Runtime: 181 minutes
- Directors: Anthony and Joe Russo
- Key Cast: Ensemble cast
Survivors orchestrate a daring time heist to undo Thanos’s snap. Emotional farewells, triumphant reunions, and universe-resetting battles culminate the Infinity Saga in grand, heartfelt fashion.
Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
- Runtime: 129 minutes
- Director: Jon Watts
- Key Cast: Tom Holland, Zendaya, Jake Gyllenhaal, Samuel L. Jackson
Peter Parker vacations in Europe, recruited by Nick Fury against elemental illusions crafted by Mysterio. Grief, identity, and escalating responsibility mark this post-Endgame epilogue.
Phase Four: New Horizons and Multiversal Beginnings (2021 Onward)
Post-Endgame, Phase Four introduces diverse heroes, explores loss, and ventures into multiversal complexities via films and integrated Disney+ series.
Black Widow (2021)
- Runtime: 134 minutes
- Director: Cate Shortland
- Key Cast: Scarlett Johansson, Florence Pugh, David Harbour, Rachel Weisz
Natasha Romanoff confronts her espionage past, reuniting with surrogate family to dismantle the Red Room. Intense spy thrills and sisterly bonds deliver a long-awaited solo spotlight.
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
- Runtime: 132 minutes
- Director: Destin Daniel Cretton
- Key Cast: Simu Liu, Awkwafina, Tony Leung, Michelle Yeoh
Shang-Chi evades his father’s shadowy organization, mastering ancient rings and martial prowess. Stunning choreography, rich mythology, and Asian representation herald a dynamic new era.
Eternals (2021)
- Runtime: 156 minutes
- Director: Chloé Zhao
- Key Cast: Gemma Chan, Richard Madden, Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek
Immortal protectors awaken to defend humanity from Deviants, questioning their celestial mandate. Epic scope, philosophical inquiries, and diverse ensemble expand mythological depths.
This curated selection of Marvel shows on Disney Plus offers endless hours of exhilarating entertainment, intricate character development, and interconnected storytelling. Whether revisiting classics or discovering new chapters, Disney+ serves as the ultimate gateway to the MCU’s ever-evolving legacy. Dive in and experience the heroism, heartbreak, and spectacle that continue to captivate global audiences.