Marvel Studios recently released a list of productions from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) that fans should watch before the premiere of “Avengers: Doomsday”, scheduled for December 2026. The selection, released on August 17, 2026, generated discussions and raised theories about possible revelations and the inclusion of characters not yet officially confirmed for the long-awaited film.

A strategic list of possible hidden revelations

Unlike previous lists, this compilation is considered strategic by experts and fans, due to some choices that seem to go beyond a simple chronological review. There are films and series with characters already announced for “Doomsday”, but there are also titles whose connection to the next Avengers film is still a mystery. This unusual curation suggests that Marvel may be planting clues about the plot, the multiverse, and the fate of important figures.

Films and series that point to the future of the Marvel universe

The list is made up of a wide range of titles, which cover the history of heroes and villains. Each entry appears to have a specific purpose, ranging from introducing crucial figures to exploring concepts like the multiverse central to “Doomsday.”

• X-Men (2000) and X2 (2003):They feature Fox’s mutants, indicating a deeper integration of these characters into the MCU canon and perhaps a larger role in “Doomsday.”

• Captain America: The First Avenger (2011):It focuses on Steve Rogers and Peggy Carter, whose stories and the existence of a son are important to the context of the Avengers.

• The Avengers (2012):The team’s initial milestone, essential to understanding the journey of the original heroes.

• Avengers: Infinity War (2018):Crucial films that culminate in the death of Tony Stark and the passing of the Captain America mantle to Sam Wilson, setting up key events.

• Avengers: Endgame (2019)

• Loki Seasons 1 and 2 (2021-2023):The only series on the list, which highlights the relevance of Disney+ productions to the larger MCU. Loki, now with divine powers, could have a surprising role. Interestingly, no Thor solo film was included, despite its importance.

• Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021):It introduces the character Shang-Chi, who is confirmed in “Doomsday” but has not appeared in other productions since.

• Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021):While there is no official confirmation of a Spider-Man in “Doomsday,” the film does explore the multiverse. Rumors indicate the possibility of an appearance by Tobey Maguire or Tom Holland, with speculation about a fatal confrontation with Doctor Doom (Doom).

• Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022):It highlights Shuri, M’Baku and Namor, important members of the nation of Wakanda who will be in “Doomsday”, but whose roles have not yet been detailed.

• Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022):Another production centered on the multiverse, but the public absence of Doctor Strange and Scarlet Witch in “Doomsday” raises the theory that they could be masked allies of Doctor Doom.

• Deadpool & Wolverine (2024):The inclusion hints at surprise appearances in “Doomsday” or, at the very least, the setup for Wolverine to have a significant role in “Secret Wars.”

• Captain America: Brave New World (2025):Despite it being one of the lowest-rated films, Marvel kept it on the list.

• Thunderbolts* (2025):It features the team of anti-heroes, who, through a public relations campaign, are called the “New Avengers”. Yelena Belova (Black Widow) will have a prominent role.

• Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025):The first official introduction of the Fantastic Four, a group vital to the events of “Doomsday.”

Featured theories and mysterious characters

The absence of certain confirmations for “Doomsday” in films on the list, such as Spider-Man and Doctor Strange, has fueled the emergence of several theories. The speculation that Doctor Doom could kill Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man in Sam Raimi’s universe is one of the most discussed. Another theory points to Doctor Strange and Scarlet Witch as potential secret allies of the villain Doctor Doom, a twist that would certainly surprise viewers. The inclusion of X-Men films and “Deadpool & Wolverine” also reinforces the expectation that the multiverse will bring iconic figures that will transcend the already established MCU universes.

Fan reactions and additional suggestions

Marvel’s official list, although comprehensive, did not escape criticism and suggestions from fans, who pointed out the absence of productions such as some Thor films, “Captain America: Civil War” and “X-Men: Days of Future Past”. Even with the discussion about the omissions, Marvel’s proposal is clear: prepare the public for the complexity and scale of “Avengers: Doomsday”. With more than 50 hours of content, including two full seasons of “Loki,” viewers have approximately four months to catch up before the big premiere.