Marvel recommends essential films to watch before Avengers: The Apocalypse and sparks theories
Marvel Studios released, on August 17, 2026, a list of films and series considered essential for fans to review before the premiere of “Avengers: The Apocalypse”, expected in December. More than a simple guide, the selection generated discussions and speculation about characters and plot lines that have not yet been officially confirmed for the next big event in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The producer’s decision raises questions about the presence of heroes and villains that could surprise the public.
The Intention Behind Marvel’s Official List
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Marvel has been known to release similar slates on previous occasions, preparing viewers for major releases. However, the current selection stands out for including titles that do not feature any character already announced for “Avengers: The Apocalypse”, which encourages the fan community to develop new theories. The inclusion of these films suggests that they contain crucial clues about what is to come in the narrative.
Films and series recommended to understand Avengers: The Apocalypse
This is the complete list of productions that, according to Marvel, are essential to understanding the plot of the next Avengers film:
- X-Men (2000): Considered the gateway to Fox’s mutants in the cinematic universe.
- X2 (2003): Many point to it as one of the best films ever made in the X-Men franchise, setting a high standard.
- Captain America: The First Avenger (2011): Fundamental for involving Steve Rogers and Peggy Carter, as well as suggesting that they had a child together in an alternative timeline.
- The Avengers (2012): Ground zero for the group, which brought together Earth’s first heroes into a team.
- Avengers: Infinity War / Endgame (2018/2019): Two of the most impactful films in the MCU, containing decisive moments such as Steve Rogers’ time travel and Tony Stark’s sacrifice.
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- Loki Seasons 1-2 (2021-2023): The only series present on the list, emphasizing the importance of the character for the concept of the multiverse and the evolution of his divine powers.
- Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021): Introduces Shang-Chi, a character who will be present in “The Apocalypse” and has not had another appearance since his solo film.
- Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021): The inclusion is notable, as Tom Holland’s presence as Spider-Man in “The Apocalypse” has not yet been confirmed. The film intensely explores the multiverse, fueling theories about the return of Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man or an unexpected participation by the MCU hero.
- Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022): Relevant because it introduces crucial members of Wakanda, such as Shuri, M’Baku and Namor, who will have roles in the future of the saga.
- Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness (2022): Creates a mystery, as Doctor Strange and Scarlet Witch were not publicly announced for “The Apocalypse”. One theory suggests that they may secretly act as masked allies of Fate, with the latter’s identity being a major revelation.
- Deadpool and Wolverine (2024): The need to watch him suggests surprise appearances in “The Apocalypse”, especially with the strong expectation of Wolverine’s presence in “Secret Wars”.
- Thunderbolts* (2025): Presents the heterogeneous team that, in practice, positions itself as the “New Avengers”. Yelena Belova, played by Florence Pugh, is expected to have a significant role in the film.
- The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025): The introduction of the team, a fundamental part of “The Apocalypse”, makes this film a must-see for fans.
Omissions that fuel debate among MCU fans
Marvel’s list, while extensive, notably excluded some titles that many fans would consider essential. There is, for example, no Thor solo film, even though the character is one of the expected protagonists in “Avengers: The Apocalypse”. Furthermore, productions such as “Captain America: Civil War” and “X-Men: Days of Future Past” are often cited by viewers as important for the context, but were left out of the official selection.
The list also includes a curious assessment of “Captain America: Brave New World (2025)”, which the source itself criticizes as a disappointment for Marvel and one of the worst-rated films on Rotten Tomatoes. It is suggested that audiences skip this film and watch “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier”, which offers a better introduction to the Thunderbolts’ American Agent*.
The challenge of preparing for the new era of the MCU
With more than 50 hours of recommended content, including two complete seasons of the “Loki” series, the list presents a real challenge for fans who want to be fully caught up on “Avengers: The Apocalypse.” This scope reinforces Marvel’s strategy of interconnecting its narratives, transforming each production into a vital piece of the puzzle that will culminate in the next Avengers film.
