Over the last 5 years or so, comic book based films have exploded into the collective awareness of theater goers everywhere. From Batman and Superman, to anti-hero protagonists such as The Punisher and Deadpool, these films are revolutionizing the concept of a character "Universe" in which all the films, heroes and villains, and settings take place within one giant world. It can be daunting to try and figure everything out but fortunately you can learn a lot through these 3 basic concepts. Here is the beginners guide to superhero movies.
- Start with Iron Man
Iron man begins the creation of the Marvel Universe in which you are introduced to Tony Stark, the genius billionaire scientist who is revolutionizing the military with the creation of his new weaponry. In this first film, you see the rise of Stark Industries as well as the creation of Iron Man. As the plot twists and turns between fighting terrorism on a global scale, betrayal within its own ranks, and conflict with the government and other superhero organizations, you begin to build the world and cities in which we find many of the comic book stories.
- Captain America: The First Avenger
After Iron Man 1 and 2, The Hulk, and Thor, you are introduced to the concept of the Avengers with the introduction to Captain America in his first film. Steve Rogers, the main character, wants to do his duty and help America fight their war against the Nazis. He is directed over and over again until he is accepted into a super soldier program that turns him into Captain America. Leading the fight against the HYDRA corp, Captain America takes on evil and becomes the first Avenger in the series.
- Guardians of the Galaxy
In 2014, Guardians of the Galaxy would go on to become a huge blockbuster hit. Incorporating many of new characters from the Marvel Universe, this film also expands the potential for worlds as well as incorporates a new flavor of humor and brevity into it. It links and ties the world of Thor into other films and maintains many storylines from other films. With its humor, incredible weaponry, jokes, and amazing soundtrack- Guardians of the Galaxy took the Universe to a whole different direction and depth.
- Daredevil
Not all Marvel story lines come in theater movies. Some became very popular series' on internet film streaming websites. Daredevil became an instant hit with its hard hitting plot lines, back stories, and fantastic acting. Taking place in new cities and expanding the protagonists' worlds and settings, these different sets of series did a great job setting up for later movies.
- Spider-Man Homecoming
Spider-Man Homecoming, although not the latest film, seems to be the most recent in terms of building the Marvel universe. Peter Parker is chasing to utilize his new found spidey senses for good. However, with great power comes great responsibility and Peter begins to realize that being Spider-Man is more than just using your powers, it takes maturity, self-control, discipline, and decision making skills that no mere teenager- regardless of super powers and capabilities- can make on their own.
If you love comic-book based films, use this guide to get you watching in the proper order to maximize your understanding.