Spoiler warning: This article contains spoilers for “Black Panther,” “Thor: Ragnarok” and “Guardians of the Galaxy.”
Since 2008 when Marvel released its first movie “Iron Man,” they have released over 30 more movies. Some have complained that there is too much prior knowledge required to watch Marvel movies, but these movies are reasons people have been so enticed with them.
“Black Panther” (2018) – Ryan Coogler
Though this is not the first movie the Black Panther appears in, it is where the audience gets a better understanding of him and his compassion. Part of what makes the movie so interesting is how nuanced the debate of vibranium within Wakanda is. Their tradition was to keep their technology secret for their sake, but Killmonger took the extreme of the opposite side. The fundamental aspect of the debate is something that will always continue to echo whether to continue or break tradition. The goal was to help others who were in need and disadvantaged. When Killmonger won the challenge for the throne against T’Challa, it forced people to take sides by staying loyal to the throne or protecting the rest of the world, tearing the country apart. After T’Challa has defeated Killmonger, he makes an effort to share the gifts of Wakanda with the rest of the world, showing that he is open-minded.
“Thor: Ragnarok” (2017) – Taika Waititi
What makes this film great is the symbolism and emotion. Including two strong female leads, though one of them may be a villain, is a feat few Marvel movies have accomplished. Valkyrie even later becomes the ruler of New Asgard. After Bruce Banner realizes he has been the Hulk for the past two years, he becomes fearful over his lack of control but later overcomes it out of necessity to save the Asgardians. The symbolism of Thor’s haircut represents his transformation while grieving his father, the destruction of his hammer and the impending doom of his homeland Asgard. As he channels these emotions, he grows stronger and learns to use his powers without the hammer Mjolnir. Thor also rebuilds his relationship with his brother Loki to be stronger than it was before. By the end of the movie, Thor has found himself and his confidence again as symbolized by the reprise of “Immigrant Child” by Led Zeppelin.
“Guardians of the Galaxy” (2014) – James Gunn
One thing this movie is well known for is its soundtrack. To Peter Quill, music is his connection to his mother. The beginning shows that he considers himself independent even from Yondu when he retrieves the orb behind his back. Almost instantly after Rocket, Groot, Quill and Gamora were arrested together, they quickly formed an unspoken alliance. Drax’s joining caused more conflict within the group, but ultimately they still get along well and laugh together. Their bond over the loss of loved ones caused them to connect quickly and they became each other’s found family. Going through their journey, they teach each other to become better people and do the right thing, including risking their lives for each other.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is popular for a reason, and these movies show why they have garnered so much success. Within these stories full of action, each one also provides emotion and humor to make them memorable.
