The Marvel Homework Assignment: A Fan’s Perspective on Avengers: Doomsday
Marvel has a knack for turning fandom into homework, and the latest assignment is a doozy. With Avengers: Doomsday on the horizon, the studio has dropped a watchlist of 15 movies and TV shows to prepare us for what’s being billed as a ‘Phase Zero’ reset of the MCU. Personally, I think this is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it’s a curated path for newcomers. On the other, it’s a reminder that Marvel’s storytelling has become so sprawling that even a ‘reset’ requires a crash course in its history.
The Obvious Picks: A Safe Bet or a Creative Cop-Out?
Let’s start with the no-brainers: Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame. These are the crown jewels of the MCU, and their inclusion is expected. But what’s fascinating is how Marvel leans on these films as a crutch. If you take a step back and think about it, this suggests that even the studio views these movies as the ultimate primer for any major event. It’s almost as if they’re saying, ‘If you’ve seen Endgame, you’re 80% ready for anything.’
Then there’s Thunderbolts and Shang-Chi, which are obvious choices given their ties to the characters and teams set to face Doctor Doom. But here’s where it gets interesting: Marvel is clearly doubling down on the idea that Doomsday will be a team effort, not a solo hero’s journey. What this really suggests is that the MCU is moving away from individual narratives and toward ensemble storytelling. It’s a smart move, especially as the franchise ages and needs to keep things fresh.
The Deep Cuts: A Nod to the Past or a Play for Nostalgia?
Now, let’s talk about the deep cuts. X-Men and X2 are on the list, which feels like a nod to the pre-Disney era of Marvel. What many people don’t realize is that these films, despite their age, laid the groundwork for the multiverse concepts we see today. Their inclusion isn’t just fan service—it’s a strategic reminder that Marvel’s roots run deeper than the MCU.
Similarly, Spider-Man: No Way Home makes the cut, and I find this especially interesting. The film’s post-credits scene hints at a ‘Brand New Day’ for Peter Parker, which could tie directly into Doomsday. If you ask me, this is Marvel’s way of saying, ‘The multiverse isn’t just a gimmick—it’s the future of our storytelling.’
The Surprising Additions: Filling Gaps or Overcomplicating Things?
Here’s where things get a bit head-scratching. The Avengers (2012) and Captain America: The First Avenger are on the list, which feels redundant. Personally, I think these inclusions are more about emotional resonance than plot necessity. Steve Rogers and Peggy Carter’s relationship is important, sure, but Endgame already covered that ground. This raises a deeper question: Is Marvel overestimating how much fans need to be spoon-fed, or are they just playing it safe?
Then there’s Loki and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, which are obvious picks for anyone familiar with multiversal shenanigans. But what’s intriguing is the absence of The Marvels, which deals heavily with Incursions. This omission feels like a missed opportunity, especially if Doomsday leans into those concepts. It’s almost as if Marvel is hedging its bets, focusing on what’s already popular rather than what’s narratively essential.
The Bigger Picture: What Does This Watchlist Really Mean?
If you take a step back and think about it, this watchlist isn’t just a guide—it’s a statement. Marvel is acknowledging that its universe is too vast to ignore, even when trying to ‘reset’ it. But it’s also a reminder that the MCU is becoming increasingly insular. By curating this list, they’re essentially saying, ‘You don’t need to watch everything, but you do need to watch these things.’
From my perspective, this is both a strength and a weakness. On one hand, it makes the MCU more accessible. On the other, it risks alienating casual fans who don’t want to do homework just to enjoy a movie. What this really suggests is that Marvel is walking a tightrope between continuity and accessibility—and Doomsday will be the test of whether they can keep their balance.
Final Thoughts: A Watchlist or a Wishlist?
At the end of the day, this watchlist feels less like a requirement and more like a wishlist. Marvel wants us to engage with their universe on their terms, but they also know that not everyone has the time (or patience) to do so. Personally, I think the best approach is to treat this list as a starting point, not a rulebook. Watch Endgame, catch up on the multiverse stuff, and maybe throw in a deep cut or two for good measure.
But here’s the real takeaway: Marvel isn’t just preparing us for Doomsday—they’re preparing us for the future of the MCU. This watchlist is a roadmap, not just for this film, but for where the franchise is headed. And if you ask me, that’s the most exciting part of all.
