The Marvel Cinematic Universe, a sprawling epic that covers decades and introduces a plethora of characters from chatty raccoons to Russian spies, boasts an impressive 36 films.
At last, superhero enthusiasts and comic book aficionados can rest easy as Rotten Tomatoes has finally settled a long-standing argument by ranking the MCU films based on feedback from bona fide viewers.
From iconic origin stories that brought our beloved heroes to life to box office smashes that shattered records, the top ten list features a diverse array of cinematic gems.
Leveraging the trusted Tomatometer, Rotten Tomatoes has compiled an aggregate score from audience reviews, with some movies scoring an almost flawless 96%, while others hover at a modest 46%.
The rankings may raise eyebrows among fans, yet many will rejoice to discover that the 2018 sensation Black Panther reigns supreme at the pinnacle of the list, reports the Mirror US.
Black Panther not only ignited renewed fervour for the Marvel Cinematic Universe but also made history as the first film in their roster to snag an Oscar.
Hot on its heels is none other than Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame, which boasts a stellar review score of 94%. This cinematic titan not only held the title of the world’s highest-grossing film for years but also won over fans instantly, earning accolades as « one of the best movies of the genre. »
In a surprising twist, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings has swooped into the top 10 at number seven, with fans giving the 2021 hit a smashing 92%. This Marvel Cinematic Universe instalment had its work cut out facing stiff competition within the franchise.
A glowing review claimed: « Shang-Chi is a breath of fresh air in the MCU, blending martial arts action, heartfelt storytelling, and stunning visuals. Simu Liu shines in the lead role, bringing charm, depth, and humor.
« The fight choreography is some of the best Marvel has ever done, and the cultural representation adds a rich, meaningful layer. It’s exciting, emotional, and fun from start to finish. Nearly perfect-just wanted a bit more from the villain. Still, a top-tier Marvel experience! ».
Sharing their enthusiasm, another film buff said: « Shang Chi is an emotional and action-packed movie that you will thoroughly enjoy. It introduces a well-built father-son dynamic, has amazing action sequences that utilize Kung Fu very well, and introduces a magical world in an intriguing way. »
Despite high praise for the web-slinging sequel, Spider-Man’s 2017 outing Spider-Man: Homecoming swung into fifth place.
Tom Holland’s portrayal of the beloved Spidey has certainly won over fans as they have awarded the film a spectacular 93% rating.
Many viewers on Rotten Tomatoes have hailed this film as their « favourite » among the Marvel films. One enthusiast declared it’s « the most ambitious, action-packed, and emotionally satisfying live-action Spider-Man movie ever made. »
For those wondering which film didn’t quite hit the mark, the lowest-rated film garnered an overall score of 46%, based on reviews. The 2023 release Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania, featuring Paul Rudd as the charismatic hero, has been voted by fans as the worst film in the MCU.
Every marvel film ranked by Rotten Tomatoes
- Black Panther (2018)
- Avengers: Endgame (2019)
- Iron Man (2008)
- Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
- Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
- Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
- Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
- Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
- Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
- Marvel’s the Avengers (2012)
- Captain America: Civil War (2016)
- Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
- Doctor Strange (2016)
- Thunderbolts* (2025)
- Ant-Man and The Wasp (2018)
- Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
- Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
- Ant-Man (2015)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
- Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
- Captain Marvel (2019)
- Black Widow (2021)
- Iron Man 3 (2013)
- Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)
- Thor (2011)
- Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
- Iron Man 2 (2010)
- Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
- The Incredible Hulk (2008)
- Thor: The Dark World (2013)
- Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)
- The Marvels (2023)
- Captain America: Brave New World (2025)
- Eternals (2021)
- Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania (2023)
To revisit some of the most discussed films of our era or to begin with your own superhero favourites, a selection of Marvel films are now available for streaming on Disney+.
