The Marvel Homework Assignment: A Fan's Perspective on the Avengers: Doomsday Watchlist
Marvel has a knack for turning fandom into homework, and their latest assignment—a 15-movie, TV-show marathon for Avengers: Doomsday—is no exception. Personally, I think this is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it’s a curated roadmap for newcomers. On the other, it’s a reminder that the MCU is now so sprawling, even Marvel can’t expect us to remember every detail. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it reflects the studio’s evolving strategy: they’re not just selling a movie; they’re selling a universe, and they want you to feel like you’ve earned your seat in the theater.
The Obvious Picks: A Safety Net for Casual Fans
Let’s start with the no-brainers: Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame. These are the tentpoles, the emotional anchors of the MCU. But what’s interesting here is Marvel’s acknowledgment that these films are essentially a crash course in modern MCU lore. If you take a step back and think about it, this is Marvel admitting that not everyone has the time (or patience) to watch 38 films. It’s a pragmatic move, but it also raises a deeper question: are we reaching peak MCU fatigue?
The Deep Cuts: A Nod to the Die-Hards
Then there are the deep cuts—X-Men and X2—which feel like a love letter to fans who’ve been here since the Fox days. What many people don’t realize is that these inclusions aren’t just fan service; they’re a strategic bridge to the future. With Doctor Doom looming, Marvel is subtly reminding us that the X-Men’s legacy is now part of their playground. It’s a clever way to legitimize the multiverse without overwhelming newcomers.
Multiverse Madness: The Real Homework
The multiverse is where things get spicy. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and Loki are obvious picks, but Spider-Man: No Way Home feels like a wildcard. In my opinion, this is Marvel hinting at something bigger for Peter Parker. The Brand New Day post-credits scene isn’t just a throwaway—it’s a breadcrumb for what’s to come. What this really suggests is that Doomsday won’t just be about Doctor Doom; it’ll be about the multiverse’s ripple effects.
The Head-Scratchers: Why These Movies?
Now, let’s talk about the head-scratchers. The Avengers (2012) and Captain America: The First Avenger feel like filler. Personally, I think these inclusions are less about plot and more about nostalgia. Marvel wants us to reconnect with the MCU’s roots, even if Endgame already covered the emotional beats. It’s a sentimental choice, but one that feels out of place in a list meant to prepare us for the future.
The Omissions: What’s Missing and Why It Matters
What’s more interesting than what’s included is what’s left out. The Marvels and X-Men: Days of Future Past are glaring omissions. From my perspective, this is Marvel trying to avoid spoilers. If Doomsday leans heavily into Incursions, The Marvels would give away too much. And Days of Future Past? Its absence feels like another snub to the McAvoy-era X-Men, which is a shame.
The Bigger Picture: Where Is the MCU Headed?
If you take a step back and think about it, this watchlist isn’t just about Doomsday—it’s about the MCU’s next phase. Marvel is doubling down on the multiverse, timelines, and legacy characters. What this really suggests is that the MCU is becoming less about individual heroes and more about the universe itself. It’s a risky move, but one that could pay off if executed well.
Final Thoughts: Is This Homework Worth It?
Personally, I think this watchlist is a mixed bag. It’s a great starting point for newcomers, but for longtime fans, it feels like a greatest hits album with a few odd tracks. One thing that immediately stands out is Marvel’s awareness of its own complexity. They’re not pretending the MCU is simple—they’re leaning into the chaos.
If I had to give one piece of advice? Skip Captain America: Brave New World and just rewatch Endgame. It’s better advice all around.
What’s Next?
As we gear up for Doomsday, I can’t help but wonder: is this the beginning of the end, or just another chapter? Marvel’s homework assignment feels like a test—not just of our knowledge, but of our commitment. And in a world where every movie is a setup for the next, that’s a test worth taking.
