The Marvel Cinematic Universe is well-known around the world for producing some of the highest-grossing films ever, with all of the characters becoming household names. Marvel animated films, on the other hand, have been disregarded. Some of them missed the mark, but others nailed it, making them animated films that MCU fans should watch.
Despite the fact that the Marvel animated universe is not as extensive as the DCAU, fans can still find some great hidden treasures. Marvel has dominated the comic book industry on the big screen since 2008, with films like The Avengers, Guardians Of The Galaxy, and multiple Spider-Man series.
Since the 1990s, DC has dominated the animation industry, whilst Marvel has mostly focused on live-action films and television series. Marvel, on the other hand, has produced some animated films, and while many of them have not been as successful as DC’s, they have produced a handful of surprising animated films that are on par with their live-action equivalents. We still can not get enough of Marvel products, despite the fact that they produce more and more each year. Here are a few animated features to help you feed your appetite.
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
This one is probably the best-known animated movie on the entire list. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a 2018 computer-animated superhero film starring Miles Morales from Marvel Comics, produced by Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animation in collaboration with Marvel. It is the first animated picture in the Spider-Man franchise, and it was distributed by Sony Pictures Releasing.
In the film, teen Miles Morales transforms into his universe’s Spider-Man and must team up with five other spider-powered individuals from other worlds to stop a threat to all realities. Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the creative brains behind The Lego Movie and 21 Jump Street, bring their distinct talents to a new vision of a reimagined Spider-Man Universe, complete with a pioneering visual aesthetic that is unlike anything seen before.
Into the Spider-Verse is a rowdy, intelligent, and self-referential adventure. Even as it respects the many Spider-Man films that have come before it, the comics-inspired visuals are magnificent, and the emotional coming-of-age plot is relevant and uplifting. Despite its bizarre premise, Into the Spider-Verse is very effective in establishing the many characters and the world’s concerns, partly by relying on the audience’s familiarity with comic book films and these characters.
This means lots of inside jokes and laughs that the audience relates to. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, is also unquestionably a visual powerhouse, with a style, unlike any previous comic adaptations. Traditional 3D computer animation and comic book elements are combined in a brilliant, energetic way in the film. So, if you’re a Spidey fan, this should feature on your must-watch.
Hulk Vs. (2009)
This is the movie you’ve been waiting for if you like the Hulk crushing things. The best part is that it’s a two-for-one adventure, with the Hulk facing off against both Wolverine and Thor in two distinct adventures showcasing the Hulk doing, well, Hulk things. Both the animated movies are under 40 minutes long each and thus are perfect for a weekend binge.
While Hulk vs Thor deep dives into the world of Asgard and the rivalry between Thor and Loki, Hulk vs Wolverine features known characters like Omega Red and Deadpool. The Hulk’s battles with these two heroes are well-documented in comic history, and this animated feature gets right to the action: fighting, fighting, and more fighting.
While the plot in these animated short flicks is a little light, the action isn’t lacking. The action sequences might be the highest points of these movies but each of them is animated and scripted cleverly to keep you hooked on to it. Deadpool breaks the fourth wall here as well and Loki tries to capture Asgard and take revenge from Thor during Odinsleep.
If you’re someone that loves the incredible Hulk and watching the big, bad green beast smash things to a pulp is your entertainment of choice, then these two films are an absolute m must-watch. Simply put, things get crushed when the Hulk is angry, and the Hulk is pretty damn angry in these movies.
Doctor Strange (2007)
Two Marvel animated films were released in 2007, The Invincible Iron Man and Doctor Strange: The Sorcerer Supreme. The latter introduces Marvel’s strongest magic user as he learned under the Ancient One. Doctor Strange has gained the mainstream exposure he’s long deserved thanks to a solo feature picture starring Benedict Cumberbatch, but there’s already a terrific origin narrative for the Sorcerer Supreme out there, complete with top-notch animation and superb writing.
In the movie, Doctor Strange is forced to put his powers to the test in a battle with Dormammu’s followers after earning the title of Sorcerer Supreme, while also investigating a bizarre case of children caught in a mystical coma. Fans had hoped for a connected series of films from Invincible Iron Man and Doctor Strange, but Marvel Animation opted for primarily standalone storylines.
Doctor Strange: Sorcerer Supreme will give you a crash course in the titular character if you’re unfamiliar with him, while also hitting all the right notes for fans of the magic-wielding hero. The origin story of Dr. Steven Strange’s powers, his internal problems with vanity, and his path to becoming the actual Sorcerer Supreme are all featured in the film. If you are a die-hard fan of this futuristic sorcerer, this is one that is a must-watch with your friends and family.
Ultimate Avengers: The Movie (2006)
Fans of the Avengers turned to the film Ultimate Avengers six years before the live-action MCU version of the squad hit theatres. The overall story arc is similar to how the band came together in the MCU, with Captain America being revived in the current day to lead a motley collection of heroes against a global threat, although Ultimate Avengers sticks closer to the comics in terms of character development.
Marvel Animation delivered to its viewers a film that, while having a less than two-hour runtime, managed to expose fans to a well-performed and illustrated cast of characters, as well as some excellent action moments before Kevin Feige and Joss Whedon, brought the characters to life in the main team-up feature.
This was a new take on the Avengers that seemed like a show, drawing more inspiration from the Ultimate comics at the time. Every frame of animation is top quality, as is the voice acting. It also includes a darker version of The Incredible Hulk as an anti-hero who battles the Avengers as a whole.
The action sequences rival the live-action versions because there are so many things that can be accomplished with animation. This might not be as good as the multiple Avengers movies that we have been exposed to in the last couple of years and even though the MCU Avengers is currently in full swing, Ultimate Avengers is well worth checking out whenever you need an Avengers fix.
Ultimate Avengers II (2006)
Ultimate Avengers 2 continues from where the first animated film in the Ultimate Avengers franchise left off. It was also released in the same year, making for a delightful movie marathon for die-hard fans of the comics. This one introduces Black Panther in his debut film appearance, with all of the same actors returning from the first.
For the character, that was a huge step forward because this was released long before the live-action version with Chadwick Boseman that we know and love. His story was conveyed in a dignified manner, and the Avengers was once again magnificent. The Avengers travel to Wakanda after T’Challa requests their help in coping with a Chitauri invasion of his realm, and this action introduces Black Panther to the squad.
The film, unfortunately, suffers from trying to do too much in such a short time frame, which makes it feel cluttered and leaves certain characters with little screen time. Regardless, everything that was terrific about the previous film is present in this sequel.
Ultimate Avengers 2 is actually one of Marvel’s most commercially successful animated films, featuring an experienced Avengers team working together to defeat a hazardous villain while providing adequate screen time for each hero’s part in the fight. This is a film that any serious Avengers fan should watch and if possible, own because this was a banger in its time.
Planet Hulk (2010)
This is the second Hulk title on our list and for good reason. Who doesn’t love watching the Hulk smash things? Planet Hulk, an animated picture based on one of the most popular storylines in Hulk’s comic history, was released in 2010 and became one of Marvel’s most popular animated films to date.
The core plot is unchanged from the comics: Hulk is shipped off to live out his days on an abandoned planet after being declared too dangerous to stay on Earth; however, things go wrong, and Hulk winds up on a war-torn planet controlled by a vicious ruler. Hulk is then enslaved and forced to fight in a gladiatorial arena for the ruler’s and people’s entertainment.
There are a lot of action scenes with Hulk smashing aliens and quite frankly, showcases pure carnage. In this film, the Hulk also gets a lot more screen time and a lot more of a character performance, which is refreshing, and all of the characters are well-developed.
The Hulk’s desire for vengeance against the Earth heroes who exiled him to orbit is obviously toned down for the animated film, but the fundamental tale stays intact and is just as gripping as the comics are. Planet Hulk is a must-watch for any true Hulk fan or Marvel aficionado, and it’s a great idea for the next Hulk solo movie whenever that actually occurs. Many fans had also hoped for a sequel in the style of World War Hulk, but it never materialized.
The Invincible Iron Man (2007)
Tony Stark’s origin tale was depicted through an animated animation that featured him facing off against the Mandarin before Robert Downey Jr. donned the red futuristic suit that has captivated audiences ever since. The genesis narrative is well-told here, and, like the live-action version, it takes its character seriously and with respect while also including some of Stark’s brash comedy.
The Invincible Iron Man has everything an Iron Man movie should have: a self-assured tech billionaire who, in an attempt to save his own life, transforms into one of the world’s most powerful superheroes, and his battle with his comic book arch-nemesis the Mandarin. In this fascinating account of Iron Man’s origins, Tony must utilize his Iron Man technology to safeguard the globe from the evil forces of the Mandarin, an ancient evil that Stark himself unleashed upon the planet.
Unless you count Ben Kingsley’s character in Iron Man 3, which you shouldn’t, Iron Man’s arch-foe has yet to appear in the MCU. Though The Invincible Iron Man could serve as a good beginning point for the supervillain if Marvel changes their minds, it appears unlikely that the villain has any future on the big screen. The vocal cast is memorable, the animation is appealing, and there are enough exciting action moments to keep one entertained. It’s bad there was never a sequel with characters like War Machine, Ultimo, or Crimson Dynamo.
Big Hero 6 (2014)
Big Hero 6 is unquestionably Marvel’s most mainstream and commercially successful animated feature to date. Big Hero 6 is a fictional superhero team created by Man of Action and featured in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. Big Hero 6, a computer-animated film based on the characters, was released in 2014 by Walt Disney Animation Studios.
The movie follows Hiro Hamada, 14, an adolescent through the streets of “San Fransokyo,” a beautiful mash-up of America and Japan with future-retro looks that would make a Blade Runner replicant cry.
Hiro finds himself retooling the huggable healthcare droid Baymax to wage battle with a Kabuki-masked demon, aided by a small but tight-knit nerd army, after being encouraged by older brother Tadashi to abandon small-time bot-battling and enlist at a whizz robotics facility. This anime-inflected feast is an origins narrative filled with innocence and grief, harkening back to Disney’s big-hearted past while looking forward to new worlds of the invention.
Big Hero 6 is an amazing film that will tug at your heartstrings one minute and have you laughing out loud the next. This movie obviously doesn’t have any of the regular Marvel heroes and villains that we have come to know and love and offers us completely new characters. However, one can’t help but fall in love with Hiro and Baymax as you sit through this film. This film is highly recommended for people who want to see everything Marvel has to offer and was even considered to be a serious Oscar contender when it came out.
Thor: Tales Of Asgard (2011)
This was the final installment in Marvel’s straight-to-DVD animated film series, and it was a surprisingly good adventure film about a teenage Thor and Loki on a quest to recover a magical sword.
Thor and Loki, two young brothers, travel to Jotunheim in search of the legendary Sword of Surtur. The Warriors Three assist the siblings on their mission, which is filled with both physical and mental trials. Thor: Tales of Asgard stands out from the rest of the list because it tells the narrative of a young future hero who has yet to have become worthy of wielding Mjolnir’s strength. The Lionsgate company proves once again that they can produce high-quality Marvel animation while creating a fascinating coming-of-age story.
The characters are all memorable, Loki shines as always, and the quest itself is a healthy balance of fun, drama, comedy, mystery, and character to keep one entertained; when combined with outstanding animation, it wasn’t a horrible way for Marvel animation to end. Tales of Asgard components were incorporated into the first Thor film. Specifically, the youthful Thor’s brazen inexperience, but it’s still worth a watch for any serious Marvel fan.
Avengers Confidential: Black Widow & Punisher (2014)
Fans of anime will enjoy Avengers Confidential: Black Widow & Punisher, which was released in 2014. The titular heroes Black Widow and Punisher link together to fight a sinister plot by the evil terrorist organization known as Leviathan in this sequel to the Marvel Anime Series. The two uncover Leviathan’s plan to use superhero blood to build an army of indoctrinated super soldiers.
The action in Avengers Confidential is its strongest suit. The first few minutes involve a scene in which Castle kills a couple of dozen criminals by himself, and it’s so excellent that you will be a little disappointed that the rest of the film won’t be able to keep up the ante.
Throughout the tale, there are numerous action moments, all of which look spectacular, though it’s a lot like watching someone play Tekken at times since, while Black Widow will get kicked severely, she’ll recover with no markings, bruises, blood, or damage to her clothes.
Although there is an unusual, albeit momentary, shift in the mood of the film approximately midway through, when viewers are introduced to a current Marvel Comics favorite, Amadeus Cho, the film’s dark, gritty tone provides the right setting for the brutality required to make The Punisher work on screen.
The Avengers team does arrive at some point, but Widow and Punisher are at the center of this thrilling adventure, which includes plenty of violent fight scenes and surprising twists in the story. The movie had a positive reception with reviews praising the action sequences and animation.
Iron Man: Rise Of Technovore (2013)
Marvel released several anime-inspired series based on popular Marvel characters such as Wolverine, Iron Man, and Blade. In 2013, Iron Man: Rise of Technovore was released, which followed up on the anime series and featured other Marvel characters such as Black Widow, The Punisher, Hawkeye, and War Machine.
Iron Man and his fellow superheroes teamed up to take on Advanced Idea Mechanics/A.I.M. and the powerful techno-organic threat known as the Technovore is a film that, despite its low IMDb rating, has a devoted following.
In this movie, S.H.I.E.L.D. believes Iron Man is to blame for War Machine’s death. Tony must flee Nick Fury’s custody in order to clear his reputation, and he teams up with a fellow outlaw, the Punisher.
Hawkeye and Black Widow begin their search as they try to track down and apprehend the fugitive genius, billionaire, playboy, and philanthropist. While on the other hand, Iron Man must fight A.I.M.’s newly developed techno-organic weaponry in order to establish his innocence.
While the Punisher’s screen time is limited, the character excels in this redemption story, and S.H.I.E.L.D.’s search for Iron Man keeps the tension high as Tony works against the clock to show he is the hero he has always been. While it definitely isn’t a Robert Downey Jr live-action, it still stands in good stead as a timeless Marvel animated movie.
Are you somewhat bored and no longer want to watch all the live-action movies in order during your Marvel binge weekend? Binge through this list for a completely new yet amazing Marvel experience. Tell us what your favorite Marvel animated film is!