Marvel Cinematic Universe: A Visual History

Since 2008, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has gone from being viewed as the scraping of the comic book barrel to the forefront of blockbuster cinema. Smart casting, understanding of fan wants and a pervasive sense of fun mean the films have proved as popular with critics as they have mainstream audience. Originally started because the company had sold off the film rights to its more noteworthy heroes (Spider-Man, X-Men, Fantastic Four), producer Kevin Feige has overseen the likes of Iron Man and Guardians Of The Galaxy, turning them into A-list names that trounce the previously more well-known competition. Cumulatively making over $7 billion at the worldwide box office, in 2015 the MCU looks set to leap past current leader Harry Potter to become the highest grossing franchise of all time. Not too shabby for a series that only began seven years ago, especially since back then DC were dominating the superhero genre with The Dark Knight Trilogy. With ten movies down and ten more on the horizon, not to mention an unexpected amount of spin-off material, there's now a lot to take in, so use this handy guide to get the origins and sequels in order, as well as learn which post-credits scene came with which film and where recurring characters made their first appearances.

Marvel had previously stated they have ideas up to 2028, and they've recently revealed their slate up to 2019. WIth three movies a year and a healthy mix of sequels to beloved properties and introductions of new heroes, there's a lot of life in the MCU left.