2. Finality
Phase One of the Marvel Cinematic Universe was all about expansion. Each film was charged with introducing a new character or some other part of the universe to give the audience a sense of what was to come. This even happened in The Avengers with the reveal of Thanos. Iron Man 3 sets a new pace for Phase Two by offering something not yet seen in the MCU, closure. Iron Man 3 clearly references the events of The Avengers, for how could it not, but it avoids hinting at what is to come in any of the Marvel films that will follow. This is a true strength of the film that allows it to focus on resolving the issues plaguing its main characters. There is no crossover subplot derailing the film like in Iron Man 2. There is instead a much deeper exploration of its own themes and narrative. Iron Man 3 feels more complete than either of its predecessors because it was free from even having to setup a fourth film in its own franchise. It tells its own story from start to finish without having to worry about saving anything for the future. If the franchise ended today, we would have a good idea of how Tonys life turned out. Closing the film with the finality of Tony having the shrapnel removed from his chest and looking toward possible retirement actually opens up the franchise and the MCU to fascinating possibilities. As the book closes on Iron Man 3, the next book for the title characters cinematic adventures opens on a blank page which Shane Black or someone else can fill with a brand new take.