Ranking Every Aspect Of The MCU From Worst To Best
11. Luke Cage
Much like Harlem itself, Luke Cage's television debut brought a melting pot of different ideas and inspirations to Netflix's corner of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Again, it suffers from the same pacing and narrative problems that have become an unwelcome trademark of the Defenders' solo efforts, but overcomes these minor problems through confident performances and socially-relevant themes.
Juggling elements of the superhero origin story, blaxploitation, soap opera and even hints of the Western genre, Luke Cage plays a delicate balancing act and largely succeeds. Despite missing the crackling chemistry he shared with Krysten Ritter's Jessica Jones, Mike Colter does great work as the title character, leading the show with a great blend of understated natural charisma, confidence, heart and of course, the perks that come with being an a**-kicking bulletproof vigilante.
Luke Cage also features the best use of music across any of the MCU's many platforms, the series backed by a thumping soundtrack that enhances both the locations and the characters. Even though the early departure of Mahershala Ali's Cottonmouth greatly reduces the stakes for our hero as a much lesser villain is drafted in, expectations are high for the upcoming second season after such a dynamic and eminently watchable introduction to the man born Carl Lucas.