MCU Phase 1: Iron Man to The Avengers
Phase 1 is six films, from Iron Man (2008) to The Avengers (2012). It introduces Iron Man, Hulk, Thor and Captain America, then puts them in one room.
Updated October 2026
This is where the shared universe is built. The films are fairly self-contained, so it is the gentlest place to start. If you only want the essentials, Iron Man, Thor, Captain America: The First Avenger and The Avengers carry the story forward; The Incredible Hulk is the lightest link.
Phase 1 titles
- Iron Man (2008)Where it starts. Tony Stark builds a suit to escape captivity, then has to decide what to do with it.
- The Incredible Hulk (2008)Bruce Banner on the run from the military. Light on ties to the rest of the saga, so it is the easiest early film to rush.
- Iron Man 2 (2010)Tony deals with fame, a failing power source and a new rival. Brings in Black Widow and a wider look at S.H.I.E.L.D.
- Thor (2011)A cocky prince is stripped of his power and sent to Earth. Introduces Asgard, Loki and the cosmic side of the universe.
- Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)Steve Rogers goes from small-framed volunteer to wartime hero. Gives the Tesseract its backstory.
- The Avengers (2012)The first team-up. Loki invades, and the heroes have to stop arguing long enough to stop him.