6 Least Essential MCU Movies You Can Skip (Without Missing the Big Picture)
While the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) thrives on interconnected stories, not every movie is vital to the franchise’s core plot. With 36 films spanning over 17 years, a few entries stand out more for their individual flair than their contribution to the grand narrative. Whether you’re a new viewer or doing a rewatch, here are the six least essential MCU films that can be skipped without missing much:
1. The Incredible Hulk (2008)
Despite being the second MCU film, this Hulk story—starring Edward Norton—is mostly disconnected from the rest of the franchise. Mark Ruffalo eventually took over the role, and only General Ross reappeared in later films. Most plotlines here were dropped, making it more of a standalone than a building block.
2. Iron Man 3 (2013)
This billion-dollar hit explores Tony Stark’s PTSD and features the fake Mandarin twist, but the events remain isolated. Outside of Trevor Slattery’s return in Shang-Chi, the film has little lasting impact on the wider MCU story.
3. Eternals (2021)
With a sprawling cast and a massive cosmic plot, Eternals introduced big ideas—but hasn’t tied into any other MCU films since. None of the characters have returned, and even the dead Celestial remains mostly ignored, making it one of the franchise’s most isolated entries.
4. Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)
This film, though action-packed, focuses mostly on Thor and Jane’s personal arcs. Its villain, Gorr, is never referenced again, and its events have little consequence on the broader MCU. Even Thor’s future in Avengers: Doomsday barely hinges on anything from this film.
5. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
While an emotional farewell to the Guardians crew, this third volume functions independently from the main saga. It barely references other MCU events and wraps up the Guardians’ journey without impacting the ongoing multiverse storyline.
6. Captain America: Brave New World (2025)
Intended as Sam Wilson’s first solo mission as Captain America, this film revisits themes already covered in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Aside from introducing Adamantium and Thunderbolt Ross’s new role, the film doesn’t move the overall MCU plot forward much.
