Marvel Movies 2022: Ranking The Best Superhero Films

Hey guys! Let's dive into the epic world of Marvel movies from 2022. It was a fantastic year for superhero fans, filled with action, emotion, and groundbreaking stories. Let's break down each movie, highlight what made them special, and rank them based on their overall impact. Get ready for a super fun ride!

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness was one of the most anticipated marvel movies 2022, and it certainly delivered a mind-bending experience. Directed by Sam Raimi, this film took us on a wild ride through alternate realities, introducing us to new versions of Doctor Strange and facing unimaginable threats. The plot revolves around Doctor Strange protecting America Chavez, a young girl with the power to travel between universes, from the clutches of the Scarlet Witch, who is corrupted by the Darkhold. The visuals were stunning, with each universe offering a unique and sometimes terrifying landscape. Raimi's signature horror elements were evident, making it a darker and more intense Marvel film than we're used to, which definitely set it apart.

One of the standout aspects of this movie was undoubtedly the performances. Benedict Cumberbatch once again nailed his role as Doctor Strange, portraying both his arrogance and vulnerability with finesse. Elizabeth Olsen as the Scarlet Witch delivered a powerful and emotionally charged performance, showcasing the depths of her grief and the extent of her powers. The introduction of America Chavez, played by Xochitl Gomez, added a fresh dynamic to the story, and her journey of self-discovery resonated with audiences. The cameos were also a major highlight, with some surprising appearances that had fans cheering in theaters.

However, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness wasn't without its criticisms. Some viewers found the plot to be convoluted and the pacing uneven. The horror elements, while appreciated by some, felt jarring to others, who felt it didn't quite fit the Marvel Cinematic Universe's (MCU) established tone. Additionally, the film's treatment of certain characters and their motivations was a point of contention among fans. Despite these issues, the movie's ambition and visual spectacle made it a memorable entry in the MCU. Its exploration of the multiverse opened up exciting possibilities for future films and TV shows. It expanded the scope of the MCU in ways that Endgame only hinted at, making every possibility a reality and every reality a possibility. The film's impact on the overall narrative of the MCU is undeniable, setting the stage for future conflicts and alliances. The introduction of incursions, where two universes collide and threaten to destroy each other, added a new layer of complexity and danger to the MCU. This movie was a roller coaster, and although it had some bumps, it was a thrilling journey overall.

Thor: Love and Thunder

Next up, we have Thor: Love and Thunder. This marvel movies 2022 installment brought back Taika Waititi as director, promising the same blend of humor, heart, and epic battles that made Thor: Ragnarok such a hit. The story follows Thor as he grapples with his place in the universe, searching for inner peace while facing a new threat: Gorr the God Butcher, played by Christian Bale. Gorr's mission is to eliminate all gods, and he proves to be a formidable and terrifying foe. To combat this threat, Thor teams up with Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson) and his ex-girlfriend Jane Foster (Natalie Portman), who has mysteriously gained the powers of Thor, becoming the Mighty Thor. Together, they embark on a cosmic adventure to stop Gorr and save the gods.

One of the most talked-about aspects of Love and Thunder was the return of Natalie Portman as Jane Foster. Her transformation into the Mighty Thor was a welcome surprise, and Portman embraced the role with enthusiasm. The film explores Jane's personal struggles with cancer, adding a layer of emotional depth to her superhero journey. Christian Bale's portrayal of Gorr was also a standout, delivering a chilling and sympathetic villain. Bale brought a level of gravitas to the role, making Gorr's motivations understandable, even if his methods were extreme. The chemistry between Thor, Valkyrie, and Jane was another highlight, with plenty of comedic banter and heartfelt moments.

However, Thor: Love and Thunder received mixed reviews from critics and fans. Some felt that the film's humor was overdone, undermining the seriousness of the plot. The tonal shifts between comedy and drama were sometimes jarring, and the film's pacing felt rushed in certain parts. Additionally, some viewers felt that Gorr's character was underutilized, and his motivations weren't fully explored. Despite these criticisms, Love and Thunder was a box office success, and many viewers enjoyed its lighthearted tone and action-packed sequences. The film's exploration of love, loss, and redemption resonated with audiences, and its vibrant visuals and soundtrack added to the overall entertainment value. It also expanded on the cosmic side of the MCU, introducing new gods and exploring different realms. While it may not have reached the heights of Ragnarok, Love and Thunder was still a fun and enjoyable ride, adding another chapter to Thor's epic story. It also set the stage for future cosmic adventures in the MCU, leaving fans wondering what's next for the God of Thunder.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Finally, we have Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. This marvel movies 2022 film was particularly significant, as it had the difficult task of continuing the Black Panther story after the tragic passing of Chadwick Boseman. The film serves as a tribute to Boseman and his portrayal of T'Challa, while also exploring the themes of grief, resilience, and the importance of family. The plot revolves around Wakanda facing threats from both internal and external forces, as other nations seek to exploit Wakanda's vibranium resources. A new threat emerges from the underwater kingdom of Talokan, led by Namor, played by Tenoch Huerta. Wakanda must find a way to protect its people and its resources while honoring the legacy of their fallen king.

Wakanda Forever is a powerful and emotional film that showcases the strength and resilience of the Wakandan people. The performances were outstanding, with Letitia Wright stepping into a more prominent role as Shuri, T'Challa's sister. Wright delivered a moving portrayal of grief and determination, as Shuri struggles to find her place in a world without her brother. Angela Bassett as Queen Ramonda also gave a tour-de-force performance, embodying the strength and wisdom of a grieving mother and queen. Tenoch Huerta as Namor was a revelation, bringing depth and complexity to the character. Namor is portrayed as a sympathetic antagonist, driven by a desire to protect his people from the surface world. The film explores the parallels between Wakanda and Talokan, highlighting the shared history of colonialism and oppression.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever was widely praised for its emotional depth, stunning visuals, and powerful performances. The film's themes of grief, resilience, and cultural identity resonated with audiences, and its tribute to Chadwick Boseman was both heartfelt and respectful. The introduction of Namor and the kingdom of Talokan expanded the MCU in exciting new ways, adding another layer of complexity to the world. The film also addressed important social and political issues, such as colonialism, racism, and the importance of representation. Some critics felt that the film was overlong and that the plot was convoluted in certain parts. However, the film's overall impact was undeniable, and it is considered a fitting tribute to Chadwick Boseman and a powerful addition to the MCU. Wakanda Forever not only honored the legacy of T'Challa but also set the stage for a new generation of heroes to emerge. The film's ending left fans hopeful for the future of Wakanda and its continued role in the MCU. It served as a reminder of the importance of representation and the power of storytelling to inspire and unite people. It's a movie that stays with you long after the credits roll.

Ranking the Marvel Movies of 2022

Alright, guys, here's my personal ranking of the marvel movies 2022, keeping in mind that everyone's taste is different:

1. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever: For its emotional depth, powerful performances, and cultural significance. It really hit all the right notes and honored Chadwick Boseman beautifully.
2. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness: For its mind-bending visuals, horror elements, and exploration of the multiverse. It took some bold risks, and I appreciated that.
3. Thor: Love and Thunder: For its humor, heart, and action-packed sequences. It was a fun and entertaining ride, even if it wasn't perfect.

So, what do you think of my ranking? Do you agree, or would you shuffle things around? Let me know in the comments below! It's been a fantastic year for Marvel, and I can't wait to see what they have in store for us next.