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Marvel Cinematic Universe

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is a shared media franchise and fictional universe centered on superhero films and related television productions based on Marvel Comics characters.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is a shared media franchise and fictional universe centered on superhero films and related television productions based on Marvel Comics characters. It began with Iron Man in 2008 and has been organized by Marvel Studios into numbered “Phases,” with later phases also including Disney+ series and specials.

Overview

The MCU is a shared continuity built around films and later streaming series featuring characters from Marvel Comics. It is one of the highest-profile modern film franchises and is structured to connect individual stories into larger crossover events.

Phases and saga structure

Marvel Studios organizes its releases into Phases. The first three phases are known as The Infinity Saga, while Phases Four through Six are part of The Multiverse Saga and include films, television series, and some specials.

Film chronology and releases

The franchise began with Iron Man in 2008 and expanded through ensemble films such as The Avengers, Avengers: Infinity War, and Avengers: Endgame. Later entries include Black Widow, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Deadpool & Wolverine, and The Fantastic Four: First Steps.

From Phase Four onward, the MCU also includes Disney+ television series and television specials that are intended to connect with the wider franchise continuity.

Key facts

  • The MCU is a connected franchise of superhero films and related Disney+ productions.
  • Marvel Studios releases its films in numbered Phases.
  • The first three phases are collectively known as The Infinity Saga.
  • The fourth through sixth phases are collectively known as The Multiverse Saga.
  • The first MCU film was Iron Man (2008).
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Canadian context

The MCU is widely distributed and viewed in Canada, and Canadian audiences have played a major role in its box-office success and fan culture.

Frequently asked questions

What does MCU stand for?
MCU stands for Marvel Cinematic Universe.
What was the first MCU film?
The first MCU film was Iron Man, released in 2008.
How many MCU phases are there?
The MCU is currently organized into six film phases, with additional Disney+ series and specials tied to the later phases.
What is The Infinity Saga?
The Infinity Saga is the collective name for the MCU’s first three phases.
What is The Multiverse Saga?
The Multiverse Saga is the collective name for Phases Four through Six, including films and several Disney+ projects.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marvel_Cinematic_Universe
    Supports: MCU overview, phase structure, first film, and saga naming
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Marvel_Cinematic_Universe_films
    Supports: Film lists by phase and release sequence
  3. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/list-of-films-in-the-Marvel-Cinematic-Universe
    Supports: Release list of MCU films