Every MCU Movie Ranked From Worst to Best (According to CinemaScore)
The Marvel Cinematic Universe has shaped superhero cinema with its sprawling saga of heroes, villains, and epic battles, earning a range of reactions from fans. CinemaScore, capturing audience vibes right after screenings, gives us a clear look at how these films hit or missed with theatergoers.
I’m breaking down every MCU movie, ranked from the lowest CinemaScore of B- to the top-tier A+, using Popcornmeter scores to sort ties. Each film gets its moment, highlighting what worked, what didn’t, and why it landed where it did.
Captain America: Brave New World (2025)
CinemaScore: B-
Popcornmeter: 80%
Anthony Mackie steps up as the new Captain America, tackling a global threat alongside Harrison Ford’s Thunderbolt Ross. The B- CinemaScore and 80% Popcornmeter show fans liked the action but found the plot shaky, likely due to its heavy political undertones.
The espionage focus felt new, but some longed for the heart of past Captain America stories. Strong acting couldn’t fully lift a narrative that left audiences wanting more, placing it at the bottom.
Eternals (2021)
CinemaScore: B
Popcornmeter: 77%
A bold tale of immortal protectors led by Gemma Chan and Richard Madden, this film spans centuries with jaw-dropping visuals. Its B CinemaScore and 77% Popcornmeter hint at a split response, with the grand scope thrilling some but overwhelming others.
Chloé Zhao’s artistic touch added depth, but the large cast and slow pace didn’t click for everyone. It’s a unique MCU entry that aimed high but didn’t fully connect.
The Marvels (2023)
CinemaScore: B
Popcornmeter: 80%
Brie Larson, Teyonah Parris, and Iman Vellani team up for a cosmic romp, earning a B CinemaScore and 80% Popcornmeter. The trio’s chemistry sparked joy, though the story felt rushed to some viewers.
The playful tone and vibrant action were highlights, but a thin plot held it back. Kamala Khan’s charm carried much of the fan love for this one.
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)
CinemaScore: B
Popcornmeter: 81%
Paul Rudd’s Scott Lang explores the Quantum Realm, facing Jonathan Majors’ menacing Kang. With a B CinemaScore and 81% Popcornmeter, the humor landed well, but the stakes felt messy for some.
Majors’ powerful performance and wild visuals stood out, yet a cluttered script tripped up the pacing. It’s a fun dive that didn’t quite nail the landing.
Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)
CinemaScore: B+
Popcornmeter: 76%
Chris Hemsworth’s Thor joins Natalie Portman’s Mighty Thor to battle Christian Bale’s eerie Gorr. The B+ CinemaScore and 76% Popcornmeter reflect a lively but divisive film, with Taika Waititi’s humor shining.
Bale’s chilling villain stole the show, but tonal swings and a rushed romance left some fans cold. It’s a colorful ride that didn’t fully gel for all.
Thor (2011)
CinemaScore: B+
Popcornmeter: 76%
Chris Hemsworth debuts as Thor, with Tom Hiddleston’s Loki stealing scenes in this Asgardian tale. Its B+ CinemaScore and 76% Popcornmeter show a solid start, though the Earth plot felt flat to some.
Kenneth Branagh’s mythic flair gave it weight, but the romance with Jane Foster didn’t spark for everyone. It laid key groundwork for Thor’s arc.
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
CinemaScore: B+
Popcornmeter: 85%
Benedict Cumberbatch’s Strange navigates a wild multiverse with Elizabeth Olsen’s Scarlet Witch. Earning a B+ CinemaScore and 85% Popcornmeter, its bold visuals thrilled, but the story divided fans.
Sam Raimi’s horror-tinged style and Olsen’s intense performance were highlights, though the complex plot lost some viewers. It’s a daring, chaotic entry.
The Incredible Hulk (2008)
CinemaScore: A-
Popcornmeter: 69%
Edward Norton’s Bruce Banner faces off against Tim Roth’s Abomination in this gritty tale. Its A- CinemaScore and 69% Popcornmeter show strong action but a muted fan response.
The raw focus on Banner’s struggle resonated, though some craved more Hulk chaos. It’s an early MCU chapter that feels standalone but lacks later polish.
Thor: The Dark World (2013)
CinemaScore: A-
Popcornmeter: 74%
Thor and Loki take on dark elves, with an A- CinemaScore and 74% Popcornmeter. The brotherly dynamic popped, but the villain and plot didn’t stick with everyone.
Hiddleston’s Loki carried scenes, yet the story’s stakes felt weak. It’s a decent sequel with moments of brilliance but little lasting impact.
Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
CinemaScore: A-
Popcornmeter: 75%
Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers becomes a WWII hero, earning an A- CinemaScore and 75% Popcornmeter. The retro vibe charmed, though the pacing dragged for some.
Evans’ sincerity and the period setting won fans, but the action didn’t always pop. It’s a heartfelt origin that built Steve’s legacy.
Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
CinemaScore: A-
Popcornmeter: 79%
Paul Rudd and Evangeline Lilly team up for a heist, scoring an A- CinemaScore and 79% Popcornmeter. The light humor worked, though the stakes felt small.
The family focus and quirky charm hit, but some wanted a bigger threat. The cast’s energy made this a fun, low-key win.
Thunderbolts* (2025)
CinemaScore: A-
Popcornmeter: 93%
This antihero team-up, led by Florence Pugh’s Yelena and Sebastian Stan’s Bucky, earned an A- CinemaScore and 93% Popcornmeter. The gritty chaos excited, though the focus wavered at times.
The ensemble’s spark and intense action thrilled fans, but the crowded cast muddled things. It’s a bold, messy hit that delivers.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025)
CinemaScore: A-
Popcornmeter: 93%
Marvel’s first family, with Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby, debuted with an A- CinemaScore and 93% Popcornmeter. The retro sci-fi vibe and heart clicked, though some wanted deeper stakes.
The cast’s charm carried it, but the origin-heavy plot felt familiar. It’s a promising start for the Fantastic Four.
Black Widow (2021)
CinemaScore: A-
Popcornmeter: 91%
Scarlett Johansson’s Natasha Romanoff digs into her past, earning an A- CinemaScore and 91% Popcornmeter. The spy-thriller tone and Florence Pugh’s Yelena shone, though its timing felt late.
The action and family focus hit hard, but some felt it arrived too late in Natasha’s story. It’s an emotional, gripping farewell.
Captain Marvel (2019)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 45%
Brie Larson’s Carol Danvers blasts off in this 90s-set origin, with an A CinemaScore but a 45% Popcornmeter due to online divides. The action and Samuel L. Jackson’s Fury were hits, though some found it formulaic.
Larson’s charisma carried the film, making it a strong debut despite mixed online buzz.
Iron Man 2 (2010)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 71%
Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark faces Mickey Rourke’s Whiplash, earning an A CinemaScore and 71% Popcornmeter. The humor and SHIELD setup excited, but the plot felt busy.
Black Widow’s debut and Downey Jr.’s charm shone, though the villain didn’t fully land. It’s a fun but flawed sequel.
Iron Man 3 (2013)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 78%
Tony Stark grapples with PTSD and a cunning foe, scoring an A CinemaScore and 78% Popcornmeter. The twisty story surprised, though the villain reveal split fans.
Downey Jr.’s emotional depth stood out, making it a bold, character-driven hit despite some controversy.
Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 82%
The Avengers battle James Spader’s Ultron, earning an A CinemaScore and 82% Popcornmeter. The action and team banter dazzled, though the packed plot felt rushed.
Joss Whedon’s wit and epic set-pieces thrilled, but the scope overwhelmed some. It’s a thrilling, crowded sequel.
Ant-Man (2015)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 85%
Paul Rudd’s Scott Lang shrinks into action, with an A CinemaScore and 85% Popcornmeter. The heist vibe and humor popped, though the stakes stayed small.
Michael Douglas’ Hank Pym and Rudd’s charm made it a fresh, fan-loved hit with a grounded feel.
Doctor Strange (2016)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 86%
Benedict Cumberbatch’s mystic journey earned an A CinemaScore and 86% Popcornmeter. The trippy visuals wowed, though the origin story felt standard.
Cumberbatch’s wit and wild effects made it a standout, delivering a magical MCU entry.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 87%
The Guardians explore Peter Quill’s roots, scoring an A CinemaScore and 87% Popcornmeter. The emotional core hit, though the busy plot lost some fans.
James Gunn’s heart and Baby Groot won crowds, making it a vibrant, touching sequel.
Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 87%
Thor, Loki, and Hulk face Cate Blanchett’s Hela, earning an A CinemaScore and 87% Popcornmeter. Taika Waititi’s humor and action popped, though some wanted more depth.
Hemsworth’s charm and the bold style made it a game-changer for Thor’s saga.
Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 87%
Tom Holland’s Peter Parker swings in with an A CinemaScore and 87% Popcornmeter. The high-school vibe and Tony Stark’s mentorship thrilled, though the villain felt light.
Holland’s youthful energy made it a fresh, widely loved Spider-Man tale.
Captain America: Civil War (2016)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 89%
The Avengers split in this epic clash, earning an A CinemaScore and 89% Popcornmeter. The airport battle and emotional stakes soared, though the plot felt dense.
Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr.’s conflict, plus Spider-Man’s debut, made it a standout hit.
Iron Man (2008)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 91%
Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark launches the MCU, with an A CinemaScore and 91% Popcornmeter. The witty origin hooked fans, though the climax felt standard.
Downey Jr.’s iconic role and Jon Favreau’s direction set the MCU’s tone, making it a timeless gem.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 92%
Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers uncovers a conspiracy with Black Widow, earning an A CinemaScore and 92% Popcornmeter. The spy-thriller vibe and Bucky’s return gripped fans.
The tight action and emotional depth made it a top-tier MCU hit with lasting impact.
Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 92%
Chris Pratt’s Star-Lord leads a ragtag crew, scoring an A CinemaScore and 92% Popcornmeter. The humor and heart won fans, with the soundtrack sealing the deal.
James Gunn’s fresh take and lovable misfits made it an instant classic.
Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 92%
The Avengers face Thanos’ cosmic threat, earning an A CinemaScore and 92% Popcornmeter. The bold stakes and shocking ending floored audiences.
Josh Brolin’s Thanos and the epic scope made it a gripping, unforgettable chapter.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 94%
Wakanda mourns and rises against Namor, with an A CinemaScore and 94% Popcornmeter. The emotional tribute to Chadwick Boseman resonated deeply.
Letitia Wright and the cast’s heart, plus stunning visuals, made it a powerful sequel.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 94%
The Guardians’ final ride dives into Rocket’s past, earning an A CinemaScore and 94% Popcornmeter. The emotional depth and action hit hard for fans.
James Gunn’s heartfelt closer and the team’s bond made it a fan-favorite triumph.
Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 94%
Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman team up for a multiversal romp, scoring an A CinemaScore and 94% Popcornmeter. The humor and heart landed perfectly.
The duo’s chemistry and wild cameos made it a hilarious, crowd-pleasing hit.
Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 95%
Tom Holland’s Peter Parker faces Mysterio post-Endgame, with an A CinemaScore and 95% Popcornmeter. The global adventure and teen vibe thrilled fans.
Holland’s charm and Jake Gyllenhaal’s villainy made it a standout Spider-Man tale.
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
CinemaScore: A
Popcornmeter: 98%
Simu Liu’s Shang-Chi battles for his legacy, earning an A CinemaScore and 98% Popcornmeter. The martial arts and family drama wowed audiences.
The fresh hero and stunning action made it a near-perfect MCU gem.
Black Panther (2018)
CinemaScore: A+
Popcornmeter: 79%
Chadwick Boseman’s T’Challa rules Wakanda, with an A+ CinemaScore and 79% Popcornmeter. The cultural impact and vibrant world captivated fans.
Ryan Coogler’s vision and Boseman’s regal performance made it a groundbreaking hit.
The Avengers (2012)
CinemaScore: A+
Popcornmeter: 91%
Earth’s mightiest heroes unite against Loki, earning an A+ CinemaScore and 91% Popcornmeter. The team-up thrill and Joss Whedon’s wit hooked fans.
The epic action and iconic moments made it a defining MCU milestone.
Avengers: Endgame (2019)
CinemaScore: A+
Popcornmeter: 90%
The Avengers face Thanos in their final stand, with an A+ CinemaScore and 90% Popcornmeter. The emotional payoff and epic scale left audiences in awe.
The Russo brothers’ saga closer delivered a heart-wrenching, monumental finale.
Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
CinemaScore: A+
Popcornmeter: 97%
Tom Holland’s Peter Parker navigates a multiversal crisis, earning an A+ CinemaScore and 97% Popcornmeter. The nostalgic cameos and emotional stakes soared.
The fan-service and heartfelt story made it the MCU’s top crowd-pleaser.
Which MCU film is your top pick, or did I miss a key moment that won you over? Drop your thoughts in the comments!