Here’s the Current List of the Top 10 Lowest-Grossing MCU Movies (Including ‘Thunderbolts*’)

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has churned out blockbuster after blockbuster, building a legacy of larger-than-life heroes and jaw-dropping spectacles. But not every film in this sprawling franchise has soared to the same financial heights, with some struggling to draw crowds despite big budgets and bold ambitions.

I’m diving into the MCU’s lowest-grossing films, exploring what made these movies fall short at the box office. From early entries that laid the groundwork to recent releases that missed the mark, here’s a look at the numbers and stories behind these cinematic underperformers, ranked by their worldwide earnings.

10. ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’ (2023)

‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’ kicked off Phase Five with high hopes but landed with a thud. Despite a hefty $200 million budget, it pulled in $214.5 million domestically and $476.1 million worldwide, making it a modest earner by MCU standards.

The film introduced Kang the Conqueror, played by Jonathan Majors, but mixed reviews criticized its cluttered plot and overreliance on CGI. I found the quantum realm visuals dazzling, yet the story felt like it stretched the Ant-Man charm too thin. Its box office reflects a fanbase hesitant about the MCU’s new direction.

9. ‘Thor’ (2011)

‘Thor’ brought the God of Thunder to the big screen, earning $181 million in the U.S. and $449.3 million globally against a $150 million budget. As an early MCU entry, it had to sell audiences on a cosmic hero less familiar than Iron Man.

Chris Hemsworth’s charismatic performance and Kenneth Branagh’s Shakespearean flair gave it heart, but some found the Earth-bound romance clunky. I enjoyed its bold swing at blending myth with superhero grit. The numbers show it succeeded enough to launch a franchise, though it didn’t break the bank.

8. ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ (2021)

‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ introduced Simu Liu as the MCU’s newest hero, grossing $224.5 million domestically and $432.2 million worldwide on a $150 million budget. Released during the pandemic, it faced tough theater restrictions.

The film’s vibrant martial arts sequences and cultural depth won praise, but its lesser-known hero kept it from topping charts. I loved its fresh energy and family-driven story. Its solid performance under tough conditions proves it connected with audiences hungry for new faces.

7. ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ (2025)

‘Captain America: Brave New World’ saw Anthony Mackie step up as Sam Wilson’s Cap, earning $200.5 million in the U.S. and $415.1 million globally with a $180 million budget. As a recent release, it aimed to carry the shield’s legacy forward.

Critics noted its grounded political thriller vibe, but some felt it lacked the emotional punch of past Cap films. I admired Mackie’s earnest performance, though the villain’s arc felt rushed. Its box office suggests fans are still adjusting to a new Captain America.

6. ‘Eternals’ (2021)

‘Eternals’ aimed for epic storytelling with a $200 million budget, yet it earned $164.9 million domestically and $402.1 million worldwide. Directed by Chloé Zhao, it introduced a sprawling cast of immortal heroes.

Its ambitious scope and slower pace split fans, with some loving its visuals and others finding it bloated. I appreciated its mythic tone but felt the ensemble overwhelmed the plot. The numbers reflect a bold experiment that didn’t fully click with the MCU’s core audience.

5. ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025)

‘Thunderbolts*’ brought together a team of antiheroes, grossing $189.2 million in the U.S. and $380.7 million worldwide against a $180 million budget; since the movie is still in cinemas, these numbers are still subject to change. As a fresh addition, it leaned on familiar faces like Yelena Belova and Bucky Barnes.

The film’s dark humor and team dynamic sparked buzz, but uneven pacing drew criticism. I enjoyed its rogue vibe, though it didn’t reinvent the team-up formula. Its earnings show moderate interest in this villain-centric spin, hinting at cautious fan investment.

4. ‘Black Widow’ (2021)

‘Black Widow’ gave Scarlett Johansson’s Natasha Romanoff a solo outing, earning $163.7 million domestically and $379.8 million globally with a $200 million budget. Its release during the pandemic and simultaneous Disney+ premiere hurt theater sales.

The spy-thriller style and Florence Pugh’s breakout role as Yelena were highlights, but delays and a late timeline dulled its impact. I found it a solid tribute to Nat, yet it felt overdue. The box office reflects a challenging release more than a lack of love.

3. ‘Captain America: The First Avenger’ (2011)

‘Captain America: The First Avenger’ introduced Steve Rogers, pulling in $176.7 million in the U.S. and $370.6 million worldwide on a $140 million budget. As an early MCU film, it had to prove Cap’s appeal.

Its retro charm and Chris Evans’ heartfelt performance won fans, though some felt it played too safe. I loved its earnest heroism and period setting. The modest earnings paved the way for Cap’s bigger hits, showing a slow but steady build.

2. ‘The Incredible Hulk’ (2008)

‘The Incredible Hulk’ was the MCU’s second film, grossing $134.8 million domestically and $264.8 million worldwide with a $137.5 million budget. Starring Edward Norton as Bruce Banner, it aimed to reboot the green giant.

The action-packed story had grit, but Norton’s casting shift and a darker tone kept it from soaring. I found its raw energy compelling, though it lacks the polish of later MCU hits. Its low earnings mark it as a stepping stone for the franchise.

1. ‘The Marvels’ (2023)

‘The Marvels’ tops this list as the MCU’s lowest earner, with $84.5 million in the U.S. and $206.1 million worldwide against a staggering $270 million budget. Pairing Carol Danvers, Monica Rambeau, and Kamala Khan, it aimed for cosmic fun.

Critics praised its heart but slammed its rushed plot, and audience fatigue hit hard. I enjoyed the trio’s chemistry, but the story felt disjointed. Its dismal box office signals a rare misfire, raising questions about the MCU’s future path.

Which MCU underdog do you think deserves more love, or did I miss a hidden gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!