The Best MCU Movie Endings, Ranked

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has delivered some of the most memorable movie endings in blockbuster history. From emotional farewells to shocking twists, these finales leave audiences talking long after the credits roll. Each ending balances action, character arcs, and setup for future stories, making them stand out in a franchise known for its interconnected narratives.

With 37 films and counting, the MCU has had plenty of chances to nail the perfect ending. This list ranks the best, starting from the least impactful to the absolute greatest, based on emotional weight, storytelling, and their influence on the franchise. Let’s dive into the endings that made us cheer, cry, or sit in stunned silence.

15. ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp’ (2018)

This lighthearted sequel ends with Scott Lang trapped in the Quantum Realm after the Snap wipes out Hank Pym, Janet van Dyne, and Hope van Dyne. The sudden shift from goofy heist vibes to a tragic cliffhanger ties it directly to ‘Avengers: Infinity War’.

The mid-credits scene delivers the gut punch, showing the Pym family turning to dust while Scott is stuck, unaware of the world’s chaos. It’s a bold way to connect a standalone story to the larger MCU, setting up Scott’s key role in ‘Avengers: Endgame’.

14. ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ (2017)

Thor loses Asgard but saves his people, leading them to Earth aboard a ship as the new king. The destruction of his home and Loki’s redemption arc wrap up with a mix of humor and hope.

The final scene, with Thor embracing his role as leader while hinting at Thanos’ looming threat, strikes a balance between closure and anticipation. It’s a satisfying end to a vibrant, game-changing Thor story that revitalized the character.

13. ‘Black Widow’ (2021)

Natasha Romanoff’s solo adventure ends with her walking away from her past, ready to rejoin the Avengers. The bittersweet farewell to her makeshift family sets up her sacrifice in ‘Avengers: Endgame’.

The post-credits scene introduces Yelena Belova’s mission to hunt Clint Barton, adding intrigue for future MCU projects. It’s a fitting close that honors Natasha’s legacy while opening new doors.

12. ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ (2014)

Steve Rogers takes down S.H.I.E.L.D. and faces his old friend Bucky, who saves him from drowning after their brutal fight. The ending leaves Bucky’s redemption up in the air, adding emotional depth.

The final moments show Steve ready to track down Bucky, while the mid-credits scene teases the next big threat with Baron Zemo. It’s a grounded, personal finish that reshapes the MCU’s status quo.

11. ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2’ (2017)

Peter Quill defeats his father, Ego, but loses Yondu, who sacrifices himself to save him. The Ravagers’ funeral for Yondu is a heartfelt tribute, blending grief with celebration.

The ending ties up the Guardians’ found-family arc while setting up their future adventures. It’s a tear-jerker that honors Yondu’s rough but loving role as Peter’s true dad.

10. ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’ (2019)

Peter Parker defeats Mysterio, but his identity as Spider-Man is exposed to the world. J. Jonah Jameson’s return, outing Peter as a supposed villain, flips his life upside down.

The shocking reveal sets up high stakes for ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’. It’s a bold cliffhanger that captures the chaos of Peter’s double life unraveling in a single moment.

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

Steve Rogers crashes Red Skull’s plane to save New York, waking up 70 years later in a new world. His quiet heartbreak over missing his date with Peggy Carter hits hard.

The ending sets up Steve’s fish-out-of-water story for ‘The Avengers’ while showcasing his selflessness. It’s a poignant close that cements why he’s the perfect Captain America.

8. ‘Iron Man 3’ (2013)

Tony Stark destroys his suits to prioritize his life with Pepper, closing his solo trilogy with growth. He reflects on overcoming trauma, proving he’s more than just the armor.

The final scene feels like a full circle for Tony, though he’s still ready for future MCU battles. It’s a grounded, character-driven ending that wraps up his arc beautifully.

7. ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ (2022)

Shuri burns her funeral robes to grieve T’Challa, embracing her role as the new Black Panther. The mid-credits scene reveals T’Challa’s son, offering hope for Wakanda’s future.

This emotional farewell honors Chadwick Boseman while passing the mantle to Shuri. It’s a powerful, respectful close that balances loss with a new beginning.

6. ‘The Avengers’ (2012)

The team defeats Loki and the Chitauri, proving they can unite to save Earth. Each hero goes their separate way, but the bond is set for future battles.

The iconic shawarma post-credits scene and Thanos’ reveal tease bigger threats ahead. It’s a triumphant end that launched the MCU’s team-up era with style.

5. ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014)

The Guardians save Xandar and fly off as a family, with Peter ready to explore his mysterious heritage. The upbeat vibe, paired with a killer soundtrack, feels like a victory lap.

The post-credits scene with Baby Groot dancing seals the deal, cementing the Guardians’ charm. It’s a fun, hopeful ending that made these misfits instant fan favorites.

4. ‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016)

The Avengers split after Tony learns Bucky killed his parents, leading to a brutal fight with Steve. The ending, with Steve rescuing his team and leaving Tony a letter, feels raw and unresolved.

This bittersweet close highlights the fractured team dynamic while setting up the stakes for ‘Avengers: Infinity War’. It’s a messy, emotional gut punch that lingers.

3. ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ (2021)

Peter Parker sacrifices his identity, letting Doctor Strange erase him from everyone’s memory to save the multiverse. He chooses to protect MJ and Ned by staying out of their lives.

The final swing in his new suit marks a fresh start, full of loneliness but also resolve. It’s a heartbreaking yet heroic ending that redefines Spider-Man’s MCU journey.

2. ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018)

Thanos snaps his fingers, wiping out half of all life, including heroes like Peter Parker. The heroes’ failure, especially Peter’s desperate plea to Tony, is a devastating blow.

Thanos watching the sunrise on his farm completes his arc as a twisted protagonist. This shocking, bleak ending left audiences reeling, unmatched in its emotional weight.

1. ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019)

Tony Stark sacrifices himself to defeat Thanos, while Steve Rogers passes the shield to Sam Wilson. The funeral and Steve’s dance with Peggy tie up a decade of storytelling.

This epic finale delivers closure for the MCU’s biggest heroes while opening new paths. It’s a near-perfect blend of loss, triumph, and hope that defines the franchise.

What’s your favorite MCU movie ending—share your thoughts in the comments and let us know which finale hit you the hardest!