Look, we understand thatMarvelhas had an absolute chokehold on the film industry and pop culture in general over the last decade. With shows, spinoffs, and even more films coming out, evaluating the MCU for what it has given us is a fun pass time. Marvel is the kind of brand that prides itself on making entertaining content for a wide variety of demographics. However, as much as superheroes pop on our screens and shape childhoods, some mature themes, violence, and sometimes disturbing visuals may not always be a great watch for kids.
Of course, the MCU has something for just about everyone. Since Marvel kick-startedPhase 1 withIron Man, kids (and adults) have been flocking to theaters to see where the stories of our favorite superheroes are going. Although Marvel is full of light, funny, and inspiring moments, there is stuff you might want a kid to avoid. However, we’ve got you covered! From the cultural significance of films likeBlack PantherandShang-Chi and The Legend of the Ten Ringsto the comic book feel of films likeGuardians of the GalaxyandSpider-Man: Homecoming, here is our list of the best Marvel films for kids to watch.
13Ant-Man and the Wasp
Paul Rudd’s Ant-Man is almost as family-friendly as you can get! InAnt-Man and the Wasp, Ant-Man is once again drawn back into the task of fighting a new enemy, except, this time, he gets to fight alongside the Wasp, played by Evangeline Lilly. Of course, this superhero film still has action components and fighting scenes. However, it is a boatload of fun, the suits are awesome and is visually a great film to bring the whole family to enjoy.
12Spider-Man: Far From Home
In the grand scheme of things, Peter Parker/Spider-Man has always meant to just be a kid, making him the perfect superhero for children. Tom Holland in this role specifically is a parent’s dream casting. In the second film inHolland’sSpider-Mantrilogy,Far From Home, Peter is on a field trip overseas with his class when he encounters the Elementals and Mysterio. He is forced to navigate the complications of his personal life and his superhero alter-ego. This is one of the best coming-of-age films to come from Marvel and since it is aSpider-Manmovie, it is bright, funny, and full of adventure that any kid could only dream of.
11Doctor Strange
What is better for kids than a little magic?Doctor Strangeis not known to be the most welcoming or charismatic Marvel character. In fact, he is pretty cynical and stiff in his debut film up until he harnesses his powers. The introduction of a new superhero is always going to have its appeal to children. The firstDoctor Strangefilm gives us the mirror dimension and Strange’s new affinity for the mystic arts, a great pairing for audiences of all ages.
10Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings
Marvel sometimes leans into heavier themes and recently tapped into horror elements in projects like Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. However,Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Ringsdoes the opposite, perfect for the entire family. There is some family drama and trauma because this movie does need to have its layers. However, this film just feels lighter and a pretty easy watch for kids. We follow Shang-Chi and how he is forced to face some demons from his past and discover the true power that lies within him. Also, let’s give it up for some Asian superhero representation!
In 2011, Marvel gave birth to the hammer-wielding God of Thunder we know now as Thor, played by Chris Hemsworth. TheThorfilm franchise has its ups and downs. However, there is a reason why audiences, especially younger children, have grown to love this iconic MCU hero. This debut film has Thor and Loki in all sorts of shenanigans as Thor will inherit the throne. However, his banishment to Earth makes things a little more complicated than he would like.
So many kids dream of becoming Iron Man one day. The creation of a superhero takes a lot of effort to execute properly. The MCU as a franchise could not be what it is today withoutIron Man. We get to see Tony Stark go from a cocky, rich, trigger-happy genius to a cocky, rich, trigger-happy geniussuperhero, and we are here for it. Robert Downey Jr. made this character his own. His charisma as Tony Stark won over the hearts of every fan of Marvel. Introducing the MCU to any kid would not be right if it didn’t start with the man who started it all.
7Thor: Ragnarok
The atmosphere a Marvel movie creates is something special. Every film feels unique in some way. When it comes to the films that appeal the most to kids, the bright visuals, charismatic characters, and thrilling plot,Thor: Ragnarokis the way to go. We have Thor and Loki getting stranded on the planet of Sakaar. Thor desperately needs to take back Asgard from his murderous sister. Also, Bruce Banner/Hulk is in it. This masterpiece of a film isdirected by Taika Waititi, and it is laugh-out-loud hilarious and full of life.
Related:Every Major Marvel Character Who Has Died in the MCU
6Black Panther
Black Pantheris one of the most groundbreaking films the MCU has ever put out. Culturally,Black Pantherbecame a superhero that represented every young Black child that looked for a superhero that looked like them. Played bythe late Chadwick Boseman, T’Challa fights to rightfully take his place as King of Wakanda. This triumphant film explores themes of resilience, family, and inner strength that is the perfect inspiration for kids.
5Spider-Man: Homecoming
What kid doesn’t want to be the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man? Tom Holland brought Spider-Man to a new audience of kids.Spider-Man: Homecomingis a fun ride that is simple, easy to follow, and has Peter learning how to dial down his actions as a hero post-Civil War. He is back to living with his Aunt May after going head-to head with some of the most formidable superheroes on the planet, definitely not something that will excite a young man like Peter. Peter Parker is the superhero representation that young kids can relate to as well as aspire to be.
4Guardians of the Galaxy
In one of the most unique film franchises in the MCU, we have theGuardians of the Galaxy. When we bring up the conversation for family-friendly films, the Guardians are a safe bet through and through. The odd team of Star-Lord, Gamora, Rocket, Drax, Groot (and eventually Mantis) brings science fiction to a whole new level for Marvel. The firstGuardiansfilm in particular is as adventurous as you could get as this patchwork team of undesirables plots to save the universe.
