3 best (and 2 worst) fakeout deaths in the MCU

Loki (Tom Hiddleston) in Marvel Studios' LOKI, exclusively on Disney+. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. ©Marvel Studios 2021. All Rights Reserved.
Loki (Tom Hiddleston) in Marvel Studios' LOKI, exclusively on Disney+. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. ©Marvel Studios 2021. All Rights Reserved.
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Marvel Studios’ THOR: RAGNAROK..Loki (Tom Hiddleston)..Ph: Teaser Film Frame..©Marvel Studios 2017

In the ever-evolving Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), unexpected twists and shocking turns have become a hallmark of its storytelling. Among the most heart-wrenching moments are character deaths, or so it seems…

From stunning resurrections to soul-crushing manipulations, the MCU has presented fans with the best and worst fakeout deaths throughout the years.

Join us as we explore the top three best (and two of the worst) instances where the MCU masterfully toyed with our emotions through cleverly orchestrated fakeout deaths!

But before we embark on this thrilling journey, let’s clarify what precisely a fakeout death is…

What is a fakeout death?

In the realm of superhero cinema, a fakeout death is a narrative technique that tricks audiences into believing that a beloved character has met their untimely demise. Just when tears start flowing and hearts ache with grief, the veil is lifted, revealing that the character is alive and well, leaving viewers both relieved and exhilarated.

These cunningly devised twists tug at our heartstrings, making us question our own emotions as we are taken on a whirlwind of suspense and revelation.

Nonetheless, the response to fakeout deaths is not without its mixed reaction. While the use of them can infuse excitement and surprise into a story, excessive or poorly executed fakeouts risk diminishing the impact of genuine character deaths and may undermine the emotional investment of the audience.

Now that we’re well-versed in the art of fakeout deaths, get ready to relive the moments that left us gasping, cheering, and occasionally shaking our heads in disbelief, as we unveil the three best and three worst instances of this captivating narrative device within the MCU.