10 best MCU movies of all-time, ranked

8. Doctor Strange (2016)

Landing at number 8 is Doctor Strange, a movie that opened the doors to the mystic and the mind-bending within the Marvel universe. Benedict Cumberbatch's on-point portrayal of the egotistical neurosurgeon turned Sorcerer Supreme is nothing short of mesmerizing. His journey from a man of science to a master of the mystic arts is pretty compelling and intriguing. The film's real magic, however, lies in its groundbreaking visual effects.

The kaleidoscopic cityscapes, the bending of time and space, and the astral plane sequences are like a psychedelic trip. These visuals not only set a new standard for special effects in superhero movies but also significantly expanded the storytelling scope of the MCU. Doctor Strange introduced concepts like the multiverse and alternate dimensions, adding layers of complexity and infinite possibilities for future stories. This was both a risk and an opportunity, offering a fresh and exciting perspective on what a superhero film can be.

But Doctor Strange finds itself in the 8th spot for a few reasons that keep it from soaring higher. Despite Cumberbatch's stellar performance, the movie kind of falls flat when it comes to its use of the antagonist. Mads Mikkelsen's Kaecilius, while portrayed by an actor of remarkable talent, falls into the category of "completely forgettable MCU villains." His motives and development feel undercooked, leaving us wanting more from a character who had the potential to be as captivating as Strange himself.

Also, the casting of Tilda Swinton as The Ancient One sparked controversy and discussions about cultural representation and whitewashing in Hollywood. While Swinton delivers a strong performance, some feel this casting choice took away from the movie's otherwise progressive and boundary-pushing narrative.