Introduction to the Marvel Cinematic Universe

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is a complex web of interconnected films and series, each crucial to the overarching narrative. Thor: Ragnarok and Ant-Man and the Wasp are two of these key films, released in 2017, during a pivotal period in the MCU's history. Understanding their release sequence and the timeline they operate within is essential for fans and casual viewers alike.

Timeline of the MCU and Film Release Order

The timeline of the MCU is detailed, with each movie contributing to the larger narrative. In the year 2017, Ant-Man and the Wasp and Thor: Ragnarok made their mark. While these films share a common time period within the MCU, their specific sequencing is important to navigate.

Ant-Man and the Wasp: The Post-Credits Snaps and Beyond

Ant-Man and the Wasp was released on July 6, 2018. Immediately following the post-credits scene of this film, the Infinity War snap occurs. Peter Quill, also known as Star-Lord, is one of those affected by the snap, and his fate is left unresolved until Endgame addresses it in the aftermath.

Thor: Ragnarok: The Immediate Predecessor to Infinity War

Thor: Ragnarok, released on November 3, 2017, is set to occur a week or a few days before the events of Infinity War. This makes it a critical film for setting up the narrative arcs of Asgard and the other realms within the MCU.

Post-Snap Timeline: Comparing Ant-Man and the Wasp and Thor: Ragnarok

While both films take place in 2017, they are separated by a significant number of months. Thor: Ragnarok, set in 2017, is the closer predecessor to the poignant moments in Infinity War, whereas Ant-Man and the Wasp picks up a few months later in the 2017 timeline. This difference is crucial for understanding the flow of the story.

Impact on the Overall Storyline

Both films contribute to the ongoing story of the MCU, but they serve different narrative functions. Thor: Ragnarok focuses on the destruction of Asgard and Loki's escape, while Ant-Man and the Wasp deals with the Quantum Realm and the potential threats that arise from it. Their release order ensures that the audience is prepared for the battles and alliances that would unfold in the broader universe.

Conclusion: Understanding the Sequences in MCU Films

The distinction between the release of Ant-Man and the Wasp and Thor: Ragnarok and their placement within the timeline of the MCU is vital. These films are not just standalone stories but form key parts of the overarching narrative. Understanding the sequence and the time frames of these films helps in grasping the complex universe they exist in and the events that connect them.