Avengers Gloves and the Mysteries of the Infinity Gauntlet

One question that often arises among fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is: why did the Avengers use one of Tony’s gloves for Hulk’s Snap when they had access to the original gauntlet after cutting off Thanos’ hand? After all, it would have been more effective and less harmful to Banner or Stark. This article delves into the intricate details to provide an in-depth answer, exploring the history and logistics of the gloves and gauntlets within the MCU.

The First Snap and the Gauntlet's Disappearance

Thanos initiated his first snap on the planet after he embedded his sword, Stormbreaker, into his chest/shoulder during a pivotal battle. Following this, he teleported to his hidden planet, where he snapped the Infinity Gauntlet, along with the Infinity Stones, out of existence. Thanos, nearly killed by the snap, was then faced with the Avengers, who ultimately cut his head off. It's important to note that this was a major event that initiated a long chain of subsequent battles and events.

The Availability of the Original Gauntlet

Despite the Avengers' possession of the original gauntlet post-Avengers: Endgame, they chose to use one of Tony Stark’s glove-like gadgets for Hulk's Snap. This raises several intriguing questions. The original gauntlet, one designed for the job, might have been locked on Thanos' ship, Sanctuary II, which was later destroyed by Carol Danvers (Captain Marvel).

The Gloves and Their Adaptability

The gloves used in the MCU seem to be a mix of existing and new versions. For instance, the "Tony gloves" seen in the final battle were specifically designed to snap the disappeared entities from their five-year non-existence. Another similar glove was later taken by the new Nebula and recovered by the new Gamora, both of whom were still with Peter Quill. This glove was adaptable to the size and needs of the wearer, thanks to nanite technology originally programmed by Tony Stark.

The original gauntlet, forged on Nidavellir prior to Thor: Ragnarok, was part of Thor's armory. It was Thanos who claimed, before the Battle of Wakanda, that he would forge his own gauntlet. The original gauntlet was, in fact, adaptable to the user's size, as seen when it fit Thanos perfectly.

Other Infinity Gauntlet Copies and Their Significance

There was another Infinity Gauntlet in Odin’s vault, claimed to be a "fake" by Hela, Thor's first daughter. This gauntlet was likely made to prevent people from searching for the stones by cementing the idea that Odin was protecting the galaxy. This concept extends to the mythological beliefs of the Asgardians and their desire to keep the cosmic balance.

The dwarven forge at Nidavellir created the gauntlets for both Thor and Thanos, but the one in Odin's vault may have been more symbolic than practical. It served to reinforce the idea that Odin was the true protector, which is a common theme in Asgardian mythology. However, Thanos, who had his own reasons for seeking the gauntlet, was ultimately more interested in controlling the power than respecting the myths.

The Lack of Cutting Off Thanos' Arm

It's important to clarify that there was no actual "cutting off" of Thanos' arm post-snap. The assumed origin of the gauntlet was a creative choice by Marvel/Disney Studios, possibly due to a technical issue with the CGI. This changed in Avengers: Endgame when the processing errors led to a more plausible and visually accurate gauntlet. The modifications in the film could be due to a software design or timing issue, often referred to as a "head-space-and-timing" problem in the filmmaking industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision by the Avengers to use one of Tony Stark's gloves instead of the original gauntlet was likely due to logistical reasons and creative limitations at the time of filming. The adaptations and adaptability of the gauntlets, as well as the presence of other copies, add layers of complexity to the overall narrative of the MCU.

Understanding these details provides a richer appreciation for the intricacies of the MCU, highlighting the collaborative and often technical nature of filmmaking and storytelling in this expansive universe.