Envisioning the Next Epic Stages of the Marvel Cinematic Universe

The Avengers: Endgame era has brought numerous wonders and heart-wrenching moments. However, as the dust settles on the heroes, the door is wide open for their successors to take center stage. This article delves into possible plotlines for Thor 4, Captain America 4, and Iron Man 4, based on predictions and hopes for the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Thor 4: A Tale of Refugee Kingship

Avengers: Endgame sets the stage for Thor 4, a movie that could be the most powerful story in today’s world. According to the ending of Avengers 4, Thor is in space with the living Asgardians. Steve Rogers and Tony Stark are deceased.

The Refugee Nation of Asgard

Thor's journey in Thor 4 begins with him learning to be king of a nation made entirely of refugees. The end of Ragnarok revealed that Thor's plan is to bring the Asgardians to Earth. While Thor is a beloved hero, the leaders of Earth are not comfortable with thousands of super-powered beings taking up residence. Some countries want to turn the Asgardians into super-soldiers, while others wish them gone.

Thor's struggle will be to create a peaceful place for his people on Earth. Valkyrie, as the next great warrior of Asgard, will also need to be developed beyond just a love interest. By the end of the movie, Thor should shift towards a kingly role, akin to Odin in the first two films. The next solo film about an Asgardian should be titled Valkyrie.

Captain America 4: Leadership with a Troubled Past

Captain America 4 is a promise of hope, even without Steve Rogers. Bucky Barnes will take up the shield and become the next Captain America. This movie is about his journey to become a leader, with the core team consisting of Falcon, War Machine, and Scarlet Witch.

Leadership and Legacy

Bucky will struggle with his role, constantly doubting his decisions and wondering how Steve would have handled similar situations. He will question his right to wear the suit due to his troubled past. A pep talk from a retired Black Widow, who understands dark pasts, will be the turning point. Bucky will eventually find his own leadership style and become the Captain America the team needs.

Iron Man 4: The Journey of Shuri

Producing Iron Man 4 seems unlikely, with Marvel favoring Hank Pym (Ant-Man) and Ohm-Pym Tech experiments. However, I believe Ant-Man should remain in a self-contained story. So, let's consider Iron Man 4 with Shuri as the new Iron Man.

A Woman of Great Responsibility

Shuri's journey in Iron Man 4 is one of growth and responsibility. She starts as an arrogant genius who wants to fight, but must understand the burden of responsibility. Let her face a challenge that causes others to suffer, and then rise above it to become a true hero worthy of the Gold and Red of Iron Man.

The Future of the MCU

Phase 4 of the MCU can be seen as a transitional phase. We need to introduce a new generation of heroes. Although these characters are somewhat established, transforming them into solo film stars is a significant step. Spider-Man, Black Panther, and Doctor Strange already prove they can stand alone and are ready to move to the franchise pillar status.

With these new heroes taking charge, the future of the MCU looks both exciting and filled with potential. The stories of Thor, Captain America, and Iron Man are not just continuations; they are reflections of the broader narrative of a world in transition, finding new heroes to lead the fight against darkness.